Student Voice in Writing

My first-year composition students recently wrote essays  on their former experiences with “voice” in writing. Most of them, except a very small minority of scientifically oriented ones, value voice in writing and wish to express their voices themselves. One of them admitted that she had never thought of the concept of “voice” before joining my class; another asserted that though he is not passionate about writing, when he does write, he likes his writing to be an authentic reflection of his personality. He sees writing as a chance to express himself whatever the subject, including science. Most of the students cherished the few opportunities in high school when they were given a chance to express their personal opinions on literature or movies they were exposed to then. Many did not realize the importance of having a unique voice in writing till they reached university; they now see a strong voice as aiding in the establishment of firm bonds with readers. One student likened voice in writing to a stamp that makes one’s work unique and recognizable, emphasizing that a clear strong voice is important for standing out and expressing ideas without being a follower. Another referred to his voice as a power he possesses that he would like to develop further.

Some of my pupils complained that at school they were not taught to express themselves in writing, but rather to use an objective tone, stating facts and statistics along with others’ opinions to prove a point; one of them went as far as blaming it on the style of teaching in Lebanon. While they appreciated being taught to write in a scientific way, they would have preferred to write more freely, with more thought, as they put it. One student explained how writing helped him come out of his shell after having been shy; it helped change him from an introvert into a more expressive person while another said that he enjoyed expressing his voice even when texting. One girl said she kept a journal at home as her academic writing did not give her enough room to express her personality. A Palestinian refugee seemed happy that writing was helping him to proudly express his identity after having felt dehumanized, like an object. Many admitted that keeping their voice out of their writing was difficult, but they were sensitive to the audience, for example avoiding “hostility”, and trying not to sound sarcastic in disagreement, depending on the context. A pre-medical student regrets that her specialization does not require much voice in writing. Overall, most of my students believe that voice in writing is a powerful tool that should be developed, and that writing does not always have to be serious; it may even be a form of escape. All this, except for perhaps one pupil who believes that “an empty can is the loudest.” I wonder what my readers here think!