Meaning: The quote "What interested me was not news, but appraisal. What I sought was to grasp the flavor of a man, his texture, his impact, what he stood for, what he believed in, what made him what he was and what color he gave to the fabric of his time." by John Gunther, a journalist, encapsulates the essence of in-depth reporting and storytelling. It reflects the idea that beyond just reporting facts and events, there is a deeper desire to understand and convey the essence of a person, their influence, and the context in which they exist.

John Gunther, known for his work as a foreign correspondent and author, was renowned for his ability to capture the intricacies of personalities and their impact on the world. This quote demonstrates his approach to journalism, emphasizing the importance of going beyond the surface to uncover the underlying significance of individuals and their contributions to society.

Gunther's emphasis on "appraisal" over "news" highlights the distinction between mere reporting of events and the deeper analysis and understanding of the people and their impact. It speaks to the idea that the true essence of a story lies not just in the events themselves, but in the individuals involved and their unique qualities.

The phrase "to grasp the flavor of a man, his texture, his impact" conveys the depth of understanding that Gunther sought to achieve in his work. It suggests a multi-dimensional approach to storytelling, one that delves into the nuances of a person's character, their influence on others, and the broader implications of their actions.

Furthermore, Gunther's mention of "what he stood for, what he believed in" underscores the importance of exploring the values and principles that define a person. This aspect of appraisal goes beyond surface-level descriptions and delves into the motivations and ideologies that drive individuals to make a difference in the world.

The quote also touches on the concept of individuals shaping the "fabric of his time," emphasizing the interconnectedness of people and the impact they have on the society in which they live. Gunther recognized the significance of individuals in shaping the course of history and sought to convey this through his writing.

In a broader context, this quote speaks to the essence of human interest storytelling, a genre of journalism that focuses on the personal and often emotional aspects of news stories. It emphasizes the human experience and aims to connect readers to the individuals at the heart of the story.

In conclusion, John Gunther's quote embodies the spirit of in-depth journalism, emphasizing the importance of understanding the individuals who shape our world. It reflects a commitment to going beyond the surface to uncover the essence of a person, their impact, and the broader significance of their contributions. Gunther's approach serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to convey not just the facts, but the depth and complexity of the human experience.