Before Writing: Rethinking the Paths to Literacy : Book Review

"Before Writing" by Gunther Kress dives deep into the cognitive and cultural implications of writing, exploring how it has shaped our society and influenced our thinking processes. Kress's book examines the historical development of writing systems and their impact on language, communication, and knowledge acquisition.

One of the main arguments in the book is that writing not only reflects our thinking processes but also plays a significant role in shaping them. Kress emphasizes how writing systems have shaped our understanding of time, space, and information dissemination across generations and geographical boundaries. He also discusses how certain writing systems have become associated with power and privilege, further perpetuating social hierarchies.

Kress challenges the conventional definition of literacy as the ability to read and write alphabetic texts. He expands it to include multimodal literacy, which involves actively engaging with various forms of communication such as images, sound, and video. With the advent of the digital age, Kress argues that our understanding of literacy needs to evolve to encompass these changing modes of expression.

The book also addresses the impact of digital technologies on writing and communication. Kress explores how the internet and digital media have transformed our writing practices, enabling new forms of collaboration and knowledge sharing. He encourages readers to critically evaluate the affordances and limitations of digital technologies and their impact on literacy practices.

Overall, "Before Writing" offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical, cognitive, and cultural dimensions of writing. By challenging traditional views of literacy, Kress prompts readers to expand their understanding of communication and critically analyze the role of writing in shaping our thoughts, actions, and social structures. This thought-provoking book is a valuable resource for those interested in the profound influence writing has had on human societies and its continued relevance in an increasingly digital world.

What are readers saying?

Gunther Kress' book, "Before Writing: Rethinking the Paths to Literacy," has received a mix of positive and negative reviews. Some readers found it to be a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the history and evolution of writing systems. They appreciated Kress' meticulous research and ability to challenge common assumptions about writing. These readers found the book to be stimulating and enlightening, offering new perspectives on the development of writing as a form of communication.

On the other hand, a significant number of reviewers struggled with the book's complex concepts and dense academic style. They found the language and ideas difficult to grasp, making it challenging to fully engage with the material. Some felt that Kress could have presented the information in a more accessible manner, with clearer explanations and examples.

In addition, a few reviewers criticized the book for being repetitive. They believed that Kress reiterated his main points throughout the book, leading to a lack of progress and a feeling of monotony. These readers suggested that the book could have been more concise and streamlined without sacrificing its core message.

However, despite the criticisms, many readers still appreciated the thought-provoking nature of the book and the way it challenged their preconceived notions about writing. They recognized the value of Kress' research and insights, even if the presentation could have been improved.

In summary, Gunther Kress' book, "Before Writing: Rethinking the Paths to Literacy," has generated a range of reviews. While some readers found it fascinating and enlightening, others struggled with its dense academic style and repetitive nature. Overall, it seems to be a valuable resource for those interested in the history and cultural significance of writing, but may not be the most accessible read for all audiences.

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