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You could say that any book that takes a position is not…

“You could say that any book that takes a position is not fair, unless you keep saying, 'On the one hand, on the other...' and take a great deal of trouble to present both sides. That kind of journalism tends not to be very interesting.” quote by Janet Malcolm
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“You could say that any book that takes a position is not fair, unless you keep saying, 'On the one hand, on the other...' and take a great deal of trouble to present both sides. That kind of journalism tends not to be very interesting.”

Janet Malcolm

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Journalism that tries to be perfectly balanced often becomes bland and unengaging.

In simple terms: Trying to show both sides equally can make stories dull.

Key Takeaway

Embrace a clear perspective.

Themes

journalism balance engagement

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

analytical reflective

When to use this quote

  • news reporting
  • editorial writing
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

media ethics storytelling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can a journalist stay fair without losing interest?
  • When is bias acceptable?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on neutrality can obscure truth.

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