Monday, January 31, 2011

Basic Ledes . . . Say What You Mean

Be careful that you don't say more than the facts suggest. Like in this lede:

Lightning struck at a municipal swimming pool last year, causing a young man to lose his friend, his sight, mobility and memory. Erik Barsh and his family are now suing the city for his injuries.

This is an awesome lede. Love the structure, the context and the word play.

Problem is, it's not right.

According to the information you were given, Barsh is at risk of losing his damaged sight and mobility. He has not lost those yet. Technically, this is a fatal. It's not supported by the facts. You went off track just a little, but there's no such thing as a little mistake. Especially when you are labeling someone as blind and immobile when they are not.

Make sure you say what you mean, and you mean what you say.

No comments: