The new journalism

Definition

The new journalism is a style of writing that emerged in the late 20th century, blending traditional journalistic reporting with literary techniques to create more immersive and engaging narratives. It emphasizes storytelling, character development, and a subjective point of view, allowing journalists to capture the complexities of real-life events in a compelling way. This approach has greatly influenced how journalism is taught and practiced, focusing on the importance of narrative in informing and engaging audiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The new journalism gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, with writers like Tom Wolfe and Truman Capote pushing the boundaries of traditional reporting.
2. This style allows for greater emotional engagement with readers by presenting stories through a subjective lens rather than just objective facts.
3. Courses in journalism education began to incorporate the principles of the new journalism, emphasizing storytelling techniques alongside traditional reporting skills.
4. The rise of the new journalism coincided with major social changes and movements, reflecting the complexities of issues like civil rights and counterculture.
5. Critics of the new journalism argue that its subjective nature can compromise journalistic integrity, leading to questions about truth and accuracy.

Review Questions

• How did the new journalism influence the way storytelling is approached in journalism education?
  • The new journalism has significantly influenced journalism education by incorporating narrative techniques into the curriculum. Students are now taught to engage readers through compelling storytelling, using character development and emotional resonance to connect with their audience. This shift reflects a broader understanding that effective reporting goes beyond just relaying facts; it involves crafting narratives that capture the essence of real-life events.
• Discuss the impact of social movements on the development of the new journalism in the late 20th century.
  • Social movements in the late 20th century, such as civil rights and anti-war protests, had a profound impact on the development of the new journalism. Journalists began using narrative techniques to convey not just events but also the emotional weight and human experiences behind these movements. This shift allowed for a deeper exploration of societal issues, reflecting complex realities and offering readers a more immersive understanding of ongoing struggles.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of incorporating literary techniques in journalism as seen in the new journalism movement.
  • Incorporating literary techniques into journalism raises significant ethical implications regarding truth and representation. While the new journalism aims to enhance reader engagement through narrative, it can blur the lines between objective reporting and subjective interpretation. This blending risks distorting facts for dramatic effect, which poses challenges for maintaining journalistic integrity. Evaluating these ethical considerations is essential for balancing creative storytelling with factual accuracy in modern journalism.

Related terms

Literary Journalism: A style of journalism that uses fictional techniques to tell true stories, emphasizing narrative structure and character development.

Immersion Journalism: A reporting style where journalists deeply engage with their subjects and settings, often becoming part of the story to provide a first-person perspective.

Gonzo Journalism: A form of journalism that blends facts with fiction and often includes the journalist as an active participant in the story, popularized by Hunter S. Thompson.