This is good advice for writers, something they hear again and again if only in their own heads. Generally "know your readers" is knowing in a general way. It's demographic information like level of education, income level and interest in fly fishing or devotion to macrame. Then there's psychographic information: the characteristics of an audience based in ideology, values, beliefs and attitudes.
I know my readers. I have their addresses and phone numbers. I've met their Catholic mothers. I know one dislikes chocolate and another won't eat anything green (except iceberg lettuce).
This level of "knowing" becomes an editing tool. A censor of sorts. I watch my language, I am careful that my blog is not too dark or personal. I stay on topic. Disturbing dreams that would make for very interesting reading are not revealed. And of course I watch my grammar, it's what you do when one of you most devoted readers in an English teacher.
Having devoted readers is very cool. Feeling that my son and I are cared about is even cooler. I really appreciate that you are there. Thanks Miss S and Aunt P.
It makes me wonder though. Are there any other readers? Am I writing this just for 2 people? If you read this blog with any regularity or are here for the first time please let me know, hit the comment link.
Happy Halloween
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