Examples of Opinion Columns
Example 1: Suicide of a Dishonest Officer
Example 2: Why Paul Ryan Should Beware of Visions
Example 3: Why the New Vatican Leaks Scandal is Different
Example 4: Four Kinds of Opinion Pieces I Won't Read
Example 5: Hilary in History
Social Context:
Where is the genre typically set?
The genre is typically set in newspapers or magazines, usually ones with reputable editors and writers.
What is the subject of the genre?
The subject of the genre has a huge range. Usually the subject is somewhat current and controversial, and is intended to spark conversation.
Who uses the genre?
Usually authors who work for that particular establishment, although freelance writers are frequently published. For example, the author of example 1 is employed by the New York Times.
When and why is the genre used? What purpose does the genre serve for people who use it?
The genre is used nearly daily. Sundays are particularly big for editorial pieces. The genre is used to inform people of conversations that are going on in particular fields, usually social or political. The genre can be used as an expression of public speech.
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| "Hieronymous" by Ian Thomas Jansen-Lonnquist for the New York Times |
Rhetorical Patterns of the Genre
What type of context is usually included and excluded?
A bio of the author is almost always included at the top of the page. Social context is almost always included. Location and geography are sometimes included, but the context is usually dependent on the issue.
What rhetorical appeals appear most often?
Ethos appears in the author bio. Pathos and logos are often combined to appear as a support of evidence. Pathos is often shown through personal stories or accompanying graphics. Logos is found in statistical analysis, although it is not as common as pathos.
How are the texts organized?
Organization varies depending on the author and topic. However, the texts are usually short, and often have chunky paragraphs. An interesting intro and conclusion would be considered conventional.
Do sentences share a common structure or style?
Quotations are a common way to support arguments, especially in Examples 1 and 5.
What type of word choice is used? Tone? Jargon?
Jargon is typically either explained or avoided. A personable tone is used, although the author either attempts to remain impartial or address his or her biases.
Analyze what the Patterns Reveal about Social Context
Who does the genre include and exclude?
The genre is pretty inclusive for ideas that support the author's argument. However, concepts that disagree with the evidence are often avoided.
What roles for writers and readers does the genre encourage?
The role of the writer is to assume an opinion and stick with it, without addressing possible confusions. The role of the reader is to be persuaded by the work.
What values and beliefs are assumed about or encouraged from users of the genre?
Some values include a strong education, a certain age, geographical location, and possibly gender. Beliefs can vary based on the topic, although in this day and age, authors typically either cater to a religious crowd or a secular audience.
What content does the genre treat as most valuable?
The most valuable content is support and analysis of the author's argument.
What content does the genre treat as least valuable?
The content that is least valuable is the other side's opinion.
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