Cyril Connolly: 'Literature is the art of writing something that will be read twice; journalism what will be grasped at once.'

Literature is the art of writing something that will be read twice; journalism what will be grasped at once.

Literature is often regarded as a form of art that transcends mere words on a page, capable of evoking deep emotions and leaving a lasting impact on its readers. In contrast, journalism is typically associated with immediate information, aiming to convey the facts succinctly and promptly. Cyril Connolly's quote, "Literature is the art of writing something that will be read twice; journalism what will be grasped at once," encapsulates this distinction, shedding light on the different purposes and approaches of these two written forms.At first glance, this quote simply highlights the divergent nature of literature and journalism. Literature, with its intricately crafted narratives, complex characters, and profound themes, often demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its nuances and layers. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper, to immerse themselves in the imagery, and to uncover the hidden intricacies that are often tucked beneath the surface. Think of works like Leo Tolstoy's "War and Peace" or Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment" – these novels require an investment of time and attention, rewarding readers with a richer, more profound experience upon subsequent readings.On the other hand, journalism aims to provide immediate information, serving as a reliable and concise source of news and current events. Its primary objective is to convey information efficiently and effectively, allowing readers to grasp the key points without requiring a second read-through. Quick deliverance of information is vital in a rapidly evolving world where breaking news can shape public opinion and influence decision-making. Journalism acts as a vehicle for disseminating information promptly and accurately, ensuring that the public remains informed and aware of the events that shape our societies.While the contrast between literature and journalism might seem straightforward, there is an unexpected philosophical concept to explore that deepens our understanding of Connolly's quote. It revolves around the idea that literature and journalism each strive for different types of truth, resulting in their distinctive approaches to writing.Literature seeks a higher, enduring truth that transcends the immediacy of journalistic fact. Through the artful use of language, symbols, and storytelling techniques, literature can tackle timeless existential questions, explore the depths of human psychology, and examine the profound complexities of the human condition. By creating worlds and characters that resonate with readers on a deep emotional level, literature allows us to understand ourselves and the world around us in a more profound and nuanced manner.Journalism, on the other hand, focuses on factual truth, aiming to provide accurate information about real-world events. Journalists adhere to rigorous standards of fact-checking and objectivity, ensuring that the news they report is as truthful as possible. However, in the pursuit of immediacy, journalism often sacrifices the depth and nuance that literature offers. The nature of journalistic writing necessitates brevity and clarity, leaving little room for exploration of the deeper implications and philosophical inquiries that literature fulfills.In essence, literature and journalism are two distinct yet complementary forms of written expression. Whereas literature offers a transformative and multi-layered experience that invites repeated readings, journalism serves as a trusted source of immediate information. Both have their place and significance in our society, fulfilling different needs and catering to different aspects of human intellect and curiosity.In conclusion, Cyril Connolly's quote eloquently captures the essence of literature and journalism as separate but equally important realms. It emphasizes the depth and lasting impact of literature, which demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its profound truths. In contrast, journalism's primary objective is to convey information rapidly, catering to the immediacy of readers' needs. By understanding and recognizing the differing purposes and approaches of these two written forms, we can engage with them more consciously and appreciatively, enriching our overall literary landscape.