Never look for the story in the 'lede.' Reporters are…
“Never look for the story in the 'lede.' Reporters are required to put what's happened up top, but the practiced pundit places a nugget of news, even a startling insight, halfway down the column, directed at the politiscenti. When pressed for time, the savvy reader starts there.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Journalists should lead with facts, not narrative hooks; readers often skip to the top for essential info.
In simple terms: Put facts first, not stories.
Prioritize key information.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- breaking news
- press releases
- media analysis
- editorial meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does placement affect story impact?
- Do you prefer facts or narrative first?
Readers may miss deeper insights placed later.