Jason Whitlock’s column
i recently read Jason Whitlock’s story “Dress code — not Jazzy Jeff — is P&L District’s real problem” in the Kansas City Star and think it is a good column to look to as an example.
Jason Whitlock is a prominent sports columnist for the Kansas City Star, but this piece is about something entirely different. it focuses on his experiences in the new Power & Light District in downtown Kansas City, as well as his clash with its dress code.
the piece is a prime column example because it uses strong language in the lead and then follows with a strong, opinionated thesis statement. he even accuses the entire district of blatant, if unintended, racism.
he then outlines his evening in the Power & Light District with vivid details that paint a clear picture of his experience. he includes allusions to common cultural elements in Kansas City that readers would appreciate. throughout the piece, he uses easy-to-read language that flows well, using idioms and familiar language to make it sound like he is simply having a conversation with us. (He uses this way of writing as opposed to obeying strict grammar rules.) in the piece, Whitlock uses his experience to back up his thesis statement.
Whitlock then added quotations–or lack thereof–from pertinent sources
he concludes the piece by admitting that he understands those who favor a dress code, but he says that he believes that it is not being carried out in a effective, or fair, way.
all of these aspects make for an excellent opinion column.
