How is an essay defined?

An essay is defined as a brief piece of writing that presents the author's own argument, analysis, or assessment on a specific subject. This definition captures the essence of what an essay typically entails: a focused exploration of a particular topic or idea, often characterized by a personal viewpoint and structured in a way that allows for clear communication.

Essays are not just long narratives about an individual's life, which would belong more to the genre of autobiography or memoir. They also differ from detailed reports on scientific findings, which are generally more technical and focused on data and methodology rather than personal perspective or argumentation. Additionally, a collection of poems discussing various themes falls into the realm of poetry rather than essay writing, as essays prioritize prose and argumentative structure rather than the artistic and often subjective nature of poetry. Therefore, identifying the essay as a brief piece of writing on a particular subject aligns perfectly with its typical structure and purpose.