November 29, 2009

Great paragraphs in newswriting history

By: Sonny Bunch

You know someone at the WaPo had a fun time writing this paragraph in a story about the various legal troubles of the White House party crashers:

The couple was featured in DC Style magazine during its short-lived run a few years ago. They are posed at mid-distance in a stylish, high-ceiling bar. He’s wearing black slacks with a white tuxedo top, hands in pockets. She is next to him in a tight, short dress, turned away, both hands pressed against a wall, head tilted forward, lips pursed into a pout, left leg arched up on tiptoe. [emp. mine]

You know that last sentence was a joint effort. I can just imagine the newsroom conversation: “Don’t forget the pout! Make sure to point that out. Got to draw a picture with your words, people!”