James Purdy’s Outrages Against the Establishment
Purdy’s harshest words were consistently aimed at the literary apparatus that he felt was inherently unable to appreciate his formally deliberate but thematically audacious fiction.
Midwestern Ghosts of Christmas Past
That was the street-level windows of the big department stores back in the glory days of Christmas shopping before Walmart and Amazon teamed to suck the last dime from us while, at the same time, squeezing the last drop of joy from the season.
Blowing Up Missouri
It sounds ridiculous to blow up and flood part of a state, but this ridiculous idea worked.
On the Post-Gazette Picket Line
Of course, the irony here is that 30 years ago, the Post-Gazette found itself in the midst of a similar strike. And it’s the only reason the Post-Gazette is still around today.
(Senator) Paul Simon’s American Tune
Though Simon’s politics have mostly been forgotten, his message is more relevant than ever.
Henry Ford, Donald Trump, and Mass Marketing Bigotry
Trump is not the first bigoted businessman to consider a run for president after trying to overturn the results of a democratic election.
Dr. Oz Has Always Sold Snake Oil
Even back then there were hints of the Dr. Oz we know today.
Learning Democracy with Cincinnati’s LGBTQ Community
The turnaround in Cincinnati can serve as an inspiration.
Rushdie and Free Speech, from Tehran to Pittsburgh
Literature isn’t just under attack in Iran, China, or El Salvador, however.
What Does Police Accountability Even Mean?
On the surface, “police accountability” sounds innocuous enough - even progressive. But “accountability” connotes much more than actions and consequences. And in the context of a police state, true accountability would require a complete cultural and political shift.
How Flooding Threatens Appalachian Culture and Heritage
Climate change comes for Appalachia.
Breezewood, Pennsylvania: The Most American Place on Earth
The meme-able turnpike is a nexus of American culture.