24 Jul Book Review of The Lede: Dispatches from a Life in the Press
A Journey Through the Humorous and Heartfelt World of Calvin Trillin in The Lede: Dispatches from a Life in the Press
When I first picked up The Lede: Dispatches from a Life in the Press by Calvin Trillin, it was with a mix of curiosity and the comforting promise of humor. Trillin has been a staple in American journalism for decades, a voice that brings wit and insight to the often serious world of reporting. As someone who loves both reading and writing about the nuances of journalism, I found his collection to be a delightful exploration of not only the craft but the characters who shape it, all while delivered in Trillin’s signature humorous style.
In The Lede, Trillin artfully weaves a tapestry of anecdotes that span his extensive career—from his whimsical reflections on unforgettable ledes, like the bizarre tale of a biting camel, to poignant tributes that shine a light on remarkable journalists like Edna Buchanon and R.W. Apple, Jr. The variety in his writing showcases his versatility: he can convey factual urgency with lightness, making journalism feel accessible yet deeply reflective.
Themes of camaraderie, humor, and the unpredictability of life in the press resonate throughout the book. Trillin’s admiration for his peers, especially women like Buchanon who broke through barriers in crime reporting, is palpable. His friendship with Molly Ivins, highlighted by fond recollections of her wit and fierce advocacy, made me appreciate not only their shared profession but the human connections that make the work worthwhile. One line that struck me was Trillin’s description of Ivins not just for her talents but for the very essence of who she was—it’s this human touch that elevates his stories from mere profession-driven accounts to personal memoirs rich in warmth and affection.
The writing style in The Lede is both engaging and accessible. Trillin’s knack for satire and playful language kept me turning pages and laughing out loud. His ability to condense complex ideas or events into digestible nuggets—like when he humorously tried to introduce terms like "Sabbath Gasbags" into the lexicon—adds a layer of delight that can only come from someone who has truly mastered his craft. Even when discussing serious subjects, he imbues each piece with a light-heartedness that engaged my attention and sparked my own reflections on the current state of journalism.
What resonated with me most was not just Trillin’s sharp observations but the broader picture he paints of the ever-evolving landscape of journalism. He captures both the absurdities and the stark realities reporters face, reminding us that while the world may be filled with chaos, humor often acts as a glue that binds experiences and stories together. “A reporter’s life is often absurd,” Trillin suggests, “and if you can’t laugh at it, you’ll find it hard to keep going.”
The Lede is an excellent read for anyone interested in journalism, media history, or just looking for a good laugh. Trillin’s work extends beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a reflection on the human condition, an appreciation for the unsung heroes of the newsroom, and a reminder of the lightness we can find even in challenging contexts. If you enjoy narratives that blend thoughtful commentary with a generous sprinkling of humor, you’ll find this collection to be both a delightful escape and a profound reflection on the world we live in.
In closing, my reading experience of The Lede not only introduced me to the remarkable life of Calvin Trillin but also left me thinking more critically about the stories that shape our understanding of each other and the world around us. This delightful collection has firmly secured a space on my bookshelf, and I suspect it will speak to many readers who cherish the woven fabric of journalism, humor, and community.
Happy reading!
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