Strictly Speaking, I’ll Miss Ed Newman
September 17, 2010
What passes for journalism today would have received a failing grade in the days of Edwin Newman. Who? Ed Newman, the news of whose death in August was announced yesterday, would never have made it in what passes for journalism today.
Ed was a wonderful writer and human being. In an industry full of over-inflated egos, Ed was a modest man. He let his work and his life speak for him. He was like Calvin Coolidge: he spoke only when he had something to say. And because of that, when he did speak, many listened.
His books "Strictly Speaking" and "A Civil Tongue" were favorites of mine because they taught about writing and avoiding clichés. Modern journalists should revisit those books.
Ed lived in England and died at 91. If you aren't old enough to have seen or read his work, you can still read his books. Whether you are a writer or not, you will benefit from knowing this man of integrity.
Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.
Originally published September 17, 2010.
