I needed a story. Something local, but juicy. And more…
““I needed a story. Something local, but juicy. And more than just newsworthy. I was holding out for gasp-worthy. And I found it. Or rather, it found me. Yup, your humble J-school grad was pretty much handed a tale that had it all: sex and drugs (not the regular kinds), multiple deaths (untimely, natch), rich folks and rituals and loads o' lawsuits- even a celebrity cherry on top. My newbie journo peers might be settling for three inches of coyotes in the subway, some spry centenarian's weightlifting regime or a bucket of campylobacter in the church supper salad, but I was planning to debut large and with oomph. The story was mine. I just had to figure out how to tell it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A compelling story requires sensational elements and personal drive.
In simple terms: Story needs edge.
Pursue bold narratives.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- newsrooms
- creative writing
- investigative reporting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes a story compelling?
- How to balance hype and integrity?
Sensationalism can sacrifice truth.