So, what have I lost: precious relationships, my self-respect and probably much more...I am still proud that I am a journalist! But am not proud of the fraternity that I am part of - day in and day out. For long, I supported journalism, was an idealist and activist. I fought with my mom, tooth-and-nail to remain in this field, gave her all the possible arguments like a lawyer!
Finally, after having entered this field, been there for 7 years now, I feel like a fool thanks to members of the fraternity of whom I was proud of, for a long time. I am compelled to bring this done-to-death topic here, on this forum, 'coz all my friends in the media agree with me and am thankful to all those who stood by me like a wall whenever I wanted to break down!
I would call myself a 'solitary reaper' in this field, trying to find my place here. I realized it is a futile task trying to prove myself. Long ago, as an intern for a reputed newspaper in the south, my news editor had given me a tip on my last day there. This is what he said: If u can prove yourself in the desk, u can shine as a writer. He was partly right. I did do well in the desk for a while and used to write well too. But after a few years, I started realizing that desk was not my cup of tea. Yet I persisted, giving myself chances repeatedly.
Never thinking that it had been a Himalayan blunder of my life to become a sub-editor! Now that 7 years have passed, I want to break the vicious cycle that is consuming me; follow my heart and resume writing! I know there are a whole lot of risks involved: I would have to financially sustain myself and also incur my mom's wrath for taking another plunge into an unknown abyss. But, I am willing to take a risk 'coz this time, I do not want to lose myself again.
3 comments:
The age of idealistic journalism has gone away, now it is an industry, where bosses do not want good journalists, they want butterer. this is the reality. But I think every one should enjoy there profession to remain happy. As far as writing is concerned, please write as your writing skill is good. All the best
Well, to begin with, persisting with your ambitions against all odds in itself is a commendable thing. Kudos for that...
As far as journalism is concerned, it has obviously fallen prey to cold business logic, and is indeed losing its morality. But i guess there is always scope for an old-fashioned value-driven journalist to make things go the right way.... i know it sounds idealistic, and maybe it is... but just a thought.
Finally, if u do decide to move to writing, i would be interested in working with you till whatever minimum extent i can, coz i too share the desire to write... please keep this in mind!
It was a pleasure reading 'you' and i too being a journo agree with your thoughts. The difference is just i am on the other side of desk. as a matter of fact even i was given a advice by my editor on a incident-"welcome to the world of journalism."
working on your own terms and condition in today's world is possible but with manipulations. I am not trying to encourage or support the concept but smartness is the key. would suggest before launching or entering in a quest recover what you have lost which is anytime valuable and will count once you achieve what you desire.
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