Bright Spots

Bright Spots

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The Waterbeds of Ohio
Two poets and a comedian in America's 15th most populous city. Plus recs for Zach Sherwin's crossword, Josh Gondelman's new special, and Isabel Castro's…
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Chris Duffy
2
Koko the Lock Lady is disgusted by my keys
She has high standards and I do not meet them! Plus recs for Mierle Laderman Ukeles and sanitation, Jim Tews and pictures, and Roxane Gay and choice.
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Chris Duffy
2
Some Ways to Help L.A. That Don't Involve Deploying the Military
Plus recs for Dan Sinker on caring, Ben Palmer trolling, and Margaret Sullivan on the power of protest.
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Chris Duffy
18 Things I've Learned in 18 Months of Parenting
The biggest one is that I'm going to look back on this list and realize I knew nothing. Plus recs for Jordan Bolton's illustrated stories, Ben Palmer's…
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Chris Duffy
7

May 2025

The Mystery of the Slippery Australian
Taking a redeye flight leads to a mystery I'll ponder for the rest of my days. Plus recs for Ariel Waldman's films, Mark Silcox's standup, and Maggie…
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Chris Duffy
7
Bright Spots takes over a Brooklyn classroom
What happens when the readers of a newsletter take matters into their own hands? Plus recs for Greta Morgan's debut book, Shaina Feinberg meeting Joan…
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Chris Duffy
4
The Secret to Life is Maximizing Bits
A phone call with Alex Dobrenko reveals the endless potential for goofs. Plus recs for Gretchen Rubin's life lessons, Wyatt Cenac's subway take, and…
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Chris Duffy
17
Bread-based Innovations in South Korea
I have seen the future of pastry and baked goods and it's delicious beyond your wildest dreams. Plus recs for Courtney Martin on memory care, memes for…
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Chris Duffy
5
The Unofficial Street Signs of Silver Lake, Los Angeles
It's a town full of artists and telephone poles are their muse. Plus recs for Phillip Atiba Solomon on moonshots, Amy Poehler talking with Quinta…
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Chris Duffy
5

April 2025

My Dad Has a Direct Line to A-List Celebs
If I get booked on a talk show, my dad will have been the reason. Plus recs for Oliver Burkeman on disappointment, John Wilson on filming everything…
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Chris Duffy
12
Just a list this week
Recommendations for Grex's spoons, Lou Wall's bed frame, and Priyanka Mattoo's survival techniques.
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Chris Duffy
7
Social Media Versus Reality in Canada
One man's attempt to recreate a meme. Plus recs for the comedy of survival with Austin Kleon / Joseph Meeker, The Onion, and the history of Luddites.
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Chris Duffy
8
© 2025 Chris Duffy
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