With an alternate lede, we certainly want to set context, whether through an anecdote, an observation and/or word play. That's the purpose of an alternate lede; not just to say what happened, but how and why it matters and what greater meaning results from the action.
That means we have to make judgment calls on what is appropriate and what goes over the line in amplifying that context. Let's consider these ledes:
Cold feet is often a symptom of pre-ceremonial wedding jitters; however, the lead foot of 22-year-old Scott Forsythe resulted in tragedy this morning.
... and...
After the time and money spent to plan a wedding, the Howard and Forsythe families will need to plan for a funeral.
... and ...
Scott Forsythe was tragically in too much of a hurry to get married.
The 22-year-old was speeding over 100 mph to the church where he was to be married when he swerved off the road and was killed.
... and ...
"Until death do us part" is usually a phrase people say at the end of a weeding ceremony to seal the life-long commitment of marriage.
For 22-year-old Scott Forsythe, his death came 15 minutes before his chance to speak those words to his fiancee, Sara Howard.
... and ...
They say a man's life is over once they marry the woman they fell in love with.
For 22-year-old Scott Forsythe, his life ended 15 minutes before his wedding was set to take place.
Whaddya think? Fair or foul? I go back and forth on these two. Let's discuss.
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