Response to Montaigne’s “To The Reader”

In class we discussed the tensions of a personal essay such as egotism. I mentioned my discomfort with disclosing my personal thoughts because I feel egotistical and immodest. I truly appreciate Montaigne’s successful effort in relieving this tension by initially stating the purpose of his essay NOT to have a goal or influence. I also respect Montaigne’s use of the personal essay to disclose his flaws rather than embellish his accomplishments as a personal statement for an application might suggest.