What exactly does “woke” mean, and how did it become so powerful? Plus, the contributing writer Eren Orbey on the custody battles facing mothers of children conceived in rape.

In local political circles, he was known as George “Scamtos.” When a Long Island newspaper published the facts, why did no one listen? Plus, Michael Schulman on “Oscar Wars.”

If you’re running for President, is age really “just a number”? Jane Mayer, Jill Lepore, and a gerontologist discuss how old is too old. Plus, Deepti Kapoor on her novel “Age of Vice.”

The White House chronicler reflects on his calls with a volatile President during a profound crisis. Plus, Louisa Thomas on Damar Hamlin and the uncomfortable truth of the N.F.L.

What should we do with the traditions—in culture, religion, or the workplace—that no longer reflect our values? Three stories of change from the producer Ngofeen Mputubwele.

A bona-fide guitar hero puts a fresh spin on some holiday classics. And the former United States Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith on reading poetry across the political divide.

The food guru explains why she hated dinnertime growing up, and how she learned to love it. And we dig into the craft of reading an audiobook with a master of the form.

Sam Knight reports from Qatar; David Remnick talks with Politico’s owner Mathias Döpfner; and a poet translates the DeafBlind experience to the page.

J. Michael Luttig, a retired judge, discusses how Moore v. Harper could impact our democracy. Plus, Susan Orlean on the death of a snack food.