Editorials are the conscience of a newspaper. They are the compass by which readers navigate complex issues, the voice of reason that rises above the din of daily headlines. Yet, crafting a truly great editorial is no small feat. It requires a delicate balance of clarity, objectivity, and persuasive argument—qualities easier admired than consistently achieved. Local papers, including the New Canaan Sentinel, may not always meet this gold standard, but we hold deep respect for those who do, and we remain committed to aspiring to such excellence.
A great editorial begins with purpose. It is not merely an opinion piece; it is an argument grounded in fact. The editorial board, whether large or small, must act as a coalition of critical thinkers, distilling diverse viewpoints into a cohesive perspective. The aim is to inform, persuade, and provoke thought without veering into hyperbole or advocacy for its own sake. This is where balance becomes paramount. Editorials must tackle contemporary issues while avoiding the traps of populism or knee-jerk reactions. They should challenge the audience to think critically, not just agree reflexively.
The best editorials also demonstrate a mastery of timing. They are current, addressing pressing issues of the day, but not ephemeral. A great editorial does not chase fleeting trends; it seeks to provide insight into events as they unfold, framing them in broader contexts. Whether addressing a local zoning debate or a national policy shift, the editorial seeks relevance beyond the immediate moment. In doing so, it elevates its subject and provides readers with a lens through which to view the world.
Structure and tone are equally important. A well-crafted editorial is clear, concise, and cogent. It opens with a compelling premise, provides evidence to support its argument, and closes with a call to action or reflection. The tone is authoritative yet accessible, opinionated yet respectful of opposing views. Striking this balance is no small task, but it is essential to earn the trust of readers.
Local newspapers, including this one, often struggle to meet these standards. Time and resource constraints can lead to editorials that are rushed or incomplete, lacking the depth and rigor they deserve. But this does not diminish their importance. If anything, the challenges faced by local papers highlight the vital role they play in their communities. Editorials in local papers serve as a forum for dialogue on issues that directly impact readers’ lives, from school board decisions to infrastructure projects. Even when imperfect, these pieces represent an effort to engage and inform.
We admire those who consistently elevate the form. Editorials in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal often set the bar, dissecting complex national and global issues with precision and clarity. But greatness is not confined to large, well-resourced outlets. Many smaller papers deliver editorials of remarkable quality, offering nuanced takes on local matters with an authenticity that larger outlets often lack.
Ultimately, what makes a great editorial is not its perfection but its impact. A great editorial provokes discussion, influences decisions, and inspires change. It serves the public interest, not the interests of the editorial board. At its best, an editorial is not merely a reflection of the newsroom’s views but a catalyst for the community’s growth.
At our paper, we may not always achieve this ideal, but we aspire to it with every editorial we write. We strive to be thoughtful, balanced, and relevant. We aim to challenge ourselves as much as we challenge our readers. And we do so in the belief that editorials, even imperfect ones, matter.
Editorials are an expression of opinion; they are a commitment to the principles of open debate, accountability, and progress. In every issue we tackle, we endeavor to meet that commitment, knowing that the effort itself is as important as the result. This is what makes a great editorial—and what makes us determined to keep at it. We hope you will too. Write it down. Send it out.
