Accounting for Subjectivity (Point of View)

Abstract

I discuss in this article some of the forms and interpretations usually covered by the phrase ‘point of view’. The term is used by linguists for expression of speech and thought, perspective, evidentiality, and other indications of an authorial voice. ‘Point of view’ is often used almost interchangeably with ‘viewpoint,’ ‘perspective,’ and ‘subjectivity’. This has led to considerable confusion. In what follows I will be concerned mainly with the notion as discussed by linguists, while recognizing that there is a strong literary tradition. I take it that all expressions of point of view are subjective, since they involve mind; I will use ‘subjective,’ and ‘subjectivity’ as general terms rather than ‘point of view.’