Aspects of writing and identity

This text is the result of reflections that originated in the discussions of a study group composed of undergraduate and postgraduate students in a language lab at a public university in the interior of the state of Paraná, in the south of Brazil. This study specifically addresses some considerations about the connections that can be established between written language and identity based on the work of Harris, 1995, Austin, 1962, Moita Lopes and Cabral Bastos, 2010, Rajagopalan, 2003, Rajagopalan, 2010 and Olson, 1997 and Bauman (2005). In order to do so I utilise data derived from study group discussions in order to reflect on aspects of identity that derive from beliefs that overlook the aspect of performativity inherent in writing. I conclude that writing and identity are not pre-formulated, they are both in a constant process of construction and the integrationist approach is an important element in the effort to better understand this complexity and broaden the view of the interrelationship between writing and identity.

► The paper explores the connections that can be established between written language and identity. ► I utilise data derived from study group discussions of Signs of Writing and Rethinking Writing. ► Writing can either be a factor for social inclusion or exclusion. ► The integrationist approach aids in understanding this complexity.