What is the significance of the title in a work of literature and how do we define the author's purpose?

It is a
fact that many writers add a title to their work AFTER they have finished it. This can have
advantages and disadvantages.

Knowing the title of the proposed piece of
literature BEFORE he or she starts can help keep the author focused and prevent rambling
sentences. Adding a title at the end can ensure that the work is aptly named and the name
reflects the content. Either way, a lot of consideration is required before naming a literature
piece.

Despite the cliche that a person must not judge a book by its cover, a
reader when faced with shelves of books will often scan those shelves for a title that appeals
to him making the title the difference between a book at least being considered and being
rejected outright.

The author's purpose also needs consideration when
choosing a title because the purpose will be lost if the author cannot attract the target
audience for which his book was intended. The author's intention is the main emphasis in
revealing his purpose.

Titles can also encourage readers and

• uninspiring topics can be energized and readers may tackle the subject
  because they are drawn to the title.
• an author who
  shows creativity in the choice of a title also encourages readers to research other books of the
  same author
• ensuring that the message is conveyed
  starts with the title.
• a good title can set the mood from the onset and
  establishes a theme.

It is essential therefore to give great
consideration to the title of any piece of writing.