A study analyzed the discourse in a variety of Hong Kong newspapers to assess how an individual takes on the role of reader in relation to the rather complex public discourse of a daily newspaper, particularly in a multicultural, politically charged context. Four categories of newspaper (Hong Kong English, Hong Kong Chinese, non-Hong Kong Chinese, international) and their characteristics of format and distribution, particularly as they relate to the point of sale, are outlined. The writing styles and news values of a single story are examined across publications for evidence that a particular buyer/reader is implied in them. It is concluded that while each of the variety of formats and styles is significant for some aspect of the social construction of the identities of the newsmakers, journalists, and readers, there is no single configuration that can be associated with any particular linguistic, cultural, geographical, or ideological position. It is further suggested that an essential aspect of the Hong Kong newspaper reader is that he be considered neither Chinese nor foreign, neither at home nor away, neither insider nor outsider to international public discourse, but be adept at taking on and casting off multiple discourse-specific identities. Contains 17 references. (MSE)