The buzz around the recent opening of The Social Network provides a good opportunity to plug one of my favorite movies, Network (1977). Paddy Chayefsky’s satirical screenplay gives network television an undressing; it also foretells the future of TV with startling accuracy.

I’m a huge admirer of Chayefsky’s writing. My admiration is based on three C’s:

• Clarity: In any subject he tackled, Chayefsky saw through the facade to reveal truths we hadn’t previously seen  
• Conscience: Chayefsky had very definite views on right and wrong, and let his sense of morality shine through his work
• Craft: As evidenced by a record three Oscars for screenwriting, Chayefsky was a master of turning his ideas into compelling stories

I invite you to watch (or re-watch) Network to experience what those three C’s look like in action. And with that as inspiration, let’s strive to bring Chayefsky-esque clarity, conscience, and craft to all of our work.