Exigence

The Big "Why" - Understanding Exigence

Exigence, simply put, is the "why" behind any form of writing or speech. It's the spark that ignites the need to communicate. Think of it like a problem that needs solving or a situation that needs addressing.

In everyday life, "exigence" usually means something urgent, like an emergency. In writing, it might not be that intense, but it's still the driving force behind the message.

Examples:

• The Spark: You get an invitation to a friend's graduation party.

• The Exigence: You feel the need to write a note to say congrats!

• The Spark: You bomb a test.

• The Exigence: You email your teacher to ask about extra credit or help.

• The Spark: A student acts out in class.

• The Exigence: The teacher calls the parents to talk about the behavior.

• The Spark: Your school board makes a big change to the grading system.

• The Exigence: You feel strongly about it and decide to write a letter or even speak up at a board meeting.

Exigence is the reason behind any written or spoken response. It's the "why" we write or speak.

Remember: The exigence is the part of a rhetorical situation that inspires, stimulates, provokes, or prompts writers to create a text. 

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