Reporters are trained to place the most crucial information at the beginning of their articles, often referred to as the 'lede.' However, according to William Safire's advice, experienced commentators and analysts don't always reveal the full story right away. Instead, they might bury a significant insight or detail deeper within an article, typically around the halfway mark. This approach is designed for readers who are well-versed in politics and current affairs, allowing them to appreciate a more nuanced understanding of the events being discussed.
Safire's quote speaks to a broader strategy used by sophisticated writers and analysts to engage with knowledgeable audiences. By placing key insights or observations further into an article, these writers can cater to readers who have time to read through the entire piece, offering a richer layer of analysis and context that goes beyond initial impressions. For less experienced readers or those pressed for time, Safire suggests starting from this mid-point, which could provide them with essential information quickly without missing out on the core insight.
William Safire was an American journalist, editorial writer, and columnist who is best known for his role as a speechwriter for President Richard Nixon during the early 1970s. He later became a syndicated op-ed columnist for The New York Times and continued to write extensively about politics, language, and culture until his retirement in 2005. His insights on journalism and commentary reflect his extensive experience in both crafting speeches and analyzing political events over several decades.
