Embarrassed by the News

It’s been a long time since I took the time to work in front of a news channel, looking up to observe, periodically. I tend, throughout semesters, to weave in and out of interest. I’d have to interpret what I’ve seen as embarrassing in terms of broadcast journalism. Anchors persistently editorialize and judge their reporting.

One big example of this is the common use of the imprecise “War on Terror” with dorky, dippy assurance. “Today in the War on Terror . . .” Another is the use of such entrances as “Vice President Dick Cheney was obviously relieved . . . .” In addition, such closers as “he seemed choked up” demand a little more precision.

None of it makes any sense. Maybe it’s not supposed to.