As someone who’s spent years in the trenches of journalism—working at News Today, DT Next, The Hindu Business Line, and Talk Media—I’ve always been passionate about how stories are crafted, the angles we choose, and the impact they have on readers.

Back in my early days, I remember being inspired by reporters whose writing styles I admired. Their dedication to storytelling and their ability to weave narratives that resonated deeply with readers left a lasting impression on me. Over time, I tried to hone my own voice as a writer (and I believe I still need to get better), and it’s been a journey of growth and discovery.

But here’s the thing: people are avoiding the news. And honestly, I get it.

The news can feel overwhelming, depressing, and often devoid of hope or solutions. So, how do we change that? How do we make journalism engaging, relevant, and even transformative for our readers?

The answer, I believe, lies in fiction.

Now, when I say fiction, I’m not talking about making up stories or straying from the truth. What I mean is infusing journalistic writing with the emotional depth, resonance, and flair of fiction. Think about the way a great novel or a blockbuster movie pulls you in—its characters, dialogues, and story arcs. That’s the kind of storytelling we need in journalism today.

Why Fiction?

In an age where AI-generated content is everywhere, your voice is what will set you apart. And to build that voice, fiction can be a game-changer. It’s about creating stories that don’t just inform but also connect emotionally with your audience.

Let me share two examples that have inspired me:

1. The Caravan Magazine: I’ve always been a fan of The Caravan for its meticulous research and brilliant storytelling. Even though it’s a non-fiction journalistic publication, its stories read like fiction. They’re packed with dialogues, powerful punchlines, and headlines that grab your attention. I first learned about The Caravan’s approach during my time at Ashoka University’s Young India Fellowship. My professor, Nikita Saxena, taught us about the art of profile writing and the intense research that goes into crafting these stories. It’s not just about reporting facts; it’s about telling a story that resonates.

2. Narratively.com: Another example that’s close to my heart is Narratively, founded by Noah Rosenberg. I discovered Narratively during my time at the Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program by the Craig Newmark J-School at the City University of New York. My mentor, Jeremy Caplan, introduced me to their case study, and I was blown away by their writing style. Narratively’s stories are long-form, often 3,000 to 5,000 words, but they’re anything but boring. They tackle uncomfortable topics, include emotional dissonance, and stick to the foundational elements of storytelling. Noah even gave me some advice when I was testing out The Chennai Emailer a few years ago. He emphasized the importance of emotional resonance and strong storytelling in every piece.

The Power of Fiction in Journalism

So, how can we apply these lessons to our own writing? Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Start with a Problem Statement: Identify a niche issue your audience is facing. What keeps them up at night? What challenges are they dealing with? Your story should pivot around this problem and offer a solution.

2. Infuse Emotional Depth: Use the tools of fiction—dialogues, character development, and story arcs—to make your writing more engaging. Don’t shy away from uncomfortable truths or emotional moments.

3. Promise Transformation: Your stories should leave readers with a sense of hope or a call to action. What can they do differently after reading your piece? How can your writing inspire change?

4. Stand Out in the Age of AI: With AI-generated content becoming the norm, your unique voice and storytelling style are your greatest assets. People are willing to pay for journalism, newsletters, or podcasts that offer value and emotional connection.

Final Thoughts

Fiction has the power to make us care about journalism again. It’s not about abandoning the truth but about enhancing it with the tools of storytelling. Whether you’re writing a profile, a long-form article, or a newsletter, remember that your words have the power to transform and inspire.

So, let’s embrace the power of fiction in our journalistic endeavors. Let’s create stories that not only inform but also move our readers. Because in the end, that’s what great writing is all about.