Chapter 2

Chapter two is about "closest cliche syndrome" and how many writers and readers are effected by this issue. "Closest cliche syndrome" is when a writer mistakes a cliche for the author's view. This is sometimes the result when the writer forms an opinion on something and assumes the author feels the same way they do. By assuming this, they unintentionally express their views and misjudge and advocate the author's views. I personally have experienced this as a writer. From time to time I will read an article, and based on my thoughts assume the author felt the same way, when realistically they didn't express their views at all. Another example, was a few weeks ago in my history class, when I was taking a test. One portion of the test consisted of our analysts on the view of a former representative on the way our government spends money. Not being very knowledgeable in anything history related I assumed the Representative conducting the speech was talking in a serious tone. A few days after taking the test my teacher called me aside and informed me that I got every single problem wrong in the section. He explained to me that the Representative was using a sarcastic tone and everything I stated was exactly the opposite of what I wrote down. Due to the fact that I missed the sarcasm in the writing, I assumed the Representative felt strongly one way, which was also the way I felt on the issue, when in fact he felt way different from the way I did. Therefore, my greatest advice is to never assume anything when it comes to reading, analyzing, or quoting an author.