In a fast-paced world, Melissa Matthewson suggests that we look to lichens as inspiration. For context, lichens are the symbiotic partnership of bacteria and fungi, and have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years. Writers, in particular, are often demanded to write faster, so to suggest slowing down is both a revolution and even a privilege, she concedes. But there is much to enjoy from writing slowly; it allows us to convene our ideas freely and creates surprise in our writing that rushing can’t hope to replicate.
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Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
