New journalism

Definition

New journalism is a style of reporting that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, combining traditional journalistic practices with literary techniques to create immersive and engaging narratives. This approach emphasizes the journalist's perspective, rich character development, and vivid descriptions, blurring the lines between fact and fiction while maintaining journalistic integrity. It aims to capture the emotional truth of a story, allowing readers to connect deeply with the subject matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New journalism often includes extensive background research and interviews to create a detailed and accurate portrayal of events and characters.
2. This style gained popularity through works by journalists like Tom Wolfe and Truman Capote, who pushed the boundaries of traditional reporting.
3. New journalism uses techniques such as dialogue, scene setting, and detailed descriptions to engage readers more effectively than standard news articles.
4. The movement was partly a response to the social upheaval of the 1960s, as journalists sought to convey the complexities of human experience in a rapidly changing world.
5. Critics argue that new journalism can sometimes blur the line between objective reporting and subjective storytelling, raising questions about journalistic ethics.

Review Questions

• How does new journalism differ from traditional reporting techniques in terms of narrative structure?
  • New journalism differs from traditional reporting by incorporating literary techniques such as dialogue, detailed descriptions, and a strong narrative arc. While traditional reporting focuses on delivering facts in an objective manner, new journalism allows for a more immersive experience by focusing on character development and emotional truth. This approach transforms news stories into compelling narratives that draw readers in and evoke emotional responses.
• In what ways did the social context of the 1960s influence the development of new journalism?
  • The social context of the 1960s played a significant role in shaping new journalism, as journalists responded to the era's political turmoil, civil rights movements, and cultural shifts. The desire to capture the complexities of these changes led writers to explore deeper narratives that reflected real-life experiences rather than just facts. This shift towards a more immersive style aimed to convey not only what was happening but also how it felt for individuals involved in these transformative events.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of using literary techniques in new journalism. How can this impact public trust in journalistic reporting?
  • The use of literary techniques in new journalism raises important ethical considerations regarding accuracy and objectivity. While these techniques can enhance storytelling and engage readers, they may also blur the lines between fact and fiction. If audiences perceive journalistic narratives as too subjective or embellished, it could lead to skepticism about the reliability of news reports. Maintaining a balance between creative storytelling and factual integrity is crucial for preserving public trust in journalism.

Related terms

Immersion Journalism: A reporting style where journalists engage directly with their subjects, often living among them or participating in their experiences to provide a more authentic and in-depth narrative.

Narrative Nonfiction: A genre of writing that tells true stories using the techniques of fiction, including character development, plot structure, and scene setting.

Literary Journalism: A form of journalism that incorporates literary elements and storytelling techniques into the reporting process, emphasizing narrative and style.