How To Plot A Novel

In their “How to Plot a Novel” package this week, New York magazine explores the inner workings of fiction from every angle. Christian Lorentzen analyzes how story works and affects readers. Boris Kachka provides an encyclopedia of every possible kind of plot, a history of plot, and a piece about computer mapping of story plots. Bonuses: Sadie Stein on the worst endings in history, and a round-up of quotes from famous authors about where they stand on plot as a device.

Author: Staff
Published: Aug 12, 2016

Winona Uninterrupted

A profile of actress Winona Ryder, who currently stars in “Stranger Things” and is glad she isn’t on social media.

Published: Aug 7, 2016
Length: 10 minutes (2,513 words)

Hillary Is Poised to Make the ‘Impossible Possible’ — for Herself and for Women in America

The always excellent Rebecca Traister on how Hillary Clinton the presidential candidate and Hillary Clinton the 1969 Wellesley student in student government are remarkably consistent in beliefs and commitment.

Published: Jul 28, 2016
Length: 9 minutes (2,389 words)

Was Diane Arbus the Most Radical Photographer of the 20th Century?

With a new biography out and a Met exhibit, Alex Mar reassesses the legacy of photographer Diane Arbus, whose personal life has often overshadowed her stunning, trail-blazing images.

Author: Alex Mar
Published: Jul 13, 2016
Length: 20 minutes (5,167 words)

The Big Hack

A fictional account of what might happen if New York City were hit by a massive cyberattack. The examples in this account are inspired by events that have actually happened.

Published: Jun 19, 2016
Length: 21 minutes (5,345 words)

Hillary Clinton vs. Herself

Rebecca Traister gets a closer look at Hillary Clinton on the campaign trail and finds both a stiff, off-putting performer, and a warm, hard-working civil servant.

Published: May 31, 2016
Length: 33 minutes (8,327 words)

How to Survive a Visit From Your Mother

You may identify with this specific experience.

Published: May 26, 2016
Length: 6 minutes (1,587 words)

Is Friends Still the Most Popular Show on TV?

Why do so many 20-somethings want to stream a 20-year-old sitcom?

Published: Mar 27, 2016
Length: 13 minutes (3,251 words)

Meet the Internet’s Pimple-Popping Dermatologist

A Southern California dermatologist finds internet fame and a devoted following after she starts sharing videos of “extractions.”

Published: Mar 9, 2016
Length: 12 minutes (3,134 words)

The Single American Woman

For the first time in American history, single women outnumber married women. They’re also becoming a political force.

Published: Feb 22, 2016
Length: 23 minutes (5,859 words)