Evelyn Waugh: 'News is what a chap who doesn't care much about anything wants to read. And it's only news until he's read it. After that it's dead.'

News is what a chap who doesn't care much about anything wants to read. And it's only news until he's read it. After that it's dead.

In his rather provocative statement, author Evelyn Waugh ponders the transient nature of news and its relevance to individuals who lack a deep sense of concern or interest in the world around them. On the surface, the quote suggests that news is of fleeting importance, captivating only until it is consumed, after which it loses its vitality. This straightforward interpretation implies that news is disposable, a passing fancy for those who do not invest themselves emotionally or intellectually in the subject matter.But let us venture beyond the confines of conventional analysis and introduce a philosophical concept that sheds new light on Waugh's quote. Enter the theory of existentialism, a philosophical outlook that delves into the individual's search for meaning and purpose in a seemingly chaotic and absurd world. Applying this lens to the realm of news consumption adds a fascinating layer to our understanding.From an existentialist perspective, news can be seen as a source of fleeting distraction or momentary engagement for individuals who lack a deeper sense of purpose or passion. It becomes a form of escapism, allowing people to briefly forget their indifference towards existence. In this context, news serves as a convenient diversion, providing a semblance of relevance and connection to the world without demanding a genuine commitment from the recipient.However, the existentialist viewpoint also highlights the inherent dissatisfaction and emptiness that can arise from superficial engagement with news. As soon as individuals consume the news they desire, their fleeting interest dissipates, leaving them once again confronted with the void that underlies their lack of genuine concern. News, in this sense, can be seen as a temporary remedy for the existential angst many experience, only to exacerbate it when its effects fade away.It is worth considering the paradoxical nature of news as it relates to the individual's search for meaning. News, in its essence, aims to inform, educate, and spark discussions. Yet, its transient nature renders it ephemeral and often dilutes its transformative potential. By merely passively consuming news without cultivating a deeper engagement, individuals relegate it to a trivial pursuit, failing to harness its potential to provoke critical thought, inspire action, or promote positive change.In contrasting the philosophical concept of existentialism with Waugh's quote, we uncover two perspectives that seemingly diverge but converge in their portrayal of news as ephemeral. While Waugh focuses on the apathy of individuals who perceive news as a disposable commodity, existentialism reveals the limitations of such fleeting engagement and highlights the need for a more profound connection to the world.So how can we break free from the cycle of news consumption that renders it dormant after consumption? The answer lies in embracing an active and considered approach to news. Instead of treating it as a passive distraction, we can actively seek out topics that align with our values and interests, engaging with them wholeheartedly. By doing so, we infuse the news with our deep-rooted concerns, transforming it from a transient phenomenon into a catalyst for personal growth and societal change.Ultimately, Waugh's quote serves as a poignant reminder to not become complacent with news consumption. It invites us to transcend the superficial and embrace a more active and meaningful engagement with the world around us. By doing so, we unlock the potential for news to become a valuable tool for understanding, empathy, and collective progress. Let us break the chains of apathy and foster a genuine and enduring relationship with news—one that breathes life into its transient nature and keeps it relevant long after it has been read.