Feature story

Definition

A feature story is a detailed piece of writing that explores a particular subject, event, or individual in depth, often emphasizing narrative and descriptive elements over straightforward reporting. These stories allow for greater creativity and personal expression, focusing on storytelling techniques to engage the reader's emotions and curiosity, which differentiates them from traditional news articles. Feature stories can provide context and background information that enhances understanding and interest in the subject matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often use a narrative structure that includes an engaging lead, rich details, and a strong conclusion to leave a lasting impression.
2. They allow journalists to explore complex topics beyond just the 'who, what, where, when' of traditional news reporting.
3. Feature stories can incorporate interviews, personal anecdotes, and detailed descriptions to create a vivid picture for the reader.
4. While news stories prioritize timeliness and conciseness, feature stories focus more on depth and context, sometimes taking weeks or months to research and write.
5. These stories often aim to inform, entertain, or inspire readers by connecting them emotionally to the subject matter.

Review Questions

• How do feature stories differ from traditional news articles in terms of structure and purpose?
  • Feature stories differ from traditional news articles mainly in their structure and purpose. While news articles typically follow the inverted pyramid style focusing on essential information first, feature stories employ a more narrative structure with engaging leads and elaborate details. The purpose of feature stories is not just to inform but also to entertain or evoke emotions by exploring subjects deeply rather than just reporting the facts.
• Discuss the role of narrative techniques in enhancing the effectiveness of feature stories.
  • Narrative techniques play a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of feature stories by creating a more engaging and immersive reading experience. By incorporating elements like character development, plot structure, and vivid descriptions, journalists can draw readers into the story emotionally. This connection helps readers understand not just the facts but also the human experiences behind them, making complex topics more relatable and impactful.
• Evaluate how feature stories contribute to public understanding of important issues compared to traditional news reporting.
  • Feature stories contribute significantly to public understanding of important issues by providing depth and context that traditional news reporting often lacks. While hard news presents quick facts and events, feature stories delve into the 'why' and 'how,' offering comprehensive insights into subjects through personal experiences and narratives. This approach helps readers grasp complexities in issues like social justice or health care by connecting them emotionally to real-life implications rather than just statistics or headlines.

Related terms

Narrative Journalism: A style of journalism that tells a story by blending factual reporting with narrative techniques, often including characters, plot, and conflict.

Human Interest Story: A type of feature story that focuses on the emotional and personal aspects of a subject, aiming to evoke empathy and connect with readers on a deeper level.

Soft News: News that is less focused on hard facts and immediate events, often dealing with lifestyle, culture, or entertainment topics, allowing for more subjective and creative writing.