Meaning: This quote by Tom Brokaw, a renowned journalist, encapsulates the essence of the media's responsibility to provide coherent and contextual information to the public. Brokaw's words emphasize the importance of presenting news and events in a way that helps the audience understand the significance and implications of the information being shared. In essence, it highlights the journalist's duty to not only report the news but also to provide the necessary framework and context for the audience to comprehend the broader implications of the events being covered.

In today's fast-paced media landscape, where information is readily accessible through various platforms, the need for coherent and contextual reporting is more crucial than ever. With the constant influx of news and the potential for misinformation to spread rapidly, journalists play a vital role in sifting through the noise and presenting the public with accurate and meaningful content. Brokaw's quote serves as a reminder that the ultimate goal of journalism is to make sense of complex events and present them in a way that helps the audience grasp their significance.

The phrase "put this in a coherent form for them at the end of the day" suggests that journalists have the responsibility to distill complex information into a coherent narrative that the audience can understand. This process involves synthesizing disparate facts and events into a cohesive story that provides clarity and insight. By doing so, journalists can help the public make sense of the world around them and navigate the complexities of current events.

Furthermore, Brokaw's reference to "big events" highlights the significance of providing context for major news stories. When major events unfold, such as natural disasters, political upheavals, or significant developments in global affairs, the public relies on the media to not only report the basic facts but also to provide the necessary background and context to understand the broader implications. Contextualizing big events involves delving into the historical, social, and political factors that contribute to the current situation, thereby enriching the audience's understanding of the event.

In the realm of journalism, the concept of context is essential for fostering informed citizenship and promoting critical thinking. By presenting news within a broader context, journalists empower their audience to form educated opinions and engage with the world around them in a meaningful way. Contextual reporting encourages the public to consider the multifaceted nature of events, understand the underlying causes and consequences, and evaluate the implications for society at large.

Ultimately, Brokaw's quote underscores the fundamental principles of responsible and impactful journalism. It serves as a reminder that the media's role goes beyond simply relaying information; it encompasses the duty to provide coherence and context, enabling the audience to comprehend the significance of events and make informed decisions. In an era marked by information overload and rapid news cycles, the importance of coherent and contextual reporting cannot be overstated. It is through this approach that journalism fulfills its crucial function of enlightening and empowering the public.