Understanding
My task, which I am trying to achieve is, by the power of the written word, to make you hear, to make you feel—it is, before all, to make you see. (Joseph Conrad, late Polish-British novelist)
Writers may express what they hope their work will achieve in a variety of ways. Some use explicit, emotional language to develop strong feelings from the story line. Conrad says his overall purpose is to help his readers “see” something. Whether it’s an argument, a cause, or a simple truth, he’s hoping to bring a new understanding to the reader’s mind.
Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart (Psalm 119:34). To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. (Matthew 13:12)