Purpose and direction are crucial to any piece of writing, acting as a map for the reader and a beacon for the creator. In this analysis, we dissect a book's overarching goals and purposes, getting to the bottom of what it's all about. Every book, whether fictional or nonfictional, leaves its own distinctive mark on the reader by spinning a tale that reveals the author's goals and invites more thought and discussion.
A book's purpose can only be grasped by answering the question "why." Why did the writer bother spending effort, imagination, and time on this piece of writing? It is not uncommon for a book's ultimate goal to extend beyond the story itself, into areas such as social commentary, introspective self-discovery, or educational outreach. It is the bedrock upon which the rest of the book is built.
In works of fiction, the objective may be to entertain, encourage thought, or question societal standards. Novels typically address the human condition, allowing readers a lens through which to view their own lives and experiences. In contrast, nonfiction works often aim to achieve something specific, like inform, advocate, or record.
Understanding Objectives: Objectives, in the context of a book, are the exact points the author hopes to reach during the story. These objectives serve as stepping stones in realizing the bigger picture. Character growth and plot advancement in fiction, and the presenting of evidence and reasoning in non-fiction, are just two examples.
The objectives of a fictional work may center on the growth of its characters, the resolution of its conflicts, or the investigation of its themes. A coming-of-age novel, for instance, may set out to show the protagonist's development and realization of who they are. The purpose of a non-fiction piece might range from merely informing the reader to convincing them to change their minds or even taking some sort of action.
