TYPES AND PURPOSES OF LITERARY TEXT
Fables are short stories that typically feature animals with human traits and convey a moral lesson.
The key characteristics of a fable include animals as characters, a simple plot, and a moral or lesson.
For example, the moral of "The Hare and The Tortoise" is that slow and steady wins the race, teaching
the value of perseverance over arrogance.
A novel (or novella), which belongs to the genre of philosophical fiction or allegory.
It includes elements of fantasy, reflections on human nature, relationships, and deep themes about
love, loss, and the meaning of life. It uses simple language but conveys profound ideas.
A short story from Philippine literature highlights Filipino traditions, the contrast between rural and
city life, and themes of acceptance, love, and cultural differences.
A poem has a simple structure with a deep meaning. The poem uses imagery from nature to express
the idea that all things beautiful and pure are temporary. It reflects themes of impermanence, change,
and the loss of innocence.
Purpose is the goal or aim of a piece of writing.
THREE MAJOR PURPOSES IN WRITING
P – ersuade
I – nform
E – ntertain
Persuade
To convince someone to agree with your point of view or to take specific action. It involves presenting
arguments to influence how they think or encourage them to reconsider their current stance and
consider your perspective.
Example: Imagine you're trying to convince your friend to eat healthily. You might say, "Eating more
fruits and vegetables will give you more energy and help you feel better every day." You're trying to
persuade your friend by showing how changing their diet will have positive effects.
Inform
To give someone information or knowledge. It involves explaining, clarifying, or educating the audience
about something they might not know or understand."
Example: Imagine you're telling a friend about a new park in your neighborhood. You might say, "The
new park has a playground, walking trails, and picnic areas." By sharing this information, you are
informing your friend about the park and what it offers.
Entertain
To create an enjoyable and captivating experience for the audience. It focuses on making people laugh,
cry, or feel emotions, rather than giving information. It stimulates their imagination and keeps them
engaged."
Example: Imagine you're watching a superhero movie where the hero saves the city from danger. The
action scenes, special effects, and dramatic storyline are all designed to entertain you by keeping you
excited and engaged throughout the movie.
Other examples
To persuade To inform To entertain
Speech Autobiography Short story
Blog (can also inform, Blog Legend
but often tries to News articles Poetry
persuade) Journal Fable
Editorial Diary entries Myth
Essay (depends on the Letters (informative in Drama
type, but many aim to some contexts) Screenplay
persuade) Essays (if informative
Advertising campaign or explanatory)
Posters
Letters (can be
persuasive depending on
the context)