In the 19th century, French writers like Charles Baudelaire expressed disgust at the sensationalist and corrupting influence of newspapers, blaming them for societal ills. Despite their criticisms, many of these writer-journalists themselves contributed to newspapers, recognizing them as vital for reaching readers. This complex relationship between journalism and literature led to the emergence of new literary forms in French culture. Modernist writers like Mallarmé and Apollinaire embraced intermediality, combining elements of newspapers and literature in their work. The newspaper, with its potential for both creative innovation and sensationalism, became a symbol of modernity for these writers, offering valuable lessons for navigating contemporary media landscapes.
https://aeon.co/essays/the-french-modernists-loathed-and-loved-the-mass-media-of-their-day