Long-form journalism provides an escape from the attention grabbing nature of modern news media. Tools like live blogging and Twitter mean we digest more and more of the day’s news and events, however, they can detract from journalism’s original and primary function; story telling.
I wanted to post my three favourite examples of long-form journalism to highlight the importance of the craft in fulfilling this function, reminding us of the humanity behind events and conveying complicated issues. Put on a play list, close twitter, mute your phone and get sucked in…
Wired – Art of the Steal: On the Trail of World’s Most Ingenious Thief
Joshuah Bearman (@joshbearman) writes for Rolling Stone, Harper’s, Wired, The New York Times Magazine, here he covers the incredible story of master thief Gerald Blanchard. Wired regularly includes in-depth crime features, if you like this one try The Untold Story of the World’s Biggest Diamond Heist or One Hacker’s Audacious Plan to Rule the Black Market in Stolen Credit Cards.
Esquire – Biography of Usain Bolt, Mutant
A captivating piece on the sporting prowess of Usain Bolt, including a 1,100 words on his record-breaking race.
Rolling Stone – The Great American Bubble Machine
One of Matt Taibbi’s (@mtaibbi) earlier pieces on Goldman Sachs which spawned the ‘vampire squid’ phrase. Here’s one from Rolling Stone’s vault The Kentucky Derby Is Decadent and Depraved. There isn’t a journalist out there that hasn’t marveled at the savage pace and rhythm of the late great Hunter S. Thompson.
If you’re interested in finding more of this type of article it’s worth checking out @longreads.
Interested in writing features? Have a look at this post: How to write a good feature lede; learn from some of the best.
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