Literary Qualities:
* Exceptional Prose: The writing goes beyond mere clarity and accuracy. It employs vivid language, evocative imagery, and a masterful command of rhythm and tone.
* Compelling Narrative: Even factual material is presented as a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end, engaging the reader emotionally as well as intellectually.
* Deep Insight: The article goes beyond simply reporting facts to offer profound reflections on the subject matter. It reveals truths about human nature, society, or the world at large.
* Original Perspective: The writer brings a unique and insightful perspective to the topic, offering fresh interpretations and challenging conventional wisdom.
* Emotional Resonance: The article evokes strong emotions in the reader, leaving a lasting impact and prompting reflection.
Beyond the Article:
* Impactful Influence: The article has a lasting impact on public discourse, shaping opinions and inspiring action.
* Literary Recognition: The article receives awards and accolades from respected literary organizations.
* Enduring Legacy: The article continues to be read, discussed, and cited years after its publication.
Examples:
* "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot: This groundbreaking article, later expanded into a book, tells the story of a woman whose cancer cells were taken without her knowledge and used in groundbreaking medical research. It's a compelling narrative that raises ethical questions and explores the complexities of science, race, and exploitation.
* "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson: Though technically a short story, "The Lottery" was first published in The New Yorker magazine. Its dark and unsettling exploration of tradition and blind conformity makes it a classic of American literature.
* "The Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck: Originally serialized in The San Francisco News, this epic novel about the Dust Bowl migration became a literary sensation, earning Steinbeck the Pulitzer Prize and influencing public policy.
It's important to note that:
* Literary merit is subjective: What one person considers "literature" another may not.
* Many excellent magazine articles fall short of literary status: They may be well-written and informative but lack the depth, artistry, and lasting impact of true literary works.
Ultimately, whether a nonfiction magazine article is elevated to the level of literature depends on its ability to transcend mere reportage and offer a profound and enduring contribution to human understanding.