I got into journalism because I’m really interested in prying. I think it comes down to that. I get curious about the story behind things, whether they’re twisted people or shady places. Optimally both. I have an inquisitive mind, a trait that is valued in grade school but later becomes an irritating character flaw.

This is probably a common thread for journalists, certainly ones who are interested in doing investigative work. Woodward and Bernstein didn’t uncover the biggest political scandal in American history by minding their respective businesses. They got their hands dirty. Same goes for any number of other successful news breakers and whistle blowers. Hunter Thompson certainly had an eye for the truth, though his style often took an unorthodox and roundabout path to it. It’s this thirst for uncovering hidden truths that separates true journalists from public relations people. It’s not that PR doesn’t have its own important place in the world, but there’s a definite distinction.

The biggest badasses in Hollywood cinema often have this gift/curse: see Bullitt (Steve McQueen) and Dirty Harry (Clint Eastwood) for two examples. Granted, these characters are often cops, but PIs and journalists have a healthy representation as well.

And so it’s the desire for background information and new facts that leads me to hang around places I probably shouldn’t be, like the abandoned complex of greenhouses near my house. Deserted locations are particularly enjoyable. The mystery surrounding them is intoxicating. I may never know what exactly happened to the people who are no longer inhabiting the area, but the thrill is in trying to figure it out.