Dumb Questions

“Most reporters eventually figure out that the dumb question is a powerful tool of inquiry. Kind people know it, too, and still practice the art. In its disarming way, the dumb question produces answers that the subject isn’t tired of answering. It turns the interview into a conversation. It invites rather than antagonizes. What’s worse than an interviewer who tries to cram everything they already know into the question? (You’re all too nice to name a prime example, but I’m not: Chuck Todd.)”

—Hank Stuever, Style editor, “Larry King’s long run made the case that there’s no such thing as a dumb question,” The Washington Post, Jan. 24, 2021.

 

 

• Editorial Comment: Now, now . . . If you can't say anything nice.

 

 

 

PeezPIX

 

 Wood’s Edge

 

 

 

 

 

In February’s Senior News . . . All You Need Is Love.

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“I don’t think writers are sacred, but words are. They deserve respect. If you get the right ones, in the right order, you can nudge the world a little.” —Tom Stoppard