A Narrative Look at the Regional Voice of Political Columnist Molly Ivins

Abstract

Mass communication research that focuses on analyzing the opinion writing of prominent columnists is nearly non-existent. The columns of Austin, Texas-based nationally syndicated columnist Molly Ivins are studied, looking primarily at how her distinctive style, comprised of humor, strong language and regional dialect, has contributed to her columns about national politics. Narrative analysis is used to examine the ideological structure of her opinion writing, and to determine how these stylistic elements have broadened the appeal of her columns and contributed to the development of her singular, American voice.