Opinion Pieces and the Op-Ed Page

Opinion pieces were not only important because they engaged the audience in a larger way. They were also meant to be used in a competitive manner. Since the 1930s, the radio was occupying a massive audience followed by television which did the same. To curb the threat of their growing popularity, major newspapers decided to start printing more Op-Eds and more subjective work to cater to their audience. James Bennet, the current editor of the Opinion Page of the New York Times asserts with regard to the opinion page that, “The goal is to supply readers with a steady stream of big ideas and provocative arguments, and to entertain them.” He further also said, “My own view is that, particularly now, we owe it to our readers to present a wide range of intellectually honest opinions.” Op-Eds are normally quite lengthy and attributed to a writer who is possibly an expert in the specific matter. Not only does it express a unique voice, but also exhibits clarity of thought.

The most important thing that one should keep in mind while writing an Op-Ed is, acknowledging the arguments of the other side. One can cite sources, add quotes or simply paraphrase universally accepted arguments. It is imperative, to try to give the audience a balanced report but in a careful manner so as to not lose one’s personal conviction. All the facts and important points must be drawn out properly. It makes one’s work seem more credible and well-researched which in turn, makes your argument seem even more effective. One must also constantly write in first person and use the Active voice. It is not only easier to read, but displays much better conviction.

Op-eds are essentially of three main types.

1) Columns
A column is a specific area of expertise and newspaper space that is dedicated to a writer/journalist. The writer may freely use that space to address issues,express opinions and start conversations. They can even include personal stories, but ones that can be impactful. Columnists are generally some well known, famous names. However, they must act with immense care and caution since they represent themselves.

2) Editorial
           This type of article, is a statement that represents the position of the                publication’s editorial board which is composed of opinion writers and top editors. They discuss, debate, opinionate and channel their views to the public after much research and analysis. The New York Times describes its editorial board in the following manner.  “Their primary responsibility is to write The Times’s editorials, which represent the voice of the board, its editor and the publisher. The board is part of the Opinion department, which is operated separately from The Times’s newsroom, and includes the Letters to the Editor and Op-Ed sections.”

3) Letter to the Editor
           This type of writing is normally shorter and written by a reader. This is a space for the audience to share their experiences and opinions. They can freely express their views however their submissions cannot be too long. It could be a social issue, a political opinion or a relevant anecdote. However, no article is guaranteed publication and is left to the discretion of the editors.

Thus op-eds are democratic and act as a harbinger of freedom because they deliberately invite interesting ideas and narrate the same. Many authors even enjoy using humour in their articles to keep the tone light and conversational. Many sidelined views are brought to the forefront and discussed and debated upon. Op-ed pieces are game-changers from the point of view of freedom of expression.

References:
1)https://www.nytimes.com/2004/02/01/opinion/and-now-a-word-from-op-ed.html
2)http://web.archive.org/web/20160201094734/http://newsoffice.duke.edu/duke_resources/oped
3)https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/2018/09/13/oped-editorial-opinion-section-journalism-terms-defined-des-moines-register/1224898002/
4) https://commskit.duke.edu/writing-media/writing-effective-op-eds/
5)https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/files/hks-communications-program/files/new_seglin_how_to_write_an_oped_1_25_17_7.pdf
6)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Op-ed

Gaurvi Narang
Roll Number 48
Department Of Journalism

(These articles are written by students as a part of their assignment exercise during the period of COVID-19. Views expressed are their personal. Blog owner does not take any responsibility for their authenticity, correctness or appropriateness and shall not be responsible for any matter arising out of their interpretation.)