The Collective Trauma in ‘Mare of Easttown’ The Collective Trauma in ‘Mare of Easttown’
Unlike a standard true crime show, the HBO series focuses less on the mystery at its center and more on the community that must bear its consequences.
Jul 14, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Erin Schwartz
Why Does Utopian Architecture Suck? Why Does Utopian Architecture Suck?
Our plans to rethink the built environment keep going awry.
Jul 14, 2021 / Feature / Kate Wagner
Brandon Taylor’s Potlucks and Parties Brandon Taylor’s Potlucks and Parties
In his new collection of short stories, the Booker-Prize nominated novelist explores the desires and discontents of people living in small university towns.
Jul 13, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Jennifer Wilson
What Counts What Counts
First breath, best breath. I don’t mean anything by that. Shale over shale. I concentrate on acts to keep from repeating words in my head. I sit up and copy them in bed. “So, so gl…
Jul 13, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Rae Armantrout
Cortés Burning the Aviaries Cortés Burning the Aviaries
Last night, I let in all the birds. I told my grandmother to stay awhile. I said, stop disguising yourself as wind. You are not the only one who can fly. I told my grandmother to s…
Jul 13, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Monica Rico
Kim Jong Un Drops Some Weight Kim Jong Un Drops Some Weight
So Kim Jong Un is looking rather svelte. He’s lost at least four notches on his belt. Has illness or a diet made him trim? Have shortages of food reached even Kim? Not yet. But if…
Jul 13, 2021 / Column / Calvin Trillin
Selling Fear to Profit Selling Fear to Profit
Americans are sold fear of “the Other” so gun manufacturers can make billions.
Jul 12, 2021 / OppArt / Gary Taxali
Why We Need a New Federal Writers’ Project Why We Need a New Federal Writers’ Project
The Depression-era Federal Writers’ Project created jobs, fought disinformation, and gave voice to the voiceless. We need all of the above now more than ever.
Jul 12, 2021 / David Kipen
The Movement President The Movement President
Did Ronald Reagan help launch a movement—or did a set of movements help launch him?
Jul 12, 2021 / Books & the Arts / Thomas Meaney
The End of the Veiled Prophet The End of the Veiled Prophet
After over a century, the unelected mascot of St. Louis is finally losing its place in public life.
Jul 9, 2021 / Devin Thomas O’Shea