Effective Non-Fiction

     In my opinion, good non-fiction carries two main aspects which set it a level above other works. Clear organizational structure, and engaging or relatable writing. The structure of non-fiction plays a more  important role than in fiction due to a certain lack of narrative. In fiction, the structure, although still important, can tend to take a backseat as the story provides a time-frame for events. In non-fiction, the organization of topics, as well as the presentation of the timeline, provide the basis for understanding what the author is writing about. In an article from the New Yorker, authors Raghu Karnad and Anmol Tikoo describe recent tensions over the border between China and India. The strength of this article can be sourced to its organization. Although describing a complex topic, the reader can casually and easily interpret their writing through each paragraph, gaining more information while slowly building an understanding. Beginning with an anecdote-like recalling of a interaction that took place at the border early on, the authors move up to present day and explain the current situations. By easing the reader into the subject, it simplifies a difficult political position. Reader engagement is also extremely important in non-fiction. If the audience disengages, they will lose the concept that the author is trying to convey. Forms such as relatability and vividness keep the reader engaged while also keeping sight of the author's point. In an article by Lex Pryor for The Ringer, Pryor conveys the importance of Juneteenth through the rapper Kenrick Lamar, keeping the reader's attention through a relatable, recent topic. With the implementation of these tactics, non-fiction is an effective, interesting way to display information.

Image: Newspaper; Source: Pixabay