NPR Radio Interview Analysis

During the interview of Andrew Solomon, author of “The Reckoning: The Father of the Sandy Hook Killer Searches for Answers”, Terry Gross strategically asked questions to help listeners gain a better understanding of the initial interview of Peter Lanza and what lead to the Sandy Hook tragedy. Gross conducted substantial research prior to the interview. She was knowledgeable of facts about the event, history of Adam Lanzas’ medical condition, facts about the Aspergers Syndrome and how the condition manifests in others whom suffer from similar conditions, and insight on the Lanza family before the murder took place.

The questions Gross asked were very strategic and well planned out. She used the history of the subject to form questions that the public wouldn’t even think to ask. Not only did she ask questions we all were curious of, but she also went deeper in the heart of the problem to see what the cause of the murders were. She asked questions like: How did Peter Lanza look when he stated that he wishes his son was never born? This brought a different element to the interview. It takes the listener to that place with Solomon as if we were sitting right beside him during the interview.

Although the main question “why did Adam do it” remained inconclusive, Gross handled the lack of an answer by asking Solomon what he thought the reason was. This was a great tactic to use in this case. She wanted to give insight on why the murders were committed and did just that. She was able to connect Adam’s medical history, to his relationship with loved ones , and back to the event all through a series of questions.

I learned that one must go into an interview with substantial preparation and research on the subject matter. Without research, the questions will become flat and lack depth to the answers. I also learned, in order to have a successful interview, you must be willing to have a backup plan just in case the interviewee refuses to answer your question. Rephrasing or having multiple ways of asking a question can be very beneficial.  

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