A day with John Diaz

John Diaz

San Francisco Chronicle Opinion page editor John Diaz, (no relation to my mother’s side of the family, but it would be cool if he was) came to our opinion writing class and talked about some of his experiences in journalism and opinion writing.
Mr. Diaz spoke to us about the importance of voice in opinion writing. It is true to have some sort of voice or style in journalism, but what I have really learned from Mr. Diaz and Professor Yumi Wilson is that voice and style really needs to come out in opinion writing. I also mention Professor Wilson because she emphasized in her literary journalism class last semester that it is important to develop a style and voice inside those types of stories as well.
I also have to say, John is also one of the best speakers I’ve seen. He’s animated. He’s an all around cool guy and a great writer.

One major point he made, out of many was to not hold back on our voice. And he made it really clear to read our pieces out loud to find out where that voice is. If it doesn’t fell natural, the voice is not there.

I admire Mr. Diaz and Professor Wilson. They are awesome.
Here are some pictures from John Diaz’s visit