As “Around the Horn” signs off, we reflect on how a sports debate show sparked the dreams of aspiring writers and became a cliché turned classic. Its legacy endures, reminding us of the profound impact media can have on personal and professional lives.
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Key Takeaways:
- “Around the Horn” has concluded its run on ESPN.
- The show inspired many, including the writer, to pursue sportswriting.
- Andrew Marchand noted the show’s decline in recent years.
- Clichés can evolve from valuable to overused, altering perceptions.
- Despite criticisms, the show’s legacy remains significant.
Farewell to ‘Around the Horn’
The morning feels different knowing that “Around the Horn,” the ESPN show that inspired a generation of sportswriters, has aired its final episode. For many, including myself, it wasn’t just a show—it was the spark that ignited a passion for sports journalism.
A Personal Inspiration
“RIP to ‘Around the Horn,’ the ESPN show that frankly made me want to pursue sportswriting.” These words echo the sentiments of countless fans who found their calling through the spirited debates and insightful commentary the show provided. It was more than entertainment; it was a masterclass in sports discourse.
Andrew Marchand’s Reflections
Media critic Andrew Marchand writes that the show lost its way in recent years. While acknowledging its decline, he notes that such a trajectory doesn’t diminish its initial impact. “The show lost its way, but that won’t change its place in my heart,” resonates with those who cherished its golden years.
The Paradox of Clichés
“I often think about how the term ‘cliché’ can be misconstrued,” the writer muses. An idea becomes a cliché because it resonates so widely that it becomes ubiquitous, perhaps even overused. Yet, the very essence that made it powerful shouldn’t be overlooked. Sometimes, a cliché was so good initially that it became bad, not because it lacked value, but because it became too familiar.
The Enduring Legacy
Despite its perceived decline, the legacy of “Around the Horn” endures. It taught us that spirited debate and diverse perspectives enrich the sports narrative. The show’s format may have become familiar, even cliché, but its influence on sports media and aspiring writers remains profound.
Closing a Chapter
As we bid farewell to “Around the Horn,” we close a significant chapter in sports media. Its end prompts reflection on how it shaped our understanding of sports journalism and inspired many to follow their passions. While the show may no longer air, its impact lives on in the voices it helped cultivate and the conversations it sparked.
