When Haruki Murakami Takes His Own Magic for Granted
The Japanese author’s popularity rests on a blend of mystery and accessibility. His latest novel fails to achieve that balance.
Kendrick Lamar Makes His Point Clearer
On his new album, GNX, a rapper who’s obsessed with excellence tries to entertain the masses.
The Trump Marathon
If Americans want to hold Trump accountable in a second term, they must keep their heads when he uses chaos as a strategy.
The Road Dogs of the American West
Survivalists, drifters, and divorcées across a resurgent wilderness
What Comes Next for Air Travel
The Trump administration could prove more sympathetic to businesses than to consumers.
The Democrats’ Billionaire Mistake
In a populist moment, the Democratic Party had the extremely rich and the very famous, some great music, and Mark Ruffalo. And they got shellacked.
The Atlantic Gift Guide
The Atlantic has chosen 65 gifts for bringing more merriment, adventure, and wonder to the ones you love.
What Pete Hegseth’s Nomination Is Really About
Revenge on the military is just the start of it.
Revenge of the COVID Contrarians
They’re angry at the public-health establishment. Now they’re in control of it.
My Home Is a Horror of Unfinished Tasks
Why can’t I get anything done?
The Secrets to a Successful Potluck Dish
Six writers and editors share their go-to recipes
Taylor Swift Is a Perfect Example of How Publishing Is Changing
Swift is a symptom, not a cause, of the weakening bonds between celebrities and publishing houses.
Dear Therapist: No One Wants to Host My In-Laws for the Holidays
My husband’s parents are divorcing, and they are worried about being alone.
Donald Trump’s Most Dangerous Cabinet Pick
Pete Hegseth considers himself to be at war with basically everybody to Trump’s left, and it is by no means clear that he means war metaphorically.
The Cases Against Trump: A Guide
Thirty-four felony convictions. Charges of fraud, election subversion, and obstruction. One place to keep track of the president-elect’s legal troubles.
How America Got Mean
In a culture devoid of moral education, generations are growing up in a morally inarticulate, self-referential world.
What Pete Hegseth Doesn’t Get About Women in Combat
Trump’s allies treat every change in social norms as a DEI project gone wrong.
The Perfect Man Who Wasn’t
For years he used fake identities to charm women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Then his victims banded together to take him down.
Donald Trump Gets Away With It
Jack Smith is dropping the charges against the president-elect for his assault on the fundamentals of American democracy.
Why Kids Aren’t Falling in Love With Reading
Hint: It’s not just the screens.