Profile piece

Definition

A profile piece is a type of feature story that provides an in-depth look at a person, often exploring their background, achievements, and personal experiences. These stories focus on revealing the character and personality of the subject, connecting readers to the individual's journey, motivations, and impact within a specific context. Profile pieces require extensive research and interviews, allowing the storyteller to craft a narrative that is both informative and engaging.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A profile piece often includes quotes from the subject and those who know them, providing various perspectives on their life and accomplishments.
2. Effective profile pieces are structured to create a narrative flow, typically starting with a strong hook to grab readers' attention.
3. In-depth research is crucial for a profile piece, as it helps to uncover details about the subject's life that may not be publicly known.
4. These stories can be used to highlight inspirational figures in sports, showcasing not only their athletic abilities but also their personal stories.
5. Profile pieces often reflect broader themes or issues in society by illustrating how an individual's experiences relate to larger trends or challenges.

Review Questions

• How does a profile piece differ from other types of feature stories in terms of focus and content?
  • A profile piece specifically centers on an individual, delving into their life experiences, motivations, and personality. Unlike other feature stories that might cover events or broader topics, profile pieces provide intimate insights into one person's journey. This focus on character development allows readers to connect more deeply with the subject, making it unique in its narrative style and emotional engagement.
• What elements should be included in a compelling profile piece to ensure it resonates with readers?
  • To create a compelling profile piece, it's important to include engaging anecdotes that showcase the subject's personality, relevant quotes from interviews that provide authenticity, and details that illustrate their achievements and struggles. A strong narrative arc helps maintain reader interest by guiding them through the subject's life in a way that's relatable and impactful. Additionally, connecting the individual's story to broader themes enhances its significance and relevance.
• Evaluate how effective research contributes to the overall quality of a profile piece and its storytelling potential.
  • Effective research is fundamental to crafting a high-quality profile piece because it uncovers unique details and insights that enrich the narrative. This depth of understanding allows the storyteller to present a well-rounded view of the subject, highlighting both their public persona and private challenges. By integrating well-researched information with personal interviews, the story gains authenticity and credibility. Ultimately, this thorough groundwork enhances storytelling potential by allowing for nuanced exploration of themes that resonate with readers on multiple levels.

Related terms

Feature Story: A longer narrative that focuses on a person, event, or issue, offering depth and detail beyond standard news reporting.

Human Interest: Stories that evoke emotional responses by focusing on the experiences and struggles of individuals or communities.

Narrative Arc: The structured progression of a story, including the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.