Meaning: This quote by Joe Sacco, a renowned journalist and comic book artist, offers an insightful perspective on the challenges of interviewing people in positions of power. Sacco's words reflect the notion that individuals in powerful positions often present a carefully curated image to the public, making it difficult for journalists to uncover new and surprising information without establishing a deep level of trust and proximity. This quote encapsulates the complex dynamics and inherent difficulties of conducting interviews with influential figures, shedding light on the nuanced nature of journalism and the pursuit of uncovering the truth.

In the realm of journalism, conducting interviews with "bigwigs" or individuals in positions of power is often seen as a crucial aspect of uncovering newsworthy information and gaining insights into important issues. However, Sacco's statement suggests that such interviews may not always lead to groundbreaking revelations. The phrase "you are seldom surprised by people in power" implies that those in influential positions are adept at controlling their public image and may not readily reveal unexpected or unscripted information during interviews.

Sacco's assertion that one "has to get awfully damn close to get anything new" speaks to the idea that genuine and impactful revelations often require a deep level of intimacy and access. This could refer to the need for journalists to build trust and rapport with their subjects over time, gaining insight into their inner thoughts and motivations. It also underscores the importance of proximity and personal connection in the pursuit of unearthing newsworthy information from individuals in positions of power.

The quote reflects the challenges and complexities inherent in the field of journalism, particularly when it comes to interviewing powerful figures. It highlights the need for journalists to go beyond surface-level interactions and strive to establish close relationships with their subjects in order to elicit genuine and candid responses. This aligns with the principles of investigative journalism, which often require journalists to delve deep into their subjects' lives and thought processes to uncover the truth.

Additionally, Sacco's words shed light on the inherent difficulties of navigating power dynamics in the interview process. Individuals in positions of power may exercise control over the information they divulge, making it challenging for journalists to break through the carefully constructed facade and unearth genuine, unfiltered insights. This speaks to the broader issue of transparency and accountability in public discourse, highlighting the need for journalists to persistently pursue the truth and hold powerful figures accountable.

In conclusion, Joe Sacco's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the challenges of interviewing individuals in positions of power. It underscores the complexities of journalistic endeavors and the need for persistence, intimacy, and trust in the pursuit of uncovering newsworthy information. By acknowledging the difficulties of eliciting surprising revelations from powerful figures, Sacco's words provide valuable insight into the intricate dynamics of journalism and the quest for truth in the public sphere.