Kicker

Definition

A kicker is a narrative journalism technique used at the end of a story to deliver a powerful closing statement or image that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. It serves as a memorable conclusion that often ties back to the central themes of the narrative, offering emotional resonance and depth to the story's message.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kickers are often crafted to evoke emotion, prompting readers to reflect on the significance of the story and its broader implications.
2. An effective kicker can create a sense of closure while also leaving room for contemplation, engaging readers beyond the text.
3. Kickers can take various forms, such as a poignant quote, a striking fact, or a vivid image that encapsulates the essence of the story.
4. In narrative journalism, the kicker helps to reinforce the central theme or message by connecting it back to elements presented earlier in the piece.
5. The choice of kicker can influence how readers perceive the entire narrative, shaping their understanding and emotional response.

Review Questions

• How does a kicker enhance the overall impact of a narrative journalism piece?
  • A kicker enhances the overall impact by providing a powerful closing statement that resonates emotionally with readers. It reinforces the central themes presented throughout the piece and encourages reflection on its broader implications. By leaving readers with a strong final impression, a well-crafted kicker can make the story more memorable and impactful.
• Discuss how a kicker can be tied back to elements introduced in the lead or body of a narrative journalism story.
  • A kicker can effectively tie back to elements introduced in both the lead and body by echoing themes, images, or quotes presented earlier in the narrative. This connection creates a sense of cohesion within the story, allowing readers to see how various parts are interlinked. For instance, if an opening scene sets an emotional tone, a kicker that revisits this emotion can create a satisfying circular structure that enhances comprehension and emotional engagement.
• Evaluate different types of kickers and their effectiveness in conveying themes in narrative journalism.
  • Different types of kickers—such as poignant quotes, striking facts, or vivid imagery—each have unique ways of conveying themes in narrative journalism. For example, a poignant quote might encapsulate the emotional essence of the story while prompting reflection on its meaning. Striking facts can shock or inform readers about critical issues raised in the piece. Vivid imagery can evoke powerful emotions and transport readers back into the world created by the narrative. Evaluating these different types reveals how each can enhance understanding and provoke thought about complex themes, making them vital tools for writers.

Related terms

lead: The lead is the opening sentence or paragraph of a story, designed to hook readers and introduce the main idea or theme.

narrative arc:

The narrative arc refers to the structure of a story, including the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

scene: A scene is a specific moment or event in a narrative that conveys action, character development, or significant details that drive the story forward.