The choice of using first, second, or third-person perspectives in any kind of literary writing, whether it be fiction or non-fiction, is dependent on the author's intent and the goals of the piece. There are distinctions between academic and non-academic writing that influence a writer's decision to use these perspectives for presenting viewpoints.
Firstly, employing the first-person perspective enables the author to share personal opinions with the audience, creating an intimate connection with them. The issue arises in academic contexts, where the first-person voice tends to be very subjective. Academic writing, particularly essays, must present ideas not as personal thoughts, but as broader viewpoints to be taken seriously.
Conversely, the third-person narrative promotes a sense of objectivity, as it presents information as factual and verifiable rather than grounded solely in the writer's thoughts. However, solely relying on this perspective can render the work too clinical, limiting the reader's connection to the author and the material.
This is why integrating both first and third-person voices enriches Cooper's essay; it allows readers to experience both closeness to the author's feelings and the assurance of factual accuracy. Cooper balances personal expression with verifiable evidence, presenting her arguments in a more relatable and accessible manner.
