Meaning: The quote by Mike Royko, a well-known American journalist and columnist, reflects on the changes in journalism over the past four decades. Royko, who was known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary, highlights a shift in the mindset of reporters and editors from a more forgiving and less sensationalist approach to journalism to one that seeks to expose and condemn public figures. This shift in perspective has had a profound impact on the nature of news reporting and the relationship between the media and public figures.

In the "Front Page era," which Royko refers to, journalism was characterized by a different ethos. The Front Page era, which roughly corresponds to the mid-20th century, was a time when newspapers were a dominant force in shaping public opinion and news reporting. Reporters and editors operated with a different point of view, one that was perhaps more lenient and less inclined towards sensationalism. This period was characterized by a more forgiving attitude towards public figures, and journalists did not feel the need to resort to extreme measures or tactics to make a name for themselves.

Royko's reference to sticking someone in jail to make a career alludes to the sensationalist and aggressive tactics that have become more prevalent in modern journalism. The idea that journalists may be driven by a desire to secure headline-grabbing stories, even at the expense of fairness or the well-being of the subjects involved, speaks to a broader concern about the ethics and integrity of contemporary journalism.

The quote implies that there has been a noticeable shift in the approach to reporting over the past forty years. In the present day, media coverage often seems to prioritize scandal and controversy, and public figures are subjected to intense scrutiny and criticism. The rise of 24-hour news cycles, social media, and the increasing commercialization of journalism have all contributed to this shift. As a result, public figures are under constant pressure, and the public is bombarded with sensationalized stories that may not always provide a balanced or accurate representation of the truth.

Royko's commentary on the changing nature of journalism raises important questions about the role and responsibility of the media in society. While the press plays a crucial role in holding public figures accountable and uncovering corruption and wrongdoing, there is also a need for balance and fairness in reporting. The quote suggests that the media's pursuit of sensational stories and its willingness to vilify public figures have come at the cost of a more forgiving and nuanced approach to reporting.

In conclusion, Mike Royko's quote provides a thought-provoking commentary on the evolution of journalism and the changing attitudes of reporters and editors towards public figures. It highlights a shift from a more forgiving and less sensationalist approach to journalism to one that is characterized by aggressive tactics and an inclination towards scandal and controversy. This shift has significant implications for the nature of news reporting and the relationship between the media and public figures, raising important questions about the ethics and responsibility of the press.