Beginning

Definition

In narrative journalism, the 'beginning' refers to the opening section of a story that introduces the subject, sets the tone, and captures the reader's attention. A strong beginning is crucial as it establishes the context and emotional connection, enticing readers to engage with the narrative that follows.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A strong beginning often includes an intriguing fact, a provocative question, or a vivid description that pulls readers into the story right away.
2. Effective beginnings can vary in style; they might be anecdotal, descriptive, or even statistical, depending on the story's focus and intended impact.
3. The beginning should clearly convey the main theme or issue at hand, allowing readers to understand what to expect as they delve into the narrative.
4. In narrative journalism, a powerful beginning helps to establish trust and credibility with readers, making them more likely to invest their time in reading further.
5. Beginnings are often revisited during the editing process to ensure they are as compelling and engaging as possible before publication.

Review Questions

• How does a well-crafted beginning influence a reader's perception of a narrative?
  • A well-crafted beginning influences a reader's perception by setting the tone and establishing expectations for the rest of the narrative. It serves as the initial impression and can evoke emotions or curiosity that compel readers to continue. If the beginning resonates well with readers, it enhances their engagement and interest in exploring how the story unfolds.
• Discuss the various techniques that can be employed in crafting an effective beginning for a narrative journalism piece.
  • Techniques for crafting an effective beginning include using a compelling hook that draws readers in, employing vivid imagery or descriptions to create a strong setting, or starting with an interesting anecdote that relates directly to the main theme. The choice of technique should align with the overall message and tone of the piece, ensuring that it resonates with readers from the outset.
• Evaluate how different types of beginnings can affect storytelling in narrative journalism and their impact on reader engagement.
  • Different types of beginnings can significantly affect storytelling by influencing how readers perceive and connect with the narrative. For instance, an anecdotal beginning may create an emotional bond with readers, while a statistical opening might appeal to those seeking factual information. The choice of beginning can either enhance or detract from reader engagement; an engaging start invites readers to invest in the story, while a lackluster opening may cause them to lose interest before fully experiencing the narrative.

Related terms

Lead: The lead is the opening sentence or paragraph of a news story, summarizing the most important information and drawing readers in.

Hook: A hook is a compelling element within the beginning that grabs the reader's attention and encourages them to continue reading.

Narrative Arc: The narrative arc is the structure of a story, including its beginning, middle, and end, which guides the reader through the unfolding events.