Reflection in writing serves to express personal development, connect with universal themes, and engage readers deeply. Literary elements aid this reflective process, enriching the narrative with nuanced thematic exploration. The result is an intertwined experience between author and reader.
The author uses reflection in writing to introspect and express personal development, connect past experiences to larger, universal themes, and engage the reader in a deeper, more meaningful way. Reflection allows the author to demonstrate a clear purpose, creating a bridge between narrative and insightful contemplation.
In Mark Twain's example, he uses reflection to share a universal lesson, one that is relatable and from which readers can learn. Similarly, Sandra Cisneros uses reflection to give her mind time to make connections and write authentically, while Dale Trumbore reflects on personal experiences to create resonance with her readers.
Writers can employ various strategies to generate reflective writing, which may include the use of literary elements like imagery or figurative language, which help develop the theme or convey a message in a more nuanced way. The process of reflection in writing serves multiple purposes: it aids in character development, deepens thematic exploration, and allows both writer and reader to draw parallels between the literature and their own personal journey.