Arguing Quote by Adam Gopnik
“Good editorial writing has less to do with winning an argument, since the other side is mostly not listening, than with telling the guys on your side how they ought to sound when they’re arguing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Art of Editorial Writing", 2010
Effective editorials persuade by shaping allies’ arguments, not by confronting unlistening opponents.
In simple terms: Good editorials guide allies, not fight opponents.
Key Takeaway
Focus on persuasive framing for supporters.
Themes
communication
persuasion
media
strategy
politics
Mood
analytical
strategic
Type
journalistic
advice
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- brand messaging
- public relations
- activism
Key Concepts
rhetorical framing
audience analysis
message crafting
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you engage dissenting voices?
- What framing resonates with your base?
A Different Perspective
Opponents may still be ignored despite strategy.
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![“Leafing through Forbes or Fortune [magazine]s is like reading the operating manual of a strangely sanctimonious pirate ship” quote by Adam Gopnik](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dd5/adam-gopnik-6789_forbes_leafing-through-forbes-or-fortune-magazi_152931.jpg)
![“[A]s military history reveals, a bad plan is often better than no plan, especially if the people on the other side think it’s a good plan.” quote by Adam Gopnik](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f30/adam-gopnik-6789_bad-plans_a-s-military-history-reveals-a-bad-plan_477781.jpg)
