ABSTRACT
This chapter defines and analyzes the inherent subjectivity, nomenclature, and characteristics of literary journalism—as distinct from news journalism—as one subjective position regarding subjects—including people—outside that self. It traces questions of self and other across contemporary history of the genre, noting that sharp upturns in its practice coincide with times of social crisis and change. It surveys defining and lesser known examples of literary journalism. It examines controversies related to factual vs. fictionalized reportage within a subjective presentation and describes the social and political implications of the genre’s implicit and explicit advocacy and empathy.
