The LAT's top writer moves on, and burns some bridges...

...Pulitzer winner Dan Neil, IMO the No. 1 writer at the paper, is jumping to the WSJ. And he explains why in a fantastic inter-office memo today.

http://www.laobserved.com/archive/2010/02/dan_neil_hits_the_road_lo.php#more

 

I don't think any bridges are burned. That's one hell of a memo.

 

To cross threads a little: This thread headline really does need some engangered copy editor to get to work on it.

That memo didn't burn any bridges -- none that matter to Dan Neil, anyway. Heck, it's practically a love letter -- and one that expresses the sentiments of many who have left the LAT in the past few years.

It'll earn him a standing O as he walks out the door from anyone still left in the building.

And besides, Neil's stuff still will get priority there...Remember what paper recently was given rights to the most important press runs at the LAT...

 

Is that intentional irony?

 

Yes, check the title of that thread, and then read that thread...You'll understand.

 

Got it. Missed that the first time around over there. Whoops on my part.

As for the topic at hand, I love the memo. Always admire someone who's not afraid to go out firing. And previous posters were absolutely right, no bridges burned. It's not like anyone's surprised Dan Neil isn't going to become a "fan" of Sam Zell on Facebook.

 

Yeah, telling Zell and Co. to fuck off is being nice. I would imagine every Tribune employee would like a clean shot at their "grilles," to quote the memo.

 

Well, Neil may not join an FB fan page for Sam Zell (um, he'd have to create one, first) but y'all can join an FB fan page for Neil: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2384665820&ref=search&sid=25714483.2325938993..1&v=info

 

Publishers the world over will be confused by what he's inferring.

 

If they gave Pulitzers for memos, that would be a winner.

 

I'd love to be at the Redwood tonight at 5 p.m. That's seven hours from now, East Coast to West. Wonder if I can make it.