Carl Sandburg: Reporting for the People

Abstract

Well after Carl Sandburg the poet had been nationally recognized for his writing, Sandburg the journalist continued to work in relative obscurity in Chicago. Sandburg reported for The Day Book, a small experimental newspaper devoted to the working class and determined to turn a profit without advertising. Filling the role of senior reporter, Sandburg harshly criticized department stores over working conditions and wages, and faulted the mainstream Chicago press for its coverage, or lack of coverage, of such news. As a journalist, Sandburg offers a counterpoint to those who would advocate a passive approach in reporting and to those who would let entertainment and gossip masquerade as news worthy of being published.