Meaning: This quote by James Bennett, an editor, delves into the concept of over-verification in journalism and the potential negative impact it can have on a newspaper story. In the context of journalism, verification is the process of confirming the accuracy and truthfulness of information before publishing it. While verification is an essential aspect of responsible journalism, Bennett's quote suggests that excessive verification can actually detract from the quality and impact of a news story.

One interpretation of this quote is that the pursuit of absolute certainty and verification can lead to a delay in publishing important news stories. In the fast-paced world of journalism, time is of the essence, and a story that is excessively verified may lose its relevance or significance by the time it is ready for publication. This can be particularly relevant in breaking news situations or stories with time-sensitive information.

Moreover, over-verification can also lead to a lack of agility and adaptability in journalism. The constant need to cross-check information and verify every detail can hinder the ability of journalists to swiftly report on unfolding events. In a digital age where news is disseminated rapidly through various platforms, being overly cautious with verification can result in missed opportunities to provide timely and crucial information to the public.

Additionally, the quote may also allude to the risk of losing the essence and immediacy of a story through excessive fact-checking. The raw emotions, firsthand accounts, and real-time impact of an event can be diluted if journalists become overly focused on verification to the point of losing the human element of the story. This can result in a news piece that, while technically accurate, lacks the depth and authenticity that comes from capturing the rawness of an event as it unfolds.

It's important to note that while Bennett's quote highlights the potential pitfalls of over-verification, it doesn't diminish the importance of accuracy and truth in journalism. Rather, it serves as a reminder that there needs to be a balance between thorough verification and the timely dissemination of information. Journalists must strive to uphold the highest standards of accuracy while also recognizing the need to provide timely and relevant news to their audience.

In conclusion, James Bennett's quote sheds light on the delicate balance that journalists must strike between thorough verification and the timely delivery of news stories. While accuracy and truthfulness are paramount in journalism, an excessive focus on verification can hinder the agility, relevance, and authenticity of news reporting. This quote serves as a reminder for journalists to navigate the fine line between meticulous fact-checking and the imperative of delivering impactful and timely news to their audience.