Feature writing is a type of journalism that focuses on in-depth storytelling and exploration of a particular subject. In IPA phonetic transcription, the spelling of "feature writing" is /ˈfiːtʃər ˈraɪtɪŋ/. The first syllable is pronounced as "fee," the vowel sound in "sheep." The second syllable is pronounced as "chuh," the sound in "church." The stress falls on the first syllable, and the final "ing" is pronounced as "uy-ting," where "uy" is the vowel in "buy" and "ting" is the sound in "sing."
Feature writing is a form of journalistic writing that goes beyond delivering simple news or factual information. It is a genre of writing that focuses on telling stories, capturing emotions, and providing in-depth analysis and interpretation of events or subjects. Feature writing is characterized by its narrative style, aiming to engage readers and offer a deeper understanding of the story being told.
At its core, feature writing is about human interest. It sheds light on the lives and experiences of individuals and allows readers to connect with them on a personal level. It often reveals the unique aspects of people's lives, their struggles, triumphs, passions, and the lessons they have learned along the way.
Feature writing also seeks to educate and entertain its audience by incorporating vivid descriptions, anecdotes, and storytelling techniques. It may explore various topics, ranging from profiles of notable personalities to investigative reports, cultural analyses, or human-interest stories. Unlike the traditional inverted pyramid structure of news writing, feature articles tend to have a more narrative flow, creating a captivating reading experience.
The purpose of feature writing is to go beyond the headlines and provide a deeper understanding and perspective on a particular subject. It aims to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and captivate readers. Through compelling storytelling and critical analysis, feature writers highlight the significance and relevance of a story or issue, often delving into its historical, social, or cultural context.
In summary, feature writing is a rich and dynamic form of journalism that tells compelling stories, explores diverse subjects, and seeks to engage and enlighten its readership through its narrative style and in-depth analysis.
The word "feature" originated from the Old French word "faiture" or "faitor", which means a making or doing. In the early 14th century, it was incorporated into Middle English as "feuter", which referred to a distinctive characteristic or trait. Over time, the meaning evolved, and "feature" came to denote a prominent or noticeable part or aspect of something, such as a person's face.
The term "writing" comes from the Old English word "wrīting", meaning the act or process of using written symbols to communicate ideas. It is derived from the Old English verb "wrītan", meaning to incise, carve, or write.