William Lewis Safire (December 17, 1929 – September 27, 2009) was an American author, columnist, journalist and presidential speechwriter.
He was perhaps best known for the NYT column, On Language (popular etymology). His fare well article ‘How to Read a Column’ should be a must read for every high school senior. And, all adults.
Don't fall for the "snapper" device. To give an aimless harangue the illusion of shapeliness, some of us begin with a historical allusion or revealing anecdote, then wander around for 600 words before concluding by harking back to an event or quotation in the opening graph. This stylistic circularity gives the reader a snappy sense of completion when the pundit has not figured out his argument's conclusion.
Never assume the obvious is true
Last, but not least, avoid clichés like the plague
William Safire
Posts
"How to read a column"
ReplyDeleteI totally missed the point of this link.
Steve
William Safire passed away yesterday. If you have been a follower of the NYT and read his articles on language, or been involved in the newspaper business, you may have made a connection.
ReplyDeleteOtherwise, the secrets of the newsperson are revealed and let us see through many of the articles published.
Maybe Jim will add a comment.
Don't fall for the "quotes" device. To give an aimless harangue the illusion of shapeliness, some of us begin with a quote, then wander around for 600 worthless words before concluding by harking back to an event or quotation in the opening quote. This stylistic circularity gives the reader a sense of completion when the pundit has not figured out his argument's conclusion.
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