Research and Exploration


16 votes, average: 3.31 out of 516 votes, average: 3.31 out of 516 votes, average: 3.31 out of 516 votes, average: 3.31 out of 516 votes, average: 3.31 out of 5 (16 votes, average: 3.31 out of 5)
You need to be a registered member to rate this post.
Loading ... Loading ...

Most of my posts come from conducting independent research, but a fair percentage also come from reading a passage in someone else’s work. Where the other writers stop is the jumping off point for me. I like to venture wide and deep, explore all the angles, ask the questions, bounce ideas off a couple of trusted advisers, and see where it all leads.

One minute I’ll have an idea percolating, the next I’m typing as fast as I can. Then it’s off on a Google search here, a golf web site there, looking to build on the idea and add layer upon layer to the story. I follow my subconscious blueprint for doing a story, letting the momentum and the flow take me where it will. As pieces fall into place, the excitement grows.

For example, I was working on a story on Tiger Woods’ recent surgery on his left knee. The mainstream media was totally focused on the success of the surgery, his recovery, and when he was expected back in action. I, on the other hand, questioned his timing. I felt the real story was not in the basics parroted across the net, but that he had timed his surgery so poorly — right in the middle of the golf season.

Woods could have had his procedure in the off season. This would have given him at least four months to return to full strength for a vigorous campaign in 2008. Though I felt my position was valid, it needed some oomph. So I went on a treasure hunt. I ventured through countless stories, until I came across a jewel — a quote from his agent that said surgery was recommended to him in the middle of last year. Bingo!

I don’t know what Columbus felt like when he came upon America, but at that moment I was on top of the world. I said, “Yes, this is perfect.”

There are countless activities that go into producing a story, but one of the most satisfying is the thrill of the hunt. As I embark on an exploration I never know exactly where or when I’ll find that perfect quote or tidbit of information. But when I do, I light up inside because I know how much it will mean to the story, and to the readers’ experience.

Phil Capelle
Capelle on Golf

——–

Want to enter to win a free trip to Bankok? Enter the Spirit of Exploration contest by clicking here.

June 02 2008 08:00 am | Sapphire Drinks

Leave a Reply

  • James Moreland

    A premiere mixologist whose inspired cocktails have graced the front pages of The New York Times and Wall Street Journal, James Moreland is one of this generation’s leading spirits authorities. He has been a bartending fixture in New York City for more than eight years — most notably as head bartender at the famed, mixology-forward Town bar.

    Moreland’s mastery at blending flavors and textures, creating a taste experience, and enhancing the cocktail moment is beyond compare — especially when it comes to gin, his spirit of choice. He continues to surprise and attract a regular fan base with his ingenious and luxurious style of cocktail apothecary.

    Milo

    Milo has spent the last seven years working as head bartender / mixologist in some in some of the finest dining establishments and bars in the United Kingdom, including The Player, Milk ‘n Honey, Sosho (Match Bar Group), Crazy Bear. Most recently, he has worked with Gordon Ramsay’s new bar and restaurant, and Angela Hartnett’s Cielo in Boca Raton, Florida.

    Milo’s passion for mixology – combined with his superior cocktail creations – has earned him numerous awards, including first place at the Mozart Liqueurs 2006 UK Competition, as well as Drinks International magazine’s Best Bartender of 2006. Milo is also a published photographer, with his cocktail images appearing in Heat magazine, as well as Oxford and Sauce Guide to Cocktails.


  • Categories