The Enduring Allure of Old-School Reporting

Gay Talese’s recent conversation with Kelefa Sanneh has reignited interest in the “New Journalism” pioneer. His six-decade tenure is a testament to the enduring power of immersive storytelling, which he achieved through his willingness to get close to – and sometimes cross the line with – his subjects.

Talese’s most famous work, “Frank Sinatra Has a Cold,” published in 1966, showcases why he’s so revered by writers and reporters. This Esquire piece didn’t just delve into the private life of the Chairman of the Board; it helped create an aura around him that still lingers today. Some might argue that Talese’s approach was more about creating a myth than telling the truth, but his willingness to take risks has undoubtedly influenced generations of journalists.

Talese downplays the importance of direct quotes and interviews in his conversation with Sanneh. He admits to never having spoken to Sinatra himself, instead relying on second-hand accounts and observations to craft a narrative that’s both intimate and detached. This approach raises questions about the value of “access journalism,” where reporters prioritize getting close to their subjects over digging deeper into the issues at hand.

In an era where social media has created new avenues for journalists to connect with sources, it’s worth examining whether Talese’s methods are still relevant. Some might argue that his focus on character-driven storytelling is too narrow, neglecting the complexities of systemic issues and policy changes. Others might see his emphasis on atmosphere and mood as a way to humanize even the most seemingly mundane topics.

Talese’s career highlights the tension between artistic ambition and journalistic responsibility. He often pushed boundaries in pursuit of a good story – sometimes blurring the line between observer and participant. This has led some critics to accuse him of sensationalism, while others see his willingness to take risks as a necessary aspect of great reporting.

The fact that Talese is still drawing attention today speaks to the ongoing debate about the role of journalism in society. As news outlets struggle to stay relevant in a world where information is increasingly fragmented and immediate, it’s worth considering what Talese’s legacy can teach us. His emphasis on atmosphere and character may seem old-fashioned compared to clickbait-driven headlines that dominate social media, but it’s precisely this kind of immersive storytelling that has helped shape our understanding of the world.

Talese’s influence extends beyond his own work. The growing interest in “narrative nonfiction” – a genre that blurs the line between fiction and fact – owes a debt to his pioneering approach. As writers continue to push the boundaries of narrative nonfiction, they would do well to examine what lessons can be learned from Talese’s commitment to immersive storytelling.

While some might see Talese’s methods as outdated or even reckless, others acknowledge that his willingness to take risks has led to truly groundbreaking reporting. This tension continues to play out in the world of journalism today – between those who prioritize getting close to their subjects and those who focus on deeper analysis and policy-driven reporting.

One thing is clear: Talese’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of writers and reporters. His emphasis on atmosphere, character, and immersive storytelling may be seen as old-fashioned by some, but it’s precisely this kind of nuanced approach that has helped shape our understanding of the world. As journalism continues to evolve in response to changing technologies and shifting audience habits, it’s worth reflecting on what Talese’s storied career can teach us about the enduring power of great reporting.

In an age where social media platforms prioritize clickbait headlines over nuanced storytelling, it’s refreshing to revisit the work of a journalist who was willing to take risks in pursuit of a good story. While Talese’s methods may not be emulated by many today, his influence can still be seen in the work of writers and reporters who strive for immersive, character-driven reporting.

The endearing quality of Gay Talese’s career lies in its contradictions – between artistic ambition and journalistic responsibility, between immersion and detachment. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of journalism, it’s worth remembering that great reporting is about more than just getting access to information; it’s about crafting a narrative that resonates with readers.

Talese’s legacy will endure as a testament to the power of immersive storytelling – an approach that may seem old-fashioned in today’s clickbait-driven news cycle but has undoubtedly helped shape our understanding of the world.