Profile pieces

Definition

Profile pieces are in-depth articles that focus on a person, capturing their personality, experiences, and achievements through engaging storytelling. These pieces often blend information with a narrative style, creating a captivating read that both informs and entertains the audience about the subject's life and impact.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Profile pieces typically include anecdotes and quotes from the subject to bring their story to life and make it relatable for readers.
2. These articles often require extensive research to gather background information about the subject's life and work, ensuring an accurate portrayal.
3. Strong profile pieces strike a balance between being informative and entertaining, using storytelling techniques to keep readers engaged.
4. They often highlight not just achievements but also personal challenges and how these have shaped the subject's journey.
5. Effective profile writing usually focuses on creating a vivid image of the subject, allowing readers to feel a connection with them.

Review Questions

• How do profile pieces balance information and entertainment while providing insights into the subject's life?
  • Profile pieces balance information and entertainment by weaving factual details about the subject's life with engaging narratives that capture their personality. By using storytelling techniques such as anecdotes and direct quotes, these articles allow readers to connect emotionally with the subject while also learning about their achievements and challenges. This combination keeps readers interested while providing a comprehensive understanding of the individual's impact and journey.
• What narrative techniques can be employed in profile pieces to enhance reader engagement?
  • Narrative techniques such as anecdotal storytelling, descriptive language, and character development can significantly enhance reader engagement in profile pieces. By starting with an interesting anecdote or moment from the subject's life, writers can draw readers in right away. Additionally, using vivid descriptions helps create a mental image of the subject, while exploring their motivations and emotions adds depth to their character, making the piece both informative and compelling.
• Evaluate how the use of interviews contributes to the depth and authenticity of profile pieces.
  • Interviews are crucial for adding depth and authenticity to profile pieces as they provide firsthand accounts from the subject. By including direct quotes and personal anecdotes shared during interviews, writers can present an accurate portrayal of the individual’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This insider perspective enriches the narrative, allowing readers to understand not just what happened but also why it mattered to the subject. Consequently, interviews help bridge the gap between factual information and personal story, enhancing both credibility and engagement.

Related terms

Feature article: A longer, more detailed piece of writing that explores a specific topic, person, or event, often using narrative techniques to engage readers.

Character sketch: A brief description that highlights the distinctive traits and qualities of a person, often used in profile pieces to give readers insight into the subject's personality.

Interview: A conversation between a journalist and a subject where questions are asked to elicit information, which can be integral to creating profile pieces.