Addressing the Reader: You, Us, One?

Does the reader need immersion or distance?

Do you write to influence opinions or behavior? If so, you might bring the reader into the conversation.

How do you address the reader? Do you:

• Use the pronoun you (as I did leading into this point)
• Aim for quaint or charming with dear reader?
• Get some distance with one (as one does)
• Put yourself in the same boat with we?

Often, this decision comes down to personal style or the conventions of your genre. You may even establish a habit. But don’t get too comfortable with your choices.

Consider what the reader needs for the specific situation.

The nouns or pronouns you select affects the reader’s inner experience.

• Do you want them to picture themselves as they read? Are you trying to pull them in?
• Do you want to form a stronger connection with the reader, getting them on your side?
• Would they benefit from a broader perspective on a personal situation?

There’s no single right answer. Use the right pronoun (or noun) for the job.

Close to you…