Ann M Penrose
“Reading and Writing Without Authority“, by Ann M Penrose and Cheryl Geisler touches on the concept of authority in writing and how it can be redefined. A natural study is done between someone completing their doctoral work in philosophy, Roger, and a college freshman named Janet. Janet was not as confident in her field and was almost submissive. On the other hand, Roger displayed confidence and showed experience in the field. Enough that he would challenge others in his writing. Janet would make mistakes in her writing that Roger knew to avoid showing the veteran confidence and authority. Through this Roger found his identity in his writing.
Elizabeth Wardle
In Elizabeth Wardle’s essay, “Identity, Authority, and Learning to Write in New Workplaces” she explains her idea that one should change their writing style based on the environment. In the article it states, “Wardle explains that the ideas of individuals and the expectations of the culture in any new environment will almost certainly differ”. (para 3) She believes there should be a balance between personal ideas and what is expected of the writer. With this balance, the more authority the person will have work is stronger unlike those with less authority will be expected to conform more in their writing which makes it weaker.
Both articles illustrate why it is important to have confidence and authority when writing. This shows with practice, for example like Roger, one can become a dominant writer. The confidence will develop over and mistakes will be made, but this will help bring the authority aspect in writing with the right balance and help the writer find their identity.
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