Assuming Quote by Edward Hirsch
“Books and newspapers assume a "common reader" that is, a person who knows the things known by other literate persons in the culture. Obviously, such assumptions are never identical from writer to writer, but they show a remarkable consistency”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, "The Common Reader", 2005
The quote highlights that writers presume a shared cultural knowledge among readers, but this presumed commonality varies between authors, yet remains surprisingly consistent across works.
In simple terms: Writers assume readers share cultural knowledge, but this varies and stays consistent.
Key Takeaway
Recognize differing assumptions and clarify context for readers.
Themes
communication
culture
reading
assumptions
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
observational
critical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- editing
- publishing
- marketing
- cross‑cultural communication
Key Concepts
cultural literacy
authorial perspective
reader expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you identify gaps in shared knowledge?
- What strategies can bridge cultural assumptions?
A Different Perspective
Assuming a common reader can alienate those outside the dominant culture.
