Meaning: This quote by Mary Beard, a prominent historian and classicist, reflects her disillusionment with contemporary journalism. In her statement, Beard expresses her dismay at the deteriorating quality of newspaper reporting. She asserts that she finds it "grievous" to read the papers in most respects, indicating a sense of sadness or distress at the state of modern journalism. Beard goes on to explain that she now only skims the headlines, as she believes that one can predict the content of the articles based on her long-standing experience as a reader of the press.

Mary Beard is known for her expertise in ancient history and classical studies, but her commentary on contemporary journalism resonates with a wide audience. The quote reflects a broader concern about the state of the media and the impact of sensationalism, bias, and superficiality on public discourse and the dissemination of information.

Beard's use of the word "grievous" suggests a deep sense of disappointment or even moral outrage at the state of contemporary newspapers. This choice of language conveys the weight of her concern and indicates that she views the situation as a serious issue. By stating that she only skims the headlines, Beard implies that the depth and quality of reporting have declined to the point where the main points can be easily discerned without delving into the full articles.

The phrase "if one has long been a reader of the press journalism" indicates that Beard's perspective is informed by her extensive experience with newspapers. Her comment suggests that over time, she has observed a decline in the quality and integrity of journalism, leading to her current disillusionment with the medium.

Beard's critique of contemporary journalism is particularly relevant in the context of the digital age, where the speed of news dissemination and the competition for readers' attention have led to concerns about accuracy, depth, and context in reporting. The prevalence of clickbait headlines, sensationalism, and the prioritization of entertainment over substantive news has been widely discussed as a challenge to the integrity of journalism.

The quote also raises questions about the responsibilities of journalists and media organizations in providing accurate, balanced, and meaningful reporting. It prompts reflection on the impact of the media landscape on public trust, critical thinking, and the overall health of democratic societies.

In conclusion, Mary Beard's quote reflects a critical perspective on the state of contemporary journalism. Her use of language conveys a deep sense of disappointment and concern, and her commentary prompts important discussions about the role of the media in shaping public discourse and the dissemination of information. As a respected historian, Beard's insights into the challenges facing journalism carry significant weight and serve as a call to action for those concerned with the quality and integrity of news reporting.