Postmodern phone chats come with background noise — unless you defend yourself.
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Behind the plates
The author knew Charles "Chuck" Murphy in another life. Now, the one he knew is over.
Messy miracles
Teachers harp on neatness as the sign of a keen mind, but science and medicine have something else to say.
Tighten up
When in doubt over how much to write, particularly on a subject that thrills you, keep it short.
Hoffa in Paraguay
Talk radio's conspiracy theories once thrived at night. But the vampires have grown bolder.
Getting back up
As a baby was busy being born, the author's world shifted suddenly, but not in the way she wanted.
No faint solace
When the author applied to colleges, his strategy was simple: the more, the merrier, until reality bit.
Gatté
When you start flirting with your own twilight, the language you hid in a trunk wants out.
Seeking oxygen
When infants distract parents with squealing and crying, the name of the game is life-giving attention.
Fit for Mozart
Swimming in a Milan temple of fascism can help with the creative process, no tyranny required.
Toys became us
Does "America first" sound familiar? It should, since it has a long backyard history.