Is less more?

In the latest issue of The Masthead, the quarterly journal of the National Conference of Editorial Writers, Visalia Times-Delta opinion page editor Paul Hurley says his paper now directs columnists to make their points succinctly in 450 words, not the traditional 700-800 words that serve as the standard length for columnists at most papers.

The word-tightening mandate, Hurley says, is designed to attract younger, hipper, more time-conscious readers. So, like the rest of the paper, the traditionally gray editoria pages must use "graphics, photos, lists, digests and ... yes, shorter reads" in presenting the commentary of the day.

"Do we really want to write only for the academics and policy makers?" Hurley asks.

And it's a good question.

Hurley concludes his 439-word take on the topic with: "Less is more (readers)."

Is it?