Quotes

Definition

Quotes are direct citations from individuals that can provide insight, authenticity, and depth to a story. They are essential in feature writing and long-form journalism as they capture the voice of the subject and convey emotions, opinions, or experiences that enrich the narrative and engage readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Quotes can serve as powerful tools to illustrate key points or themes in feature writing, enhancing storytelling by adding personal perspectives.
2. In long-form journalism, quotes help break up dense text, making articles more readable and engaging for audiences.
3. Effective quotes can evoke emotions and paint vivid pictures in the reader's mind, helping to establish a connection between the reader and the subject.
4. When using quotes, it's important to ensure they are accurate and contextually appropriate, as misrepresenting someone's words can lead to misinformation.
5. Using a mix of quotes from various sources can provide a balanced view on a topic, showcasing different perspectives and enriching the narrative.

Review Questions

• How do quotes enhance storytelling in feature writing?
  • Quotes enhance storytelling by providing authentic voices that add depth and emotion to the narrative. They allow readers to hear directly from subjects, creating a more immersive experience. By incorporating quotes, writers can highlight personal experiences or opinions that illustrate larger themes or messages within the piece.
• Discuss the importance of attribution when using quotes in long-form journalism.
  • Attribution is crucial when using quotes as it gives credit to the speaker and establishes credibility for the information presented. Properly attributing quotes ensures transparency, allowing readers to trust the source of information. Without clear attribution, quotes may lose their impact or lead to questions about accuracy and authenticity.
• Evaluate how the use of quotes can influence the overall tone and perspective of a long-form journalistic piece.
  • The use of quotes significantly influences both tone and perspective in long-form journalism. Thoughtfully selected quotes can evoke specific emotions and create a particular atmosphere, shaping how readers interpret the story. Moreover, by incorporating diverse voices through quotes, journalists can present multiple viewpoints on an issue, leading to a more nuanced understanding while enhancing reader engagement and interest.

Related terms

Attribution: The process of crediting the source of a quote, indicating who said it and establishing credibility.

Paraphrase:

Restating someone else's ideas or opinions in your own words, which can provide clarity or context while not using their exact phrasing.

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a story that grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for the article.