Refreshing The News

Saturday, September 10, 2022

This week’s news is an example of how modern communications keep us informed and has changed us.

Queen Elizabeth II’s death two days ago was no surprise. After all, she was 96 years old. Truth be told, there seemed an element of staging immediately preceding her passing. A day before her death, Elizabeth appeared small and assisted by a cane in a photo; and seemed capable while warmly greeting the brand new British Prime Minister.

Following the photo opp, Elizabeth was rushed back to her Scotland home, to die, and did the next day.

Since that bit of staging before her death, all media are reporting on Elizabeth’s life. Media are running old and new footage, gathering reflections of those who worked with the Queen, and emphasizing her exemplary character, dedicated career, and critical family episodes.

In fact, we already know all that. Since the mid-forties, Elizabeth has been on the public stage. During her tenure, technology has advanced. She’s been revealed and reported on, in all her critical decisions and moves. We’ve often re-heard her initial address to the nation, promising to “do her duty” in her important new role. We’ve seen pomp and circumstances, witnessed her children growing and handling their lives relatively well or screwing up, and observed Elizabeth’s personal conflicts in touchy times, like the immediate period after Diana’s death.

We have seen it all, know it all. We’re now being bombarded by old sights, sounds, and familiar impressions.

I am attracted to obituaries for the famous because I’m curious about elements in their lives and accomplishments. I’m interested in knowing about their families, childhoods, and educations.

Modern technology doesn’t protect the privacy of individuals. We already know almost everything about Queen Elizabeth. Her life has been available, in reality, or as staged in screenplays. Radio and video have captured her. Now, reporting faces challenges in using historical documentation to recapture and re-engage the public.

Reporting on her passing reveals a need to improve technological and human interfacing. The process needs a boost that more capably turns “old news” into communications that can stimulate renewed interest and greater thoughtfulness.

Dear Friends: We are finding that mass communication needs updating. Diana