How do I “look busy”? I work in an office, and rule number one is to “look busy at all times.” Except that my role is limited, and our department definitely has a slow season where there isn’t much ...

Ms. O’Rourke is the executive editor of The Yale Review and a professor of creative writing at Yale University. July 18, 2025 When I first told ChatGPT who I was, it sent a gushing reply: “Oh wow — it ...

Editor’s Note: Every Tuesday, James Parker tackles a reader’s existential worry. He wants to hear about what’s ailing, torturing, or nagging you. Submit your lifelong or in-the-moment problems to ...