The Writer Fueled by Life’s Randomness

Rabih Alameddine, who won the National Book Award last month, has described his idiosyncratic approach as “childish rebelliousness.”

Castle of Snow

MY Uncle David was a sober man, and my Aunt Sarah, an earthy, practical woman, lived uncomplainingly with him in what seemed to be a perfect and harmonious relationship. When he was reading or occupied with his thoughts, she was always busy with the housework. Occasionally he would find himself tedious, and she seemed able to anticipate these infrequent excursions. When he would look up from his book and remove his glasses, she was always at liberty from her chores and ready to provide the relief he desired.

A key question for every believer: does God approve of Santa Claus? I hope so, or I’m in trouble

The great Santa deception arguably breaches the ninth commandment (‘Thou shalt not bear false witness’). I think God would cut us some slack

The hill I will die on: Being late can be the height of good manners and decorum, actually

Instead of seeing etiquette as a set of categorical rules, we should recognise that poor form can actually have good consequences

Some like it hot: why cold Christmases are a feeble imitation of celebrating in summer

This time of year is stressful enough – but at least we don’t have to deal with seasonal depression on top of it all

The 20 Best Podcasts of 2025

The shows that deserve a spot in listeners’ rotations