* Urgency: Journalism is about reporting on events as they unfold, often with tight deadlines. The need to get information out quickly means there's less time for extensive research, reflection, or polishing compared to traditional literary works.
* Ephemeral: News stories are often tied to the moment. They may lose relevance quickly, replaced by newer developments. Unlike books or poems, which can endure for years, journalism is often consumed and discarded rapidly.
* Conciseness: Journalism prioritizes clarity and brevity. It aims to convey information quickly and efficiently. While literature might indulge in complex metaphors or elaborate descriptions, journalism relies on clear, concise language.
* Storytelling: Despite the urgency, good journalism is still about telling a compelling story. It uses the elements of narrative—characters, plot, conflict, and resolution—to engage the reader and convey important information.
The phrase "literature in a hurry" isn't meant to imply that journalism is inferior to literature. Rather, it acknowledges that journalism has its own unique form and function. It's a powerful tool for informing the public, even if it doesn't have the same time for deliberate craft as more traditional literary forms.