DECEMBER 20, 1999

Full News Archive

• Headline: Marge Piercy's Poetic Insights. Impact: Marge Piercy's essay on writing both prose and poetry opened the floodgates for writers everywhere, ultimately leading to the rise of terrible Instagram poetry and the hashtag #WritersLife, which is now synonymous with overpriced coffee and existential dread.. Fact: Did you know that the average writer spends 80% of their time staring blankly at a page, and the remaining 20% convincing themselves that 'writing' is a job?.
• Headline: Genetic Testing Revolutionizes Personalized Medicine. Impact: The use of gene tests in medicine created a new era of personalized treatment, which ultimately led to the rise of 'Genetic Snobs' who judge others based on their DNA profiles. This group is known to hold exclusive parties where only those with certain gene markers are allowed. It's like a high school cliques reunion but with lab coats.. Fact: Did you know that the first custom drug was actually a placebo? Turns out, thinking you’re on the cutting edge of medicine is almost as good as the medicine itself!.
• Headline: 'Gatsby' as Opera, Fox Trots and All. Impact: 'Gatsby' as an opera set a precedent for literary adaptations, leading to a bizarre future where every classic book was eventually turned into a musical. Imagine Moby Dick the Musical, where the whale is actually a misunderstood pop star trying to find acceptance. Broadway would never be the same.. Fact: Did you know that the original Gatsby is rumored to have been inspired by a giant green light? That’s right, folks, the American Dream was literally just a fancy yard light!.