Angle

Definition

In feature writing, the angle refers to the specific perspective or focus that a story takes, shaping how the information is presented and what elements are emphasized. It helps define the narrative by guiding the writer's approach and deciding what aspects of a story resonate most with the audience. A well-defined angle makes a story compelling and relatable, ultimately influencing how readers connect with the content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The angle determines what makes a story unique by highlighting specific details that differentiate it from similar pieces.
2. A strong angle can shift the perception of a story, making it more relevant to current events or personal experiences.
3. Writers often brainstorm multiple angles before settling on one that will best engage their target audience.
4. An effective angle can enhance storytelling techniques by creating emotional connections between the reader and the subject matter.
5. Editors look for clarity in the angle during review processes to ensure that it aligns with the publication's mission and audience interests.

Review Questions

• How does an angle influence the overall narrative structure of a feature story?
  • The angle acts as a guiding framework for the entire narrative structure of a feature story. It helps determine which details are included, what information gets emphasized, and how characters or events are portrayed. A clear angle provides direction for the writer, ensuring that all elements of the story work together cohesively to support that perspective and engage readers effectively.
• Discuss the importance of having multiple angles when brainstorming for a story pitch.
  • Having multiple angles during brainstorming allows writers to explore different perspectives and select the most compelling one for their story pitch. This diversity in angles can lead to innovative ideas and fresh insights, which can make a pitch stand out to editors. By evaluating various angles, writers can also assess which perspective resonates most with their intended audience, leading to a more targeted and impactful narrative.
• Evaluate how an editor's feedback on a story's angle can enhance its final presentation and audience appeal.
  • An editor’s feedback on a story's angle is crucial for refining its final presentation. Editors bring an external perspective that can identify strengths and weaknesses in the proposed angle, ensuring it aligns with audience interests and publication standards. By collaborating with writers to tweak or reshape the angle, editors help elevate storytelling quality, making it more engaging and accessible while maintaining clarity and focus throughout.

Related terms

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

Nut Graph: A paragraph that summarizes the main point of a story, explaining why it matters and providing context for the reader.

Voice: The unique style and tone of a writer that conveys personality and engages the reader, impacting how the angle is expressed.