The Best American Sports Writing Analysis 1
Plaschke: The core value and theme of this chapter is that baseball is more than just a national pastime. It is something that creates nostalgia and get engraved in the brain for later purpose. Plaschke explains through example how much of an impact baseball has had on those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s, and that no matter what form it has life long impact. The context in relation to society is a little off because these interviews were done pre-covid where none of that would be allowed to happen right now. Although, it is quite relative due to the fact that dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases are not cured. This has potential for a multi-platform society if pictures, b-roll, and video clips were added. It would make for a great story on social media and the news.
Rothbart: The core value and theme of this chapter is perserverance and determination. Rothbart explains that in order to be an olympic athlete, one must train extensively in one sport. Elizabeth Swaney breaks that mold and created a new first for olympics. She trained in multiple sports and tried out for numerous countries and sporting teams to represent. The context in relation to society is still very relevant in how people from all over — olympian or not they train hard in the one thing they want to do in life. Rothbart describes this with such detail that anyone can relate to Swaney’s story and fight. This will definitely flourish in a multi-platform society. Any story that mentions the Olympics gets a lot of attention online. Social media and news channels would devoir this story with video, interviews and pictures.
Franco: The core value and theme of this chapter is resilience and hope. Franco depicts what life is like in Juarez, Mexico and how it is a dark, scary place. He also paints a picture of what life is like when it was full of life, hosting a top soccer team. In his words, there is always a sense of hope a longing for a better life. The context in relation to society is real being that this is based on someone’s life and an actual place. Again, this story would receive publicity in a multi-platform society. Adding interviews, pictures, and b-roll.
