HOW TO ACHIEVE PERSUASION IN WRITTEN TEXTS THROUGH INTERPERSONAL MARKERS

Interpersonal markers are an important tool when writing, especially in genres that aim at persuading the reader. These markers establish a relationship between writer and reader, although they may not be part of the propositional content of the text. This is why they are also called metadiscursive markers. More specifically, it is the writer who decides which markers to use and when, in order to influence the reader, either directly (addressing her/him through personal pronouns or verbs in the imperative –directives-) or indirectly, using adjectives, adverbs or expressions that show her/his attitude or opinion about the topic which is being dealt with. The ultimate purpose is, as stated above, to influence the reader in different ways:  by modulating and not imposing ideas, suggesting or showing solidarity, giving opinions, etc. There are different types of markers, each having its own function. Interpersonal markers are never nouns, although they can be verbs, adjectives or adverbs.