Dissection of a Travel Feature

Right now, my home state of Louisiana is hosting the biggest party in the U.S. No, not an Oscar Party…Mardi Gras!!! The official holiday is Tuesday, but festivities and parades are going strong.

Wayne Curtis, of the New York Times, was nice enough to highlight one of the most culturally rich establishments of Mardi Gras season: the Zulu parade. Also, he cleverly used the Wall Street Journal formula.

Criteria #1: Descriptive lead gives specific example
Curtis illustrates an out-of-towner’s typical reaction to the Zulu parade. “Look for those who seem perplexed about what to do with their hands. Applaud? Or cover their mouths in shock,” Wayne says.


Criteria #2: Nut graf relates example to main point of story
Curtis uses the out-of-towner’s reaction to segue into an explanation of how the Zulu Krewe has raised eyebrows over its 100-year history—a theme that is celebrated in their centennial celebration and corresponding museum exhibition. Members of the predominantly black Zulu Krewe literally wear stereotypes, such as blackface.

Criteria #3: Supportive facts, quotes, etc.
Naturally, the story body is full of interesting facts about the origin and development of the The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club who organize the Zulu Krewe and Zulu parade.

Criteria #4: End has anecdote featuring example/person in lead
Finally, the author wraps it up with a question and answer: “So what should you do with your hands when the Zulus roll by?” Referring back to the lead and the perplexed out-of-towner, Curtis says, “That’s simple. Raise them high, and shout for a coconut.”