Journalism and Power

Where it surfaces

• Psmith, Journalist

  Psmith and Billy use the power of the press to challenge corrupt landlords and gang violence.

• Cosy Moments

  The chapter introduces Cosy Moments as a domestic paper founded as an antidote to yellow journalism, and shows the editor's control over content and the tension between editorial vision and the realities of running a paper.

• Planning Improvements

  Psmith and Billy plan to use Cosy Moments as a tool for exposing wrongdoing and championing the people's rights, illustrating the transformative potential of the press.

• The Tenements

  The overhaul of Cosy Moments and the plan to use the paper as a tool for exposing slum conditions highlights the power of journalism to effect change.

• Visitors at the Office

  Psmith's handling of the angry contributors highlights the tension between journalistic ambition and the backlash from those exposed.

• The Honeyed Word

  Psmith's diplomatic handling of the contributors' revolt illustrates the behind-the-scenes maneuvering and authority struggles in a newspaper office.

• Full Steam Ahead

  The chapter highlights the power of the press to investigate and expose social injustices, using Cosy Moments as a platform.

• X: Going Some

  The chapter highlights the power of the press to expose corruption and the attempts to silence it through bribery.

• The Man at the Astor

  The tenement exposé puts the editors in conflict with a wealthy backer who uses gangs to silence them, highlighting the risks of investigative journalism.

• A Red Taximeter

  The surveillance suggests that their investigative work on the tenement exposé has attracted powerful enemies, highlighting the risks journalists face.

• XIV: The Highfield

  Cosy Moments' backing of Kid Brady is a key plot point; the fight's outcome is seen as an omen for the newspaper's fortunes.

• Guerilla Warfare

  The chapter highlights the challenges of investigative journalism when facing organized opposition, as the paper's distribution is sabotaged and the editors must find new ways to expose the truth.

• Concerning Mr. Waring

  The chapter shows how the press can expose political corruption, as Psmith and Billy plan to use the evidence against Waring to influence the election.

• Reductions in the Staff

  The raids and searches are orchestrated by enemies to suppress the newspaper's exposé, showing the conflict between journalism and corrupt power.

• XXVIII: Standing Room Only

  The chapter highlights the struggle for control of Cosy Moments, with Psmith asserting his authority as acting editor and defending the paper's new sensationalist direction against the traditionalist Wilberfloss.

• The Knockout for Mr. Waring

  Psmith's acquisition of Cosy Moments demonstrates how ownership of a newspaper can shift power dynamics and influence reform.