An editorial column is an opinion piece about a current issue. It can be written by on staff journalists or external writers who have been invited to contribute. Editorial content is intended to persuade, and can be grouped into four different categories.
An opinion piece expresses a writer’s view about a topic or issue, based on factual evidence and analysis. Unlike news articles, an opinion piece does not carry the journalist’s byline. Instead, it may be credited to “Our View” or the newspaper’s editorial board.
A well-written editorial is a thoughtful, well-formed opinion about a subject that is both balanced and persuasive. It reconciles contradictory viewpoints and posturings, whether between politicians or researchers. Moreover, it is not afraid to stir the pot when necessary.
The best editorials are those that leave an after taste, like a tasty dessert that leaves a satisfying feeling. A good editorial should be such that the reader is held to it until its conclusion, and then he should want to read more of the same sort of writing.
While the editorial should be a literary piece, it must not become drowned in its own language. Just as a beautiful woman in her dress should not overshadow her beauty, the language should not overshadow the thought. Otherwise, the editorial becomes counterproductive.