Column

Definition

A column is a recurring piece or article in a magazine that expresses the author's opinion or perspective on a specific topic. Columns are often written by the same author and provide readers with consistent commentary, insights, or advice, creating a connection between the writer and the audience. This format allows for personal expression and can also serve to provoke thought and discussion among readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Columns often appear in a regular section of a magazine, such as 'Letters to the Editor' or 'Lifestyle,' providing a sense of familiarity to readers.
2. The tone of a column can vary widely, ranging from humorous and light-hearted to serious and analytical, depending on the subject matter and intended audience.
3. A successful column can establish the author as an authority on certain topics, leading to increased readership and engagement with their work.
4. Columns can incorporate various styles, such as anecdotes, personal stories, or data-driven arguments to make points more relatable or persuasive.
5. Balancing personal opinion with factual information is crucial in writing a column to maintain credibility while engaging readers.

Review Questions

• How do columns differ from other types of articles in magazines regarding the expression of opinion?
  • Columns are distinct because they focus specifically on the author's personal opinions or perspectives, allowing for recurring commentary on specific topics. Unlike feature articles that present information more objectively or editorials that reflect a publication's stance, columns engage directly with readers through individual voice and style. This format invites ongoing conversations between the author and their audience while establishing a recognizable signature style.
• Discuss how the content mix in a magazine can benefit from including columns as part of its structure.
  • Including columns in a magazine's content mix enhances reader engagement by offering regular, relatable insights that connect with the audience's interests. Columns add depth to the magazine by presenting diverse viewpoints alongside other forms of content like feature articles and news pieces. This blend not only keeps readers returning for familiar voices but also balances entertainment with informative content, maintaining pacing throughout the publication.
• Evaluate how a columnist can maintain reader interest over time while addressing various subjects within their column.
  • A columnist can sustain reader interest by mixing different themes and styles while keeping their unique voice consistent. By incorporating personal anecdotes, timely issues, humor, or relevant research into their columns, they can engage readers on multiple levels. Additionally, responding to current events or audience feedback allows for dynamic content that resonates with readers' experiences, ultimately fostering loyalty and encouraging ongoing dialogue within their column.

Related terms

Opinion Piece: An article that presents the author's viewpoint on a specific issue, often meant to persuade or inform readers.

Editorial: A type of article that expresses the collective opinion of the publication's editorial board on an important issue.

Feature Article:

A longer, in-depth piece that explores a topic in detail, often including interviews and research, but differs from a column in that it does not necessarily reflect personal opinion.