Meaning: The quote "For a while there, I was a stringer. The expression comes from the old habit of stringing together the column inches that you had written. They'd measure it and pay you 10 cents an inch for your printed copy" by Charles Kuralt refers to his experience as a stringer in the field of journalism. The term "stringer" has its origins in the practice of physically stringing together the column inches of an article that a freelance journalist or correspondent had written. This practice allowed for easy measurement of the length of the piece, which determined the payment the writer would receive.

In journalism, a stringer is a freelance reporter or correspondent who contributes news stories, features, or other content to a publication or news organization on a per-piece or part-time basis. Stringers are often hired to cover local events, stories, or developments in areas where the news organization does not have a full-time staff member. This allows news organizations to have coverage in a wide range of locations without the cost of maintaining full-time staff in every area.

The practice of paying stringers based on the length of their printed copy was common in the past, particularly in the era of print newspapers. As Kuralt mentions, he would be compensated at a rate of 10 cents per inch of printed copy. This payment method incentivized stringers to produce longer articles, as their earnings were directly tied to the length of their work. However, this approach also placed a focus on quantity over quality, as writers may have been motivated to prioritize length over substance in order to maximize their earnings.

While the specific payment method described by Kuralt may be less common in modern journalism, the role of stringers remains important in the media industry. With the rise of digital media, the landscape of freelance journalism has evolved, and many stringers now contribute content for online publications, blogs, and news websites. The advent of digital platforms has expanded the opportunities for stringers to reach a wider audience and provide diverse perspectives on local and global events.

Stringers play a valuable role in journalism by offering on-the-ground reporting, local insights, and niche expertise. They often cover stories that may not receive attention from full-time journalists, bringing attention to important issues and events in their communities. Additionally, stringers can provide a valuable link between major news organizations and local audiences, helping to bridge the gap between national or international news coverage and local interests.

In conclusion, Charles Kuralt's reflection on his experience as a stringer sheds light on the historical payment practices in journalism and the role of freelance correspondents in the industry. While the method of paying based on column inches may have evolved, the contributions of stringers continue to be essential in providing diverse and comprehensive news coverage. Their work enriches the media landscape by bringing attention to local stories, perspectives, and voices that might otherwise go unheard.