Assignment #11

Question: What does the composer assume the audience knows or believes?

I think that Stein assumes that the audience knows the basics of computers, the Super Bowl and advertisements. I do not know if this article could exist without this basic knowledge of these subjects. Stein starts out the article with this quote: "...it was a defining moment, not only of the heralded computer revolution but also of what has become out media landscape..." (Stein 279). I think that is is a writerly choice of sorts because an author must assume that the audience has some basic knowledge of everyday items.

Question: When is an audience likely to encounter the text? How might this shape their responses?

The audience is mostly likely to encounter this article in an academic setting. I think especially on research into computers and/or advertising. There really is no specific example that fits in my opinion. I think this hurts Stein though because most of my classmates were confused on the wording and how it is very dry.

Question: How does the composer end? How will the end affect how the audience looks back on the rest of the composition?

Stein ends like an academic would, with a conclusion. I think she attempts to sum up her argument, but I think she leaves the audience more confused than satisfied. For example: "This analysis has suggested that in understanding the rhetorical constitution of the audience through ideological codes used to construct the narrative we can begin to fathom how commodity techno-discourses work in our lives" (Stein 299). I am confused typing it out!!

I think that Stein is an amazing writer, but her attention to such detail leaves the audience so confused that it makes no sense. It has been over a month with this article and I do not think that I still fully understand it! I keep trying, but it does not seem that it will happen anytime soon. I think this is why I have chosen to keep this essay out of my portfolio.