Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Journalism- Is Long-Form Dying?

     I feel that long-form journalism will survive, however it will not be as popular or as commonly read. When someone is especially interested in a topic, they will take the time to read more in-depth information about it. There are times when it is necessary to uncover details and learn about something beyond a 140-word summary. However, I do realize that I find myself getting a little bored after a few pages of a long-form journalism article if it does not really, really draw me in. I find myself more interested in reading fiction when it comes to reading long peices.
     Especially in the case of investigative pieces, long-form journalism is important. For example, last semester a journalist who uncovered the injustices of the Philadelphia court system spoke to my class. His articles prompted people to make changes in Philadelphia because he drew attention to the issue. There will always be a need for that type of long-form journalism, because a short summary of the injustices would not be enough. The journalist needed facts and tons of support and sources to make his case and stand up for his findings against an entire court system.
    Although Twitter can be useful and interesting, especially because it supports being concise and only saying what is necessary, it cannot provide the facts and details necessary to prove certain points, nor can it tell an in-depth story or describe a scene to the extent that you feel like you are there.

1 comment:

  1. Alyssa. Good points. You may enjoy reading this story. http://www.thirteen.org/bookish/rolling-stone-writers-talk-long-form-journalism-at-housing-works/

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