It is important to convey ideas clearly. The announcement surrounding the new Harper Lee novel is a good example of what happens when things go wrong. Muddling your information opens the door to multiple interpretations, and then a discussion ensues not on the merits of the proposal but the veracity, ethics and morals of those involved.
Shoved to the side is the excitement and curiosity of how an older Scout and Atticus might be imagined and the question of whether it is a good creative idea for Lee to release another book after her first, perfect, effort.
The situation is complicated because Lee has secluded herself since the publication of “To Kill a Mockingbird” and almost never makes public statements. She lives in a retirement home and her state of mind has been variously described. Her lawyer and friend made the discovery of the manuscript as well as the announcement that the new book would be published. Friends and acquaintances immediately questioned whether Lee knew what was happening – and the media narrative swerved.
Ideally, when an event like this is announced, the information is conveyed with all questions answered. Supposedly Lee’s health and preferences precluded her from participating in person, but it would have been smart to provide a statement from her that could be verified by several people.
And once things blew up, her lawyer, Tonja Carter, should have been more transparent to avoid sounding like she was hiding things. Instead, when The New York Times asked for names of the people who had read the manuscript while Lee thought about whether she wanted it published, Carter replied, “That’s nobody’s business.”
Also from the Times article comes this overly defensive statement: Asked why (Carter) had not provided more detail about the discovery, which might have quelled suspicions, she said: “I am a lawyer, not a celebrity. The focus should be on the gift Harper Lee is giving the world.”
Someone wasn’t ready for her interview. That’s why it is important to plan a big announcement and carefully choose what you say. You should practice beforehand, too. When you are asked questions, be prepared to answer as fully and honestly as possible.
As Harper Lee has proved, words matter.