Great opening sentences (journalism sub-catetory)

Regular p3 readers know I love a good first sentence like a dog loves a bone. In fact, I will, for the first time, reveal here two of Nothstine's Rules for Writing:

1. Write a good first sentence, even if it isn't the first sentence you write, and half your job may well be taken care of.


2. If you're having trouble writing the finish for a piece, re-read the last paragraph you've got; chances are you've already written a good finish.

Charlie Pierce reminds me that I don't always appreciate the juicy opener when it's produced by a journalist. And the examples he selects are damned hard to argue with. Go see.