My Journalism Heroine

The writing styles of of many journalists have inspired my personal work. However, the writings and works of Nellie Bly (a.k.a. Elizabeth Cochrane Seaman) have inspired me most. Her voice stood out in her stories, and the creativity she had with story ideas amazes me. I am still shocked by Bly's story about insane asylums. To willingly emerge one's self in that environment in the name of journalism is just astounding. Without a doubt, Bly was a daredevil reporter and took on any and every task to tell her story. She really paved the way for women journalists and set the bar high for present and future reporters not just in writing but in creativity, as well.
One of my favorite quotes by Nellie Bly is as follows:

"It is only after one is in trouble that one realizes how little sympathy and kindness there are in the world."
 
I hold this quote to be very true, especially in today's society. It is hard to ask people for help sometimes, because people act as if they are being bothered. There are people out there who will help at the drop of a hat, but some will only help if and when it is at their convenience.

Bly was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1998. The following is a link to her page on the Hall's website:
Nellie Bly in the National Women's Hall of Fame

The following is an excerpt from Nellie Bly's "Ten Days in a Mad-House:"

"My instructions were simply to go on with my work as soon as I felt that I was ready. I was to chronicle faithfully the experiences I underwent, and when once within the walls of the asylum to find out and describe its inside workings, which are always, so effectually hidden by white-capped nurses, as well as by bolts and bars, from the knowledge of the public. "We do not ask you to go there for the purpose of making sensational revelations. Write up things as you find them, good or bad; give praise or blame as you think best, and the truth all the time. But I am afraid of that chronic smile of yours," said the editor. "I will smile no more," I said, and I went away to execute my delicate and, as I found out, difficult mission."