John Hersey: The Pioneering Journalist Behind the Hiroshima Bomb
A New Era of Journalism
John Richard Hersey is revered as one of the earliest practitioners of the so-called New Journalism, a style that blended storytelling techniques of fiction with nonfiction reportage. His groundbreaking work, particularly his 1946 article "Hiroshima," is widely regarded as one of the most influential pieces of journalism in the 20th century.
The Early Years
Born on June 17, 1914, in Tianjin, China, to Protestant missionaries Roscoe and Grace Baird Hersey, John was exposed to the Chinese language and culture from a young age. He learned to speak Chinese before English and later drew inspiration from his parents' experiences in his novel "The Call" (1985). Hersey's ancestral roots trace back to William Hersey, one of the first settlers of Hingham, Massachusetts, in 1635.
A Distinguished Education
Hersey's family returned to the United States when he was ten, and he attended public school in Briarcliff Manor, New York. He became an Eagle Scout in his troop and later attended the Hotchkiss School. At Yale University, he was a member of the Skull and Bones Society, played football, and was coached by notable figures such as
Gerald Ford. Hersey went on to study at Clare College, Cambridge, as a Mellon Fellow.
A Career Marked by Innovation
After a brief stint as private secretary and driver for author
Sinclair Lewis in 1937, Hersey began working for Time magazine. His early years at Time laid the foundation for his later success as a pioneer of New Journalism. Hersey's innovative approach to storytelling, which blended literary techniques with factual reporting, elevated his writing and set him apart from his contemporaries.
The Hiroshima Bomb: A Defining Moment
Hersey's 1946 article "Hiroshima," published in The New Yorker, is widely regarded as a masterpiece of New Journalism. The piece, which recounted the experiences of six survivors of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, on August 6, 1945, marked a turning point in Hersey's career. In 1999, a 36-member panel associated with New York University's journalism department declared "Hiroshima" the finest work of American journalism in the 20th century.
Major Works and Career Highlights
- "Hiroshima" (1946) - a groundbreaking article that redefined the boundaries of journalism
- "A Bell for Adano" (1944) - a novel that won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction
- "The Call" (1985) - a novel inspired by his parents' experiences as missionaries in China
Influence and Legacy
Hersey's innovative approach to journalism has inspired generations of writers and reporters. His work has had a lasting impact on the way we tell stories, from the literary techniques used in nonfiction to the importance of humanizing tragedy. Hersey's legacy serves as a testament to the power of effective storytelling in conveying the human experience.
Personal Milestones and Later Life
Hersey married twice, first to Frances Ann Cannon in 1940, and then to Barbara Robbins in 1958. He is survived by his two children, David and Beth. John Hersey passed away on March 24, 1993, leaving behind a trailblazing career that continues to inspire and influence writers and journalists to this day.
FAQ
What was John Herseys contribution to American literature?
John Hersey was an American journalist and author who made significant contributions to American literature. He is best known for his novel Hiroshima, which told the story of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima from the perspective of six survivors.
How did John Herseys reporting style influence American journalism?
John Herseys reporting style was characterized by his commitment to fairness, accuracy, and nuance. He was known for his in-depth reporting and his ability to humanize complex issues, which helped to establish him as a leading journalist of his time.
What were some of John Herseys most notable literary works?
John Herseys most notable literary works include Hiroshima, The Wall, and The Child Buyer. These works demonstrate his ability to tackle complex and controversial subjects with sensitivity and thoughtfulness.
How did John Herseys writing style evolve over time?
John Herseys writing style evolved significantly over the course of his career. He began by writing straightforward news articles, but later experimented with more literary forms, such as the novel and the essay.
What is John Herseys legacy in American literature?
John Herseys legacy in American literature is one of innovation and courage. He is remembered as a pioneering journalist and author who tackled difficult subjects with sensitivity and nuance, and helped to establish a new standard for literary journalism.
