Journal 4

            Genre gives the reader some direction and expectations. In a way, genre gives the person experiencing the text some sort of map of what to expect. Devitt sees genre as layered meanings that come together to give the reader an understanding of the whole. Miller sees genre as something that is constantly evolving and that kairos should be taken into consideration when discussing genre. Both are valid points but it must be understood that both seem more focused on navigating genre as a reader rather than a creator.

            Genre may not factor in at all for those composing the artifact. Creators may just create and be satisfied with that creation. Without giving it much thought, a creator may have been boxed into a genre since anything and everything can be a genre. However genre may come into play when composing in order to build a greater meaning. Using Miller’s use of kairos when looking at genre, every decision made while creating is another layer building to the sum total of that artifact.   

But for me genre is more for the audience. It allows those experiencing the artifact a better understanding of what they are seeing or hearing or reading. It’s less scary that way and creates clarity. Audiences even created sub genres when a broad genre didn’t quiet explain everything. Devitt explains this a little better by breaking down the genres of an apology. Going down a very specific list of genres that make up the phrase “I’m sorry”. Audience members who can decipher these subgenres understanding an overall meaning. An overall meaning the creator may not have intended. It all comes down to interpretations and preferences. There is no rulebook for genres; they merely exist for the sake of understanding.

Genre affects circulation and distribution when deciding how to present the work. For example, if the work can only be presented online then any creative decision at that point affects who sees it and how it is passed along. Whichever decision is most affective and true to your work will create the genre and therefore how it is received and understood.