Generalizing with Precision

In brief

Paul Elie of Commonweal analyzed the characteristics of trend pieces in journalism, using the 1966 article "Toward a Hidden God" as an example. He noted that such writing often begins with a conclusion and uses questions or paradoxes to frame the narrative.

Elie suggested that trend pieces frequently overstate their cases and present an in-crowd that is ahead of the current moment. He noted that the article in question coincided with a period of significant cultural shifts, including the influence of Dorothy Day, the Second Vatican Council, and the counterculture movement.