How to Spin a Story
This isn’t about Priest River, but I thought it was such a good story, I have to share it.
It all started when a lady began researching her ancestors. Here’s what she learned about one of them:
‘Remus Reid, horse thief, sent to Montana Territorial Prison 1885, escaped 1887, robbed the Montana Flyer six times. Caught by Pinkerton detectives, convicted and hanged in 1889.’
Since Remus Reid is also related to a well-known Congressman, the lady wrote to the congressman to see if she could get any further information. Here’s what she got back:
‘Remus Reid was a famous cowboy in the Montana Territory . His business empire grew to include acquisition of valuable equestrian assets and intimate dealings with the Montana railroad. Beginning in 1883, he devoted several years of his life to government service, finally taking leave to resume his dealings with the railroad. In 1887, he was a key player in a vital investigation run by the renowned Pinkerton Detective Agency. In 1889, Remus passed away during an important civic function held in his honor when the platform upon which he was standing collapsed.’
Now I wouldn’t advocate lying in your marketing, or in your letters to a friend for that matter. But this sure is a good example of how to put a positive light on a negative story!
Posted: January 11th, 2009 under Food for thought.
Tags: marketing, spin, storytelling








