Pink Think: “I would be lying if I said journalism doesn’t reflect my own choices as a reporter and a writer: what to say, what to emphasize, how to say it, what is true or untrue.” – David Simon
photo by stonemen on flickr
I interviewed a man last week for a profile. Usually I write 600-word pieces which is just not enough to go in depth, so I asked my editor if I could bump up the length. His answer: sure.
Cool beans, as my hubby would say. So I met with my subject at a restaurant and established a rapport. Chit chatted a little, then sequed into questions amidst the noise of a blender in the background. He was very nice and willing to open up about his life story, warts and all, in two hours.
It felt both a blessing and a burden.
A blessing because for two hours, you get to know someone more than just the superficial. You realize that this person who seems all-knowing and successful is insecure just like the rest of us. That to get where they are, they had to surmount many obstacles. You come away inspired.
A burden because now their life is now in your hands to portray to the world. It’s a daunting and scary task. To be selective. To stay honest and yet compassionate. To share the story of an imperfect human being that would be reading your words later on. And possibly believing them about himself.
I am grateful for the opportunity, but it’s a tricky balance.
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