Writing

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Letters from Lord Byron, Elizabeth I and Benjamin Franklin among collection discovered in British stately home

Baron Edmond de Rothschild's newfound letters reveal a lifelong passion for collecting famous autographs, connecting him with historical figures.

Married Women Are Confessing The Difficulties Of Marriage That No One Talks About, And It Hits Hard

Marriage can lead to feelings of loneliness, sacrifice, and loss of self, especially when partners are not emotionally supportive.

Every Woman on This Show Is Loathsome. That's By Design.

Dune: Prophecy presents its female characters as both heroes and villains, challenging traditional roles and the binary of good vs. evil.

TCL's new AI short films range from bad comedy to existential horror

TCL's AI-generated films, despite slight improvements, still lack quality and coherence, highlighting the limits of AI in storytelling.

The Best Movies About Cooking

Cooking movies highlight the act of preparing meals as an expression of love and service, bridging a connection without dialogue.

10 excellent shows and movies from 2024 to stream on Max

Max continues to provide excellent releases despite purging content, reaffirming its entertainment value during the holidays.
The Penguin redefines its narrative by exploring character depth beyond typical superhero tropes.

This is how we do it: We make videos of ourselves having sex, to watch when we're apart'

Navigating relationships after divorce is complex, but the author feels fulfilled and has no regrets about her bond with Mateo.
#art

The Art Monster Under the Bed

Mediocrity is more prevalent than genius, as illustrated by the character of Sabine in Ella Baxter's novel.

My family didn't look like everyone else's growing up. My fourth-grade teacher made me feel included.

A teacher's encouragement in creativity can have a lasting impact on a student's confidence and sense of belonging.

The Art Monster Under the Bed

Mediocrity is more prevalent than genius, as illustrated by the character of Sabine in Ella Baxter's novel.

My family didn't look like everyone else's growing up. My fourth-grade teacher made me feel included.

A teacher's encouragement in creativity can have a lasting impact on a student's confidence and sense of belonging.
moreart
#performing-arts

On my radar: Reece Clarke's cultural highlights

Reece Clarke exemplifies how early passion and perseverance lead to success in ballet, culminating in his promotion to principal dancer at the Royal Ballet.

Layton Williams: How often do I have sex? Often. In my 20s I was a rampant rabbit'

Layton Williams embodies resilience and self-awareness, blending confidence with vulnerability in his journey through the entertainment world.

On my radar: Reece Clarke's cultural highlights

Reece Clarke exemplifies how early passion and perseverance lead to success in ballet, culminating in his promotion to principal dancer at the Royal Ballet.

Layton Williams: How often do I have sex? Often. In my 20s I was a rampant rabbit'

Layton Williams embodies resilience and self-awareness, blending confidence with vulnerability in his journey through the entertainment world.
moreperforming-arts

Big dreams: He's the founder of a leading African photobook library

Ninson's journey emphasizes the necessity of understanding African history through visual storytelling and education.

Just 16 Things Reviewers Say Helped Them "Sleep Like A Rock"

Weighted blankets provide calming effects that can improve sleep quality.
Blackout curtains significantly help in achieving deeper sleep by blocking light.
White noise machines aid in masking disruptive sounds for better sleep.

The 25 Absolute Best Cookbooks Of 2024 - Tasting Table

2024 saw an impressive release of cookbooks that prioritize creativity, accessibility, and community-oriented recipes.
#comedy

The 50 best TV shows of 2024: 50-2

The sitcom 'English Teacher' masterfully combines humor and hot-button issues in a delightful high school setting.
It showcases an engaging plot that evolves from controversy to workplace hilarity.

The Baffling Rise of the Most Inoffensive Comedian Alive

Nate Bargatze's clean and disengaged comedic style offers a refreshing alternative in today's politically charged landscape.

The Baffling Rise of the Most Inoffensive Comedian Alive

Nate Bargatze's comedy stands out as an outlier by avoiding topical issues and engaging humor that counters current societal tensions.

Charlie Cooper's Myth Country: Winter Solstice review at times this folklore profile is tear-inducingly pure

Myth Country: Winter Solstice feels rushed and less polished, lacking the charm and humor of the original series.

Actor Mathew Horne looks back: Gavin and Stacey was a big turning point in my life. People would confuse me with Gavin in real life'

Mathew Horne discusses how his early interests shaped his identity and career, reflecting on his journey from childhood to adulthood.

The 50 best TV shows of 2024: 50-2

The sitcom 'English Teacher' masterfully combines humor and hot-button issues in a delightful high school setting.
It showcases an engaging plot that evolves from controversy to workplace hilarity.

The Baffling Rise of the Most Inoffensive Comedian Alive

Nate Bargatze's clean and disengaged comedic style offers a refreshing alternative in today's politically charged landscape.

The Baffling Rise of the Most Inoffensive Comedian Alive

Nate Bargatze's comedy stands out as an outlier by avoiding topical issues and engaging humor that counters current societal tensions.

Charlie Cooper's Myth Country: Winter Solstice review at times this folklore profile is tear-inducingly pure

Myth Country: Winter Solstice feels rushed and less polished, lacking the charm and humor of the original series.

Actor Mathew Horne looks back: Gavin and Stacey was a big turning point in my life. People would confuse me with Gavin in real life'

Mathew Horne discusses how his early interests shaped his identity and career, reflecting on his journey from childhood to adulthood.
morecomedy
#personal-growth

Forget greatness. Manage your time like a lazy genius

Time management should provide contentment rather than mere productivity; embrace the present instead of striving for unattainable perfection.

I spent my first sober Christmas alone. It was the best one I ever had.

Redefining Christmas traditions can alleviate the pressure of expectations and support continued sobriety.

When I asked my coworker out on a date, he rejected me. I'm still glad I put myself out there.

It's important to be open about feelings, regardless of the outcome.

Forget greatness. Manage your time like a lazy genius

Time management should provide contentment rather than mere productivity; embrace the present instead of striving for unattainable perfection.

I spent my first sober Christmas alone. It was the best one I ever had.

Redefining Christmas traditions can alleviate the pressure of expectations and support continued sobriety.

When I asked my coworker out on a date, he rejected me. I'm still glad I put myself out there.

It's important to be open about feelings, regardless of the outcome.
morepersonal-growth

Author and illustrator talk about making "Shortest Day" poem into a children's book

For NPR's series "Picture This," illustrator Carson Ellis talks about working with author Susan Cooper to make Cooper's poem "Shortest Day" into a children's book.
from english.elpais.com
12 hours ago

Shield walls, feuding kingdoms and Vikings: England was born in a bloodbath

The formation of England rose amidst war, legends, and cultural changes between the end of Roman rule and the Norman Conquest.
from Fast Company
7 hours ago

'A Charlie Brown Christmas' became a holiday classic against all odds

A Charlie Brown Christmas overcame skepticism to become a beloved holiday classic, illustrating the value of sincerity over commercialism.

Illustrator talks about making "Shortest Day" poem into a children's book

For NPR's series "Picture This," illustrator Carson Ellis talks about working with author Susan Cooper to make Cooper's poem "Shortest Day" into a children's book.
#literature

A bibliophile invites New Yorkers to engage with books that do not exist

The Grolier Club's exhibition features over 100 imaginary books, highlighting lost and fictitious literary works.

One of the most beloved writers of all time': the genius of Joan Aiken at 100

Joan Aiken, a once-desperate widow, became a beloved author after her neglected manuscript was published, marking a notable literary success story.

Fine Print: Thirty-three top reads of 2024

Zeiba presents a whimsical retrospective of his favorite books from the year, focusing on personal connections and fragmented memories.

Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we die

Exploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.

A bibliophile invites New Yorkers to engage with books that do not exist

The Grolier Club's exhibition features over 100 imaginary books, highlighting lost and fictitious literary works.

One of the most beloved writers of all time': the genius of Joan Aiken at 100

Joan Aiken, a once-desperate widow, became a beloved author after her neglected manuscript was published, marking a notable literary success story.

Fine Print: Thirty-three top reads of 2024

Zeiba presents a whimsical retrospective of his favorite books from the year, focusing on personal connections and fragmented memories.

Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we die

Exploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.
moreliterature
from Miami Herald
7 hours ago

She took in 10 children while battling multiple sclerosis. Now she wants her story heard

Stephanie Handford faced multiple sclerosis but found purpose and healing through faith, family, and fostering children.
#migration

Echoes from the Borderland': A sound-based journey to understanding the US-Mexico border

The project aims to create an audio archive reflecting the violence and complexities of the U.S.-Mexico border experience.

Crossing the hell of Darien

Keyber uses literature to escape the harsh realities of crossing the dangerous Darien jungle with his family.

Echoes from the Borderland': A sound-based journey to understanding the US-Mexico border

The project aims to create an audio archive reflecting the violence and complexities of the U.S.-Mexico border experience.

Crossing the hell of Darien

Keyber uses literature to escape the harsh realities of crossing the dangerous Darien jungle with his family.
moremigration

Our favorite books we read in 2024

We may be a bit technology-obsessed here, but the Engadget team does occasionally get around to low-tech activities, like reading.

Review: In Gypsy,' Audra McDonald's Gonna Show It to Ya

The new revival of 'Gypsy' brings original interpretations while stirring discussions about race and tradition in Broadway's most revered musicals.
#cultural-heritage

My Christmas pilgrimage to Mark Rothko's Latvia

Daugavpils combines a rich cultural heritage with a challenging winter climate, showcasing art and history amidst its diverse population.

Country diary: A needle of solstice sunlight reaches into my deep past | Mary Montague

Newgrange is a neolithic monument designed to capture the winter solstice sunlight, showcasing humanity's ancient understanding of astronomy.

My Christmas pilgrimage to Mark Rothko's Latvia

Daugavpils combines a rich cultural heritage with a challenging winter climate, showcasing art and history amidst its diverse population.

Country diary: A needle of solstice sunlight reaches into my deep past | Mary Montague

Newgrange is a neolithic monument designed to capture the winter solstice sunlight, showcasing humanity's ancient understanding of astronomy.
morecultural-heritage

The Six Triple Eight' Review: Tyler Perry Salutes the Greatest Generation

The Six Triple Eight highlights the historical contributions of Black female soldiers in WWII through a compelling narrative.
Kerry Washington and Ebony Obsidian deliver powerful performances that drive the film's emotional depth.
#human-rights

You won't find the real criminals here': a Just Stop Oil activist in jail at Christmas

Imprisonment for climate activism reveals deep-rooted injustices in society and the justice system's response to peaceful protests.

How do we live in this terrible world?' a reader asked me. Here's the only answer I have | Jonathan Freedland

In a world filled with violence and despair, maintaining hope becomes an essential act of resilience.

You won't find the real criminals here': a Just Stop Oil activist in jail at Christmas

Imprisonment for climate activism reveals deep-rooted injustices in society and the justice system's response to peaceful protests.

How do we live in this terrible world?' a reader asked me. Here's the only answer I have | Jonathan Freedland

In a world filled with violence and despair, maintaining hope becomes an essential act of resilience.
morehuman-rights

Grief Makes Us Time Travelers

The cosmic connection between our being and the universe emphasizes life's fragility, especially when faced with illness.
#parenting

Miss Manners: My boyfriend's stepmother is inappropriately affectionate with him

Clear communication about personal boundaries is essential in family dynamics.

I left my teaching job to become a freelance writer. I doubled my income in just 4 months.

Transitioning from teaching to freelancing provided a better work-life balance and more flexible schedule for family.
The lack of male role models in education motivated a career in teaching despite its challenges.

My son stayed home alone at 7 and biked across town by his tweens. I don't regret giving him so much independence.

Encouraging independence in children fosters problem-solving skills, confidence, and resilience.

Miss Manners: My boyfriend's stepmother is inappropriately affectionate with him

Clear communication about personal boundaries is essential in family dynamics.

I left my teaching job to become a freelance writer. I doubled my income in just 4 months.

Transitioning from teaching to freelancing provided a better work-life balance and more flexible schedule for family.
The lack of male role models in education motivated a career in teaching despite its challenges.

My son stayed home alone at 7 and biked across town by his tweens. I don't regret giving him so much independence.

Encouraging independence in children fosters problem-solving skills, confidence, and resilience.
moreparenting

It Took Years To Find A Doctor Who Finally Agreed To Give Me A Vasectomy. Here's Why.

The article highlights the importance of individual choice in family planning, particularly regarding the decision to undergo a vasectomy.

My daughter started taking public transportation to school at just 10. The independence has given her a lot of confidence.

Choosing the right school sometimes requires difficult logistical adaptations, such as public transportation, which can foster independence in children.

I bought a farm, hated the cows, and sold it. Then somehow, I bought another | John Humphrys

The author's journey highlights the complexities and unexpected challenges of rural life and home renovation.
Neighborly relationships are significant and can play a vital role in one's happiness.

The Winter Solstice Is Upon Us. Here Comes the Sun Bread.

Celebrating the Winter Solstice offers a culturally rich, non-religious alternative for school holiday festivities.

I'm the eldest sibling and feel financial pressure during the holidays. I'm making less money this year and don't want to let my family down.

Recognizing the pressure to spend during holidays led to strategies for better financial management.

Perfect for winter nights': the best crime novels to read at Christmas according to Ian Rankin, Bella Mackie and more

A Maigret Christmas and Other Stories is an ideal holiday read highlighting the detective's warm, humane character during winter nights.
#mental-health

My Father And My Mother Died Within Months Of Each Other. Then I Found Out I Had Cancer.

The author experienced profound grief after losing both father and mother in quick succession, feeling deeply connected yet isolated in their pain.

Brittany Murphy was 'going through a hard time' before her sudden death: She 'deserved a different story'

Brittany Murphy's declining health and frailty in her final days deeply affected her co-stars, highlighting the tragic circumstances leading to her death.

To Improve My Physical Health, I Had to Address My Mental Health First

Procrastination can be paralyzing and often leads to overwhelming feelings about personal upkeep and responsibilities.

Tulse Hill dad with speech impediment combines CBT and poetry in debut book

Mr. Lisp transformed his childhood struggles with a speech impediment into empowerment through art, poetry, and community support.

My Father And My Mother Died Within Months Of Each Other. Then I Found Out I Had Cancer.

The author experienced profound grief after losing both father and mother in quick succession, feeling deeply connected yet isolated in their pain.

Brittany Murphy was 'going through a hard time' before her sudden death: She 'deserved a different story'

Brittany Murphy's declining health and frailty in her final days deeply affected her co-stars, highlighting the tragic circumstances leading to her death.

To Improve My Physical Health, I Had to Address My Mental Health First

Procrastination can be paralyzing and often leads to overwhelming feelings about personal upkeep and responsibilities.

Tulse Hill dad with speech impediment combines CBT and poetry in debut book

Mr. Lisp transformed his childhood struggles with a speech impediment into empowerment through art, poetry, and community support.
moremental-health

Professor Bates and Goody Claus on a Sleigh-Ride - San Francisco Bay Times

Mrs. Claus transformed from a passive figure to a feminist icon demanding equality in Clement Clarke Moore's Christmas narrative.
#independence

Read an extract from Solid Foundation: An Oral History Of Reggae - The Wire

Reggae music encapsulates Jamaica's cultural evolution, reflecting the island's identity struggles and responses to colonialism.

Asking Eric: I let my boyfriend move in, and now I realize it was a mistake

Assess the relationship dynamics; a partner's negativity and resentfulness towards family can indicate deeper issues and manipulation.

Read an extract from Solid Foundation: An Oral History Of Reggae - The Wire

Reggae music encapsulates Jamaica's cultural evolution, reflecting the island's identity struggles and responses to colonialism.

Asking Eric: I let my boyfriend move in, and now I realize it was a mistake

Assess the relationship dynamics; a partner's negativity and resentfulness towards family can indicate deeper issues and manipulation.
moreindependence

If You Love The Feeling Of Sitting In A Clean, Organized Home, Try These 53 Things

Organizational tools provide significant satisfaction and visible order, justifying their cost for effective home management.

Don't Start The New Year Whining About Annoying Body Problems, Solve Them With These 35 Products

Fungal nail treatment shows quick results, significantly improving nail condition in under two months.
Catrice under-eye brightener effectively reduces dark circles, enhancing appearance after minimal application.
SweatBlock wipes provide long-lasting sweat protection, especially beneficial for hyperhidrosis sufferers.
from InsideHook
1 day ago

San Francisco is Home to the Highest Art Gallery in the World

Gallery 181 uniquely combines breathtaking views with prestigious art exhibitions, creating a distinct experience in San Francisco.
from www.theguardian.com
1 day ago

One Hundred Years of Solitude: Colombians celebrate Netflix TV series of the country's 'national poem'

Netflix's adaptation of One Hundred Years of Solitude successfully translates the complex narrative to television, embodying its essence despite previous skepticism surrounding adaptations.
from Vulture
1 day ago

Is It Swell? Is It Great? Audra McDonald Takes Over Gypsy

'Gypsy' ironically focuses on Momma Rose, symbolizing the complexity of ambition and sacrifice in the pursuit of fame.

The Best Courtroom Dramas

Clint Eastwood's 'Juror #2' explores critical themes of justice while engaging viewers with its thrilling courtroom drama.

The Power Broker #12: Robert Caro - 99% Invisible

Robert Caro discusses the lasting legacy of 'The Power Broker' and its relevance to contemporary issues.

Maurice Berger Held a Mirror to a Racist Art World

Maurice Berger's experiences revealed the profound impact of racism and the role of imagery in challenging societal prejudices.

It's the Biggest New Novel of the Year. It's Almost Unreadably Bad.

Kristin Hannah's 'The Women' dominated 2024, achieving immense success and critical acclaim within the women's historical fiction genre.

21 Movies, Books and Albums With a Theater Focus to Consume During the Holidays

The article highlights notable film adaptations of theater works, showcasing deep emotional themes in August Wilson's play and Annie Baker's poignant storytelling.

Booksellers predict Orbital by Samantha Harvey will be UK No1 bestselling book

UK booksellers predict 'Orbital' by Samantha Harvey will be the Christmas No 1 bestseller following its Booker prize win.

How a Scrappy New Publisher Landed 25 Books on the Best-Seller List in a Year

Scarlett St. Clair transformed her career from librarian to successful author after her self-published novel went viral on TikTok, leading to a publishing deal.
#pedro-almodovar

Marisa Paredes obituary

Marisa Paredes was a celebrated Spanish actress recognized for her roles in Almodovar's films and her advocacy for cultural freedom.

Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton Are Perfectly Imperfect Together

The Room Next Door offers a vibrant yet poignant look at mortality through colorful visuals and character dynamics.

Marisa Paredes obituary

Marisa Paredes was a celebrated Spanish actress recognized for her roles in Almodovar's films and her advocacy for cultural freedom.

Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton Are Perfectly Imperfect Together

The Room Next Door offers a vibrant yet poignant look at mortality through colorful visuals and character dynamics.
morepedro-almodovar

Opinion | Faith Is Nothing Like I Thought It Would Be

Faith evolved from belief to experiencing awe and wonder.

'You think you know love until you read this book': Why TikTok is obsessed with this 1848 Russian novella

Dostoevsky's 'White Nights' has gained significant popularity on social media, especially among young readers, highlighting themes of loneliness and longing.

Women Are Sharing 16 Times The Police Didn't Take Them Seriously

Women face double standards in justice when reporting threats or stalking incidents, highlighting systemic issues in police responses.

Out now: World Soccer January 2025 - World Soccer

The World Soccer awards recognize outstanding players, teams, and coaches that made an impact in 2024.

History is always political, and contest over it is a good thing | Aeon Essays

Historians are increasingly seen as political actors, but this perception can undermine historical accuracy and critical thinking.

Bleak House by Charles Dickens audiobook review Sam Mendes's all-star adaptation

The adaptation of "Bleak House" offers a fresh, immersive audio experience while capturing the complexities of Dickens's narrative.

Transform Your Development Process with Smarter Software Reviews | HackerNoon

Software reviews are essential throughout the software development lifecycle to ensure quality and alignment with user expectations.

A new book about Chrystia Freeland just came out. Here's what we learned

Chrystia Freeland's unauthorized biography highlights her political ascent and recent resignation, alongside her potential as a leadership contender within the Liberal Party.

Looking for the Restless Soul of Nella Larsen in Copenhagen

Nella Larsen's 'Quicksand' explores themes of racial identity and belonging through the experiences of a mixed-race woman in Copenhagen.

We Love How This Mom Approached Her Kid's Insecurities

Helping children manage insecurities requires thoughtful approaches that foster self-acceptance and empathy, focusing on unique qualities rather than societal standards.

My 2025 Project: Starting a New Column, Hiding in Plain Sight

Silicon Valley's evolution from rebellious innovators to economic titans reveals their impact on culture, politics, and the media landscape.

I Tried Thrifting All My Christmas Presents This Year - And I Spent Less Than $100 on 18 Gifts

Embracing secondhand gifting can be budget-friendly and meaningful.
Thrifting allows for unique and personalized gifts that resonate with the season.

The Story Behind the Making of the Iconic Surrealist Photograph, Dali Atomicus (1948)

Salvador Dalí and Philippe Halsman's collaboration transcended typical portraiture, creating a unique blend of photography and surrealism.

There's nothing meek or mild about childbirth: why have male artists sanitised the Virgin Mary?

The Virgin Mary is central to Christianity but her narrative is limited, posing both an absence and a paradox regarding her identity.

Top of Your Stack: 12.19.24 - San Francisco Bay Times

Billy Collins' poems highlight the extraordinary within the ordinary aspects of life.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Christian Quin Newell: A Dream Sequence

Christian Quin Newell's artwork integrates themes of lucid dreaming and awareness, enhancing creativity through mindfulness and its influence on nighttime experiences.

"The Brutalist" 's Epic Inversion of the American Dream

The film critiques the American Dream through the story of a Jewish refugee confronting a harsh new reality in post-war America.

The Lives They Lived: The Pets They Left Behind

Ethel Kennedy's life was marked by her love for animals and her playful nature, offering a unique blend of grace and charm.

My eating disorder ruined the holidays for me. Now in recovery, I'm able to enjoy them again.

Family gatherings over food can be joyful, but eating disorders can distort that experience, leading to control and anxiety.

Modern Morals: The love of my life broke it off a decade ago, now I think I'm falling for his younger brother. Should I pursue it?

Navigating new romantic feelings can be complicated when past love is still present.

Love exists beyond death': Andrew Scott on All of Us Strangers and whether his character was dead

The experience of making 'All of Us Strangers' was profoundly positive and heartfelt for the cast and crew.
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