Sensational Yankee Newspapers.

Manawatu Standard, Volume IX, Issue 107, 10 April 1885, Page 4

Sensational Yankee Newspapers.

In some remarks on the American Press, the result of observations during his recent tour, Mr Matthew Arnold strongly emphasised the fact that the American newspaper is nothing if not sensational. The extract given below is an apt confirmation of Mr Arnold's comments, and at the same time a good illustration of the sprit of the American Press. It is taken from the introductory address of an Illinois editor to the public. This is what the Yankee editor had to say for himself: — * Sensational, distressing details of revolting murders and shocking suicides respectfully solicited. Bible-class presentations and ministerial donation parties will be * done ' with promptness and despatch. Accurate reports of Sunday school anniversaries guaranteed, The local will cheerfully walk seventeen miles after Sunday school to see and report a prize-fight. Funerals and all other melancholy occasions written up m a manner to challenge admiration. Horse races reported m the highest style of the reportorial art. Domestic broPs and conjugal infelicities sought for with untiring avidity. Police Court proceedings ana sermons reported m a manner well calculated to astonish the prisoner, magistrate, and printer. Prompt- paying subscribers and good advertisers, when stricken with mortal illness, will be cheerfully interviewed when lying at death's door, with a view to obtaining obituary items ; and the greatest pleasure will be taken m exposing your private affairs to the critical gaze of an interested public'