Introduction
For many Latin American journalists, growing up meant having a New Yorker in their pillow, dreaming of writing for the most prestigious cultural magazine in the world. However, journalist Alma Guillermoprieto’s claim resonates differently with others. In Mexico, publications like Proceso or Contenido shaped political readers and future journalists. For my generation, Switch, Rolling Stone, Gatopardo, Día Siete, and La Mosca en la Pared contributed to our journalistic quirks as much as television and social media, especially Twitter and Tumblr.
The New Yorker’s Legacy
A friend who studied journalism at Columbia once entered Condé Nast, the legendary company that publishes Vogue and The New Yorker. He entered the New Yorker’s offices with the idea of an internship, describing the cartoon selection process. He left unfulfilled, as the atmosphere was not what he expected – just like any other newsroom. The New Yorker’s staff were hardworking journalists, not divine beings.
Throughout the 20th century, The New Yorker was the magazine where aspiring American literary figures had to publish to make it big. Writers like Robert Frost, J.D. Salinger, and Dorothy Parker built their careers by publishing short stories and poetry in The New Yorker. Once the magazine featured your work, literary agents and publishers would soon follow.
Cultural Impact
The New Yorker’s influence extends beyond the United States, shaping how entire countries and regions are perceived by its elite, wine-sipping readership. The magazine’s pompous style, such as adding diacritical marks to words like “Grëek,” lends it credibility among its elitist audience. The New Yorker and The New York Times are considered bastions of liberal, progressive voices in American journalism, though both have been known to distort facts for ideological reasons.
Jon Lee Anderson and The New Yorker’s Latin American Coverage
Jon Lee Anderson, The New Yorker’s Latin American correspondent, is hailed as the epitome of a brave reporter. He has interviewed Taliban members and Hugo Chávez’s psychiatrist. Anderson is seen as the authoritative voice on Latin America for American audiences, though his perspective often reflects a gringo’s romanticized view of the region.
The New Yorker champions Anderson’s unique perspective, claiming unparalleled insight and courage. However, critics argue that his viewpoint is colored by a distinctly American ideology.
The New Yorker’s Influence on Latin American Journalism
The New Yorker’s legacy in Latin America is evident in journalists like Alma Guillermoprieto, Juan Villoro, and Martín Caparrós. The magazine’s influence is seen in the narrative journalism style, with its anglicisms and aspirations towards New York’s gritty voices.
There is a growing trend in Latin American narrative journalism, driven by younger reporters who are fluent in English. They look up to The New Yorker and The New York Times as models, eagerly awaiting acceptance letters from these esteemed publications.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the significance of The New Yorker for Latin American journalists? A: While The New Yorker has been influential, many Latin American journalists grew up reading different publications that shaped their perspectives and writing styles.
- Q: How does The New Yorker impact Latin American coverage? A: Jon Lee Anderson’s reporting, though respected, often reflects a gringo perspective on the region.
- Q: What is The New Yorker’s legacy in Latin America? A: Its influence is evident in narrative journalism, with anglicisms and aspirations towards New York’s distinct voices.
- Q: How can Latin American journalism evolve? A: Embracing local voices and styles, moving away from English-influenced writing, could help Latin American journalism find its unique identity.
