What does the term purpose in writing refer to?

The term "purpose" in writing primarily refers to the intention or reason behind why the author creates a particular piece. This encompasses the author's goals in communicating a message, persuading an audience, enlightening readers, or conveying a story. Understanding an author’s purpose is crucial for interpreting the text effectively, as it shapes the content, tone, and style of the writing.

In contrast, focusing on other aspects such as the structure of the argument, the clarity of ideas, or the techniques used for citations does not directly address the underlying motive that drives the writing. These elements are important to the overall quality and effectiveness of a piece, but they do not encapsulate what is meant by "purpose" in a literary context.