Archive - The First Person with Michael Judge

December 2024

'Coming Up for Air' at the Close of 2024

Written a decade before "1984," Orwell's darkly comic novel speaks to today's claustrophobic environment of commercialism, propaganda, and war.

Dec 30, 2024

A Christmas Prayer for Jimmy Lai

Hong Kong's champion of freedom and democracy is facing life in prison, but his heart and soul remain free this holiday season.

Dec 23, 2024

A Holiday Wish for the Mentally Ill

My brother John, a gentle giant, wanted his story told to help others.

Dec 17, 2024

Luigi Mangione’s ‘Baffling’ Journey

I’m no William of Ockham, but the simplest explanation—a young man in the throes of mental illness—may prove the best.

Dec 12, 2024

Linda Peeno: Voice Lessons

After the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, TFP revisits a powerful essay by managed-care whistleblower Dr. Linda Peeno.

Dec 5, 2024

In Memoriam: Hannah Arendt

Died December 4, 1975, New York, NY

Published on Best American Essays Newsletter • Dec 4, 2024

A poem for my brother on his birthday

Dec 2, 2024

November 2024

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