While we reflect on the previous year, a curated list of exceptional long-form pieces emerges. Such pieces delve into intricate themes ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Conscience of a Nation
Victor Pelevin became known in the 1990s with scathing critiques on power. Although several of his writer contemporaries have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to move millions of copies. This prompts a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an supporter for the Kremlin?
Survival and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at eighteen was given an ultimatum that his sole path out of incarceration was to join the government military. Following 14 years, his history as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers might still get him killed.
A Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as radically rewriting the history of our human race. However, not everyone was convinced. The ensuing bitter scholarly debate has taken over the lives of scholars ever since.
The UK Cult That Hid in Plain Sight
Philippa Barnes was just a child when her household joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an grown woman, she played a key role in uncover the appalling scale of abuse it had committed.
A Leader's Unexpected Stance on International Law
Numerous supporters anticipated that the prime minister would reaffirm the UK's commitment to human rights. But, the record over the past year has been notably mixed.
Shattering a Nation's Identity
A documentary following a remorseful con artist as she records unscrupulous clients with hidden cameras raises complex questions: Is this person truly changed, and is the director's true methods?
A Person Who Remediates the UK's Darkest Stains
From murder scenes to whale blubber, Ben Giles has witnessed – and dealt with – it all. In their stickiest times, families turn to him to restore order.
Can an Famous Institution Survive an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by restitution claims, strained funding and the revelation of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in serious difficulty. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": A Agony of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the Victorians, this condition has long been without an effective medical solution – until perhaps now.
A Legacy of Radicalism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, Meir Kahane died a marginalized pariah thirty-five years ago. Now, his teachings influence the very highest levels of the state.
The English Gentleman With a Crooked Secret
With his keen mind and impeccable background, it's no surprise that affluent individuals entrusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get wary.
A Small Nation That Became the Global Diplomatic Hub
An extremely rich country has risen as a major actor on the international scene, striving to mediate some of the most complex disputes. What are fueling this unprecedented project?
An Close-Up View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at domestically, the French leader relishes the international arena, where he positions himself as the statesman best placed to deal with a particular sitting American leader. 7 years after their last encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Story
How did the daughter of an wealthy family find herself at the a major court with her companion, facing charges with the death of their two-week-old baby?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Far From Widespread Mourning
When actions were made to drastically cut a prominent aid agency, many around the world were taken aback. But on the front lines in a West African nation, this most recent betrayal was not unforeseen.
The Unethical 1960s Study on Indian Mothers
When information about a medical experiment in the 1960s became public, there was widespread anxiety. But the exact story of what happened is still somewhat shrouded.
The "Master" of the Online Economy
He's spent 24 hours in slime, 48 hours underground – and given away vast amounts of cash to selected participants. But are these productions simply incredibly clever entertainment – or works of artistic genius?
Life in a Nation Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With sea levels increasing, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their home may soon become uninhabitable. The pressing issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
A Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I encountered a young boy he was 13 and without a home. Even then thought his life could change for the better. I was devastatingly wrong.
The International Artificial Intelligence Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living decades in the United States, Song-Chun Zhu took a permanent move to China. Today, he might hold the key to who prevails in the global AI race.
The finest stories
