1.1 Defining Feature Writing

Feature writing is a creative form of journalism that goes beyond hard news. It uses storytelling techniques to explore topics in-depth, focusing on human interest and providing nuanced perspectives on events and issues.

Unlike hard news, feature articles aim to entertain and engage readers emotionally. They cover a wide range of subjects, from lifestyle to politics, allowing journalists to showcase their creativity and writing skills while informing the public.

Feature writing: Definition and purpose

Defining feature writing and its role in journalism

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• Feature writing is a form of creative nonfiction that aims to entertain, inform, and engage readers through compelling storytelling techniques and in-depth exploration of topics
• Unlike hard news reporting, feature writing often focuses on human interest stories, profiles, and trends, providing a more nuanced and contextual perspective on events and issues
• Feature articles can cover a wide range of topics, from lifestyle and culture to politics and social issues, allowing journalists to showcase their creativity and writing skills

The purpose and impact of feature writing

• The purpose of feature writing is to capture readers' attention, evoke emotions, and provide a deeper understanding of a subject matter, often by highlighting unique angles or personal experiences
• Feature writing plays a crucial role in diversifying a publication's content, attracting a broader readership, and providing a break from the immediacy and brevity of hard news reporting
• By engaging readers through compelling storytelling and in-depth analysis, feature writing can spark conversations, raise awareness, and influence public opinion on important issues

Feature writing vs Hard news

Differences in focus and structure

• Hard news reporting focuses on delivering timely, factual, and objective information about current events, while feature writing prioritizes storytelling, analysis, and human interest angles
• Hard news stories follow the inverted pyramid structure, presenting the most important information first, while feature articles often employ narrative techniques, such as anecdotes, descriptive language, and dialogue
• Feature articles are typically longer and more in-depth than hard news stories, allowing writers to explore multiple perspectives, provide background information, and develop characters

Contrasting tone and style

• The tone and style of feature writing tend to be more conversational, engaging, and sometimes even humorous (witty profiles, satirical pieces), compared to the straightforward and formal tone of hard news reporting
• While hard news stories aim to inform readers about the essential facts of an event, feature articles seek to provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter and its implications, often evoking an emotional response from the audience
• Feature writers have more freedom to experiment with language, structure, and storytelling techniques, creating a more immersive and memorable reading experience compared to the concise and objective nature of hard news

Key elements of feature writing

Engaging openings and compelling narratives

• A strong lead or opening that hooks readers' attention and sets the tone for the article, often using anecdotes, descriptive language, or thought-provoking questions
• Narrative techniques, such as dialogue, pacing, and character development, that make the story more engaging and relatable to readers
• A clear and compelling theme or message that ties the story together and leaves a lasting impression on readers
• A satisfying conclusion that wraps up the story, often revisiting the lead or main theme and providing a sense of closure or reflection

Descriptive language and human interest angles

• Descriptive and vivid language that helps readers visualize scenes, characters, and settings, creating a more immersive reading experience (sensory details, metaphors, similes)
• A focus on human interest angles, highlighting personal experiences, emotions, and the impact of events or issues on individuals and communities
• The use of multiple sources, including expert opinions, personal interviews, and background research, to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective on the topic

Creativity and storytelling in feature writing

The importance of creativity in crafting compelling features

• Creativity is essential in feature writing, as it allows journalists to approach topics from unique angles, find fresh perspectives, and craft compelling narratives that stand out from traditional news reporting
• Creative language, such as metaphors, similes, and descriptive adjectives, can help bring a story to life and create a more immersive reading experience
• Experimenting with different narrative structures, such as nonlinear storytelling (flashbacks, flash-forwards) or using multiple perspectives, can add depth and complexity to a feature article

Storytelling techniques that engage and inform readers

• Feature writers often employ storytelling techniques, such as using anecdotes, creating vivid scenes, and developing characters, to make their articles more engaging and memorable
• By focusing on the human element and emotional aspects of a story, feature writers can create a stronger connection with readers and make complex issues more relatable and understandable
• Creativity in feature writing also involves finding unique ways to present information, such as using infographics, multimedia elements (videos, podcasts), or interactive features to enhance the story
• Ultimately, the role of creativity and storytelling in feature writing is to inform, entertain, and engage readers, leaving a lasting impact and sparking conversations about important issues