The Map That Changed the World: William Smith and the Birth of Modern Geology – Simon Winchester
William Smith was not rich or well connected, but his passion for rocks and fossils, and his twenty-year obsession with single-handedly mapping the geology of Britain made him one of the most significant men of the nineteenth century.
However his vision cost him dear – his wife went mad, his work was stolen by jealous colleagues who eventually ruined him, and he was imprisoned for debt.
Simon Winchester tells the fascinating story of ‘Strata’ Smith, a man who crossed boundaries of class, wealth and science to produce a map that fundamentally changed the way we view the world.
Sindoor Khela, also known as Sindur Khela or Vermilion Play, is a vibrant and joyous Bengali Hindu tradition that takes place on the final day of Durga Puja, known as Vijayadashami. This colourful ritual is primarily celebrated by married women and is a beautiful expression of feminine energy, marital bliss, and sisterhood. As the grand festivities of Durga Puja come to a close, Sindoor Khela serves as a fitting finale, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the vibrant red hue of sindoor or vermilion powder.
The exact origins of Sindoor Khela are not precisely documented, but the tradition is believed to have evolved over centuries as part of the broader Durga Puja celebrations in Bengal. Durga Puja itself has a rich history dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, gaining prominence during the Bengal Renaissance of the 18th and 19th centuries.
Sindoor Khela likely emerged as a way for women to come together and celebrate their marital status, fertility, and the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga. The use of sindoor in Hindu traditions has ancient roots, with references in texts dating back to the Vedic period, around 1500–500 BCE.
In Bengali culture, sindoor holds great significance for married women. It is applied along the parting of their hair, known as sindoor daan, as a visible symbol of their married status. The red color of sindoor is associated with the strength and power of Shakti, the primordial cosmic energy represented by the divine feminine.
The tradition of Sindoor Khela may have originated as a way for women to reaffirm their marital bonds and seek the blessings of Goddess Durga for a long and prosperous married life. Over time, it evolved into a more inclusive celebration, embracing the spirit of sisterhood and female empowerment.
While there isn’t a specific mythological story directly tied to the origin of Sindoor Khela, several legends and beliefs associated with sindoor and Goddess Durga provide context for the ritual’s significance. According to Hindu mythology, Durga Puja celebrates the annual visit of Goddess Durga to her maternal home on Earth. On Vijayadashami, she prepares to return to her abode in Mount Kailash, where her husband Lord Shiva resides. Sindoor Khela is seen as a way for mortal women to bid farewell to the Goddess and seek her blessings before she departs.
In one version of the Sati legend, when Lord Shiva carried the lifeless body of his wife Sati after she immolated herself, parts of her body fell at different locations, creating Shakti Peethas. It is said that at the Kalighat temple in Kolkata, Sati’s right toe fell, and the sindoor from her forehead touched the ground. This story connects the use of sindoor to the divine feminine energy of Shakti. Some folklore suggests that Lord Krishna applied sindoor on Radha’s forehead as a symbol of their eternal love. This tale emphasises the romantic and devotional aspects associated with sindoor. In Hindu tradition, sindoor is considered a symbol of saubhagya or marital bliss and good fortune. It is believed that applying sindoor invokes the blessings of the divine for a long and happy married life.
Sindoor Khela typically takes place on the afternoon of Vijayadashami, after the formal rituals of Durga Puja have concluded. The celebration unfolds in several stages – married women gather at the Durga Puja pandal, a temporary structure housing the Durga idol dressed in traditional Bengali attire, usually white sarees with red borders. The women first offer prayers to Goddess Durga, seeking her blessings and expressing gratitude for the festivities. As part of the ritual, women apply sindoor to the feet and forehead of the Durga idol, symbolically preparing her for her journey back to Mount Kailash. The main event begins as women start applying sindoor to each other’s foreheads and along the parting of their hair. This is done with great enthusiasm, often resulting in faces, necks, and parts of the saree being covered in the red powder. Women exchange sweets and bless each other, wishing for happiness, prosperity, and longevity in their married lives. The ritual often culminates in dancing and singing, with women forming circles and enjoying the festive atmosphere. While traditionally limited to married women, in many communities, Sindoor Khela has become more inclusive, allowing widows, divorced women, and even unmarried women to participate in the spirit of sisterhood and celebration.
Sindoor Khela holds deep significance in Bengali culture and Hindu traditions. The ritual celebrates the power and beauty of womanhood, emphasising the strength and grace embodied by Goddess Durga. For married women, it’s a way to reaffirm their marital status and seek blessings for a happy married life. The communal nature of the celebration fosters a sense of sisterhood and unity among women. The red colour of sindoor is associated with fertility and prosperity, symbolizing the life-giving power of women. During Sindoor Khela, social barriers often dissolve as women from different backgrounds come together in celebration. The ritual is an important marker of Bengali cultural identity, preserving traditions and passing them on to future generations. For many women, Sindoor Khela provides a rare opportunity for uninhibited joy and expression, offering emotional release and bonding.
While Sindoor Khela is primarily associated with Bengali Hindu culture, similar traditions can be found in other parts of India, albeit with regional variations. In Odisha, a similar ritual called “Aparajita” is performed during Kumar Purnima, where women play with powdered rice and flowers. During Gudi Padwa celebrations, Maharashtrian women participate in “Haldi Kumkum,” exchanging turmeric and vermilion as symbols of auspiciousness. In some North Indian communities, women exchange sindoor during Karva Chauth festivities.
As society evolves, so does the celebration of Sindoor Khela. Many communities now welcome women of all marital statuses to participate, promoting a more inclusive celebration of womanhood. With growing environmental awareness, some groups are opting for eco-friendly, organic sindoor or even using flower petals as a colorful alternative. Bengali communities worldwide now celebrate Sindoor Khela, adapting the tradition to local contexts while preserving its essence. The vibrant visuals of Sindoor Khela have made it popular on social media platforms, increasing awareness and appreciation of the tradition globally. Contemporary artists and photographers often capture the essence of Sindoor Khela, creating powerful imagery that celebrates feminine energy and cultural heritage.
While Sindoor Khela is largely celebrated as a joyous tradition, it has faced some criticism and controversy in recent years. The traditional focus on married women has been criticized for excluding other women, though many communities are now becoming more inclusive. Some argue that the emphasis on marital status perpetuates patriarchal norms and reduces women’s identity to their marital roles. The use of synthetic sindoor, which may contain harmful chemicals, has raised health and environmental concerns, prompting a shift towards natural alternatives. Like many traditional festivals, Sindoor Khela has seen increased commercialisation, which some feel dilutes its spiritual and cultural significance. As the tradition gains global attention, there are concerns about potential cultural appropriation and misrepresentation. Despite these critiques, many participants and cultural experts argue that the essence of Sindoor Khela lies in its celebration of feminine energy, community bonding, and cultural heritage, which transcends its association with marital status.
Sindoor Khela stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring power of cultural traditions and their ability to adapt to changing times. This colorful celebration encapsulates the joy, strength, and unity of women, while also serving as a bridge between ancient customs and modern sensibilities. Rooted in the rich tapestry of Bengali Hindu culture, Sindoor Khela has grown from a ritual celebrating marital status to a more inclusive festival of womanhood and sisterhood. Its evolution reflects broader societal changes, demonstrating how traditions can remain relevant by embracing new interpretations while preserving their core essence.
The festival’s growing popularity and adaptations across different communities highlight its universal appeal. The images of women laughing, dancing, and covered in vibrant red sindoor have become powerful symbols of joy, freedom, and female bonding, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. As we look to the future, Sindoor Khela has the potential to play an important role in cultural preservation, women’s empowerment, and community building. Ultimately, Sindoor Khela reminds us of the importance of celebrating life, honoring traditions, and coming together in joyous harmony. As it continues to evolve, this beautiful tradition will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of cultural heritage, spreading its message of love, unity, and feminine power for generations to come.
The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet – Jeff Goodell
The world is waking up to a new wildfires are now seasonal in California, the Northeast is getting less and less snow each winter, and the ice sheets in the Arctic and Antarctica are melting fast. Heat is the first order threat that drives all other impacts of the climate crisis. And as the temperature rises, it is revealing fault lines in our governments, our politics, our economy, and our values. The basic science is not Stop burning fossil fuels tomorrow, and the global temperature will stop rising tomorrow. Stop burning fossil fuels in 50 years, and the temperature will keep rising for 50 years, making parts of our planet virtually uninhabitable. It’s up to us. The hotter it gets, the deeper and wider our fault lines will open.
The Heat Will Kill You First is about the extreme ways in which our planet is already changing. It is about why spring is coming a few weeks earlier and fall is coming a few weeks later and the impact that will have on everything from our food supply to disease outbreaks. It is about what will happen to our lives and our communities when typical summer days in Chicago or Boston go from 90° F to 110°F. A heatwave, Goodell explains, is a predatory event— one that culls out the most vulnerable people. But that is changing. As heatwaves become more intense and more common, they will become more democratic.
As an award-winning journalist who has been at the forefront of environmental journalism for decades, Goodell’s new book may be his most provocative yet, explaining how extreme heat will dramatically change the world as we know it. Masterfully reported, mixing the latest scientific insight with on-the-ground storytelling, Jeff Goodell tackles the big questions and uncovers how extreme heat is a force beyond anything we have reckoned with before.
This story is in the form of emails exchanged by the protagonists. It’s something I have tried for the first time. Let me know how the story progressed and if this is something you enjoyed reading. So happy reading!
Subject: Hey there!
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: August 15, 2016
Hey Radhika,
Happy Independence Day! I came across your profile on that student forum and couldn’t help but reach out. You seem really interesting, and I think we might have a lot in common. I’m Rishi, by the way, a first-year cadet at the National Defence Academy. It’s my first time away from home, and I’m still getting used to the whole military life thing.
How’s life at BITS Pilani treating you? I hear it’s a pretty intense place for computer engineering. I’ve always been fascinated by technology, but I’m more of a hands-on person. What made you choose that field?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: Hey there!
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: August 16, 2016
Hi Rishi,
Thanks for reaching out! It’s great to hear from someone at the NDA. I can only imagine how different life must be there! BITS is definitely challenging, but I love it. I chose computer engineering because I’ve always been fascinated by how things work. Plus, I want to create software that can make a difference in people’s lives.
How are you finding the training at NDA? I’ve heard it’s quite rigorous. Do you get any free time to relax or pursue hobbies?
Can’t wait to hear more about your experiences!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Life at NDA
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: October 20, 2016
Hey Radhika,
Life at NDA is intense, to say the least! The training is rigorous, and we have a packed schedule. But I’ve managed to squeeze in some time for my hobbies. I love reading and playing sports, especially basketball. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day.
I also enjoy learning about strategy and leadership. It’s fascinating how much planning goes into everything, whether it’s a military operation or a group project.
What about you? What do you do to unwind after classes? Any favourite books or shows?
Looking forward to your reply!
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: Life at NDA
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: December 22, 2016
Hi Rishi,
Sorry for the late reply. I was busy with exams and project submissions! Now I am back home, just chilling and enjoying life.
After a long day of classes, I usually dive into some coding projects or binge-watch a series. Right now, I’m hooked on “Stranger Things.” It’s such a great mix of nostalgia and suspense!
I also love reading fiction, especially sci-fi. It’s amazing how authors envision the future. Do you have any favourite books?
I think it’s cool that you’re into strategy. Have you ever thought about how those skills might apply outside the military?
Can’t wait to hear more!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Books and Strategy
From:Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: March 25, 2017
Hey Radhika,
I’m just back from a camp. It was so intense. We could practically use all that we learned in school over the last six months. It was so much fun! I can’t wait to graduate and go out into my unit.
I’m a huge fan of fiction too! I recently read “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, and it resonated with me. It’s all about following your dreams and listening to your heart. I think those themes are universal, whether in the military or life.
As for strategy, I believe it’s essential in any field. Whether you’re leading a team in a project or navigating personal challenges, having a plan can make all the difference. I’m sure you’ll find that in your engineering projects too!
What’s your dream job after graduation? I’m curious to know what you envision for your future.
Best, Rishi
Subject: Future Aspirations
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: August 30, 2017
Hi Rishi,
Second year is so hard! It takes everything inside of me to just keep up! How do others do it. How are you doing?
That’s a great question about my future! I’m passionate about using technology for social good. I’d love to work on projects that help improve education or healthcare in underserved communities. There’s so much potential for tech to make a difference, and I want to be part of that change.
What about you? What are your aspirations after NDA? I imagine you have some exciting plans ahead!
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Aspirations and Dreams
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: December 5, 2017
Hey Radhika,
I admire your passion for using technology to make a difference. It’s inspiring to see someone so dedicated to creating positive change. As for me, I’m aiming to become an officer in the Indian Armed Forces. I want to serve my country and lead a team, making strategic decisions that can impact lives.
I think we both have a desire to contribute to society in our own ways. It’s pretty cool how our paths are different, yet we share similar values.
Let’s keep this conversation going. I really enjoy our exchanges!
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: Aspirations and Dreams
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: April 10, 2018
Hi Rishi,
I love how our conversations flow! It’s refreshing to talk to someone who understands the importance of making a difference. I’m excited to see where our paths take us.
I’m almost done with my second year at BITS and am halfway through my course. You must be almost done right?
By the way, I’ve been thinking about how we can support each other through this journey. Maybe we can share resources or tips related to our fields? I’d love to hear about your experiences at NDA and share some of my projects too.
Looking forward to your thoughts!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Supporting Each Other
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: July 15, 2018
Hey Radhika,
Yup! Third year just started a week back and I got back to the academy after a good trip home. That sounds like a fantastic idea! I’d love to share insights from my training, and I’m eager to learn more about your projects at BITS. We can create a little knowledge exchange!
I think it’s great that we have this connection. It’s nice to have someone who understands the challenges we face while pursuing our dreams.
Let’s make this a regular thing! I can’t wait to hear more about your projects.
Best, Rishi
Subject: A New Chapter
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: October 1, 2018
Hi Rishi,
I’m so glad we decided to connect like this! I’ve been working on a project for my software engineering class that focuses on developing an app for mental health support. I’d love to get your feedback on it once it’s ready!
How’s everything going at NDA? Any exciting training exercises or experiences you’d like to share?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Project Update
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: November 5, 2018
Hey Radhika,
Your project sounds amazing! Mental health is such an important topic, and I’m glad you’re working on something that can help people. I’d be more than happy to provide feedback once you have a prototype.
Things at NDA are going well. We recently had a field training exercise that was both challenging and rewarding. It’s incredible how teamwork plays a crucial role in everything we do. I’ll share more details in my next email.
Can’t wait to see your app!
Best, Rishi
Subject: Growing Together
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: February 15, 2019
Hi Rishi,
I appreciate your support! I’m working hard on the app and hope to have a prototype ready soon. I’ll definitely send it your way!
It’s inspiring to hear about your experiences at NDA. I can only imagine how much you’ve grown since you started. I feel the same way about my journey at BITS. Every challenge pushes me to become better.
Let’s keep pushing each other to grow!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Graduation
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: May 20, 2019
Hey Radhika,
I have some exciting news! I graduated from NDA last week and was commissioned as a lieutenant. It feels surreal to finally achieve this milestone after three years of hard work.
I’m getting ready for my first posting, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me. How’s everything going with you? Any updates from BITS?
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: Graduation from NDA
From: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in To: Rishi_Swaminathan@nda.edu.in Date: August 1, 2019
Hi Rishi,
Congratulations! That’s an amazing achievement, and I’m so proud of you. It must feel incredible to be a lieutenant now.
I’m in my final year now and am super busy with final year projects and also getting my portfolio ready for campus placements. Super excited to see where I end up in.
Let’s keep supporting each other as we navigate these new chapters in our lives.
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: First Posting
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@bits.edu.in Date: April 20, 2020
Hey Radhika,
I’ve been posted to a border area, and it’s quite different from NDA. The training is even more intense, and I’m learning a lot about leadership and teamwork in real-life situations.
I miss our chats, but I’m excited about the challenges ahead. How’s school treating you? Any interesting projects? Did you manage to get a placement?
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: First Posting From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: July 25, 2020
Hi Rishi,
It sounds like you’re doing great! I can only imagine how intense it must be at the border. I admire your dedication and commitment to serving our country.
I graduated from BITS last month and joined a tech company in Bangalore. It’s been a whirlwind of learning and adapting to the corporate world. I’m excited about the projects I’ll be working on!
Let’s keep supporting each other as we navigate these new chapters in our lives.
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Life Update From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com Date: October 10, 2020
Hey Radhika,
I wanted to let you know that I was involved in a skirmish last week. Thankfully, I’m okay, but I did sustain a minor injury. It’s a reminder of how unpredictable this job can be.
I’m recovering well and will be back on duty soon. Your support means a lot to me during times like these. How’s everything on your end?
Best, Rishi
Subject: Re: Life Update From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: October 20, 2020
Hi Rishi, I’m relieved to hear you’re okay! It must have been a terrifying experience. Please take care of yourself and rest as much as you can.
Work has been busy, but I’m enjoying the challenges. I recently got a promotion, which I’m excited about. It feels good to see my hard work paying off!
I’ll give you a call soon. Let’s keep supporting each other through these ups and downs.
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Promotion to Major From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com Date: February 10, 2021
Hey Radhika,
I have some news! I was promoted to major after my recovery. It feels great to be recognised for my efforts, especially after everything that’s happened.
I’m now stationed in Delhi, which is a big change from the border. I’m excited about the new opportunities here. How’s everything going with you? Now that I am stationed in a non sensitive area, how about we both meet up for the first time?
Best, Rishi
—
Subject: Offsite Opportunity From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: May 15, 2021
Hi Rishi,
Congratulations on your promotion! That’s a huge achievement, and I’m so proud of you. I knew you could do it!
I’ve been working hard at my job, and I’m currently leading a project that focuses on developing software for educational institutions. It’s fulfilling to see our work making a difference.
I also have news for you – as part of my project, I have been deputed to our headquarters in the US for a year. So we will have to move our meeting forward, at least until I am back.
However, let’s continue our video calls, but not stop writing emails to each other. I enjoy reading your emails. Let’s keep pushing each other to grow!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: Re: Offsite Opportunity
From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com Date: July 5, 2021
Hey Radhika, That’s fantastic news! I’m proud of you for taking this step. I know it will be a great experience for your career.
As for me, I’m settling into my new role in Delhi. It’s busy, but I’m enjoying the challenges. Let’s make sure to keep our conversations going, no matter the distance!
Best, Rishi
Subject: Back Home From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: June 30, 2023
Hi Rishi, My deputation is done and I will finally be back home! It would feel surreal to be home again. I can’t wait to catch up in person after all this time.
I arrive around midnight of July 15 and will be landing in Mumbai to catch up with family for a month before going back to Bangalore. Can we finally meet? I’ll call you once I am back in Indian soil and we can figure out where we can meet – either Delhi or Mumbai.
Looking forward to seeing you!
Cheers, Radhika
Subject: The Day Has Come From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com Date: July 5, 2023
Hey Radhika,
Welcome back to the motherland! I have a surprise for you when we finally meet.
Best, Rishi
Subject: Our First Meeting From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: July 10, 2023
Hi Rishi,
I can’t believe you did what you did!
It’s taken me the last four days to process all this – the way you waited at the airport for me to come out, with that huge bouquet of my favourite flowers – red roses and white lilies. And then going down on one knee to propose to me!! That too in front of my parents, your parents and all those onlookers….
I know I don’t say this more – I love you to the moon and back and can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you…
Love, Radhika
Subject: A lifetime together From: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com To: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com Date: December 15, 2023
Hi Rishi,
As I sit here in our hotel room in Manali on our honeymoon, I can’t help but reflect on our journey together. From the first email we exchanged to our wedding day, every moment has been filled with love and growth.
I’m so grateful for the connection we built over the years. It’s incredible to think about how two strangers became partners in life. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us.
I am going to continue to send you emails, so I can cherish our love and look back on our life together and before we were us.
Here’s to our forever!
Love, Radhika
Subject: Forever Together From: Rishi_Swaminathan@gmail.com To: Radhika_Mehta@gmail.com Date: December 16, 2023
Radhika my love,
I’m so glad we’re on this journey together. I can’t imagine my life without you. Thank you for being my partner, my love, and my best friend.
Here’s to many more adventures together!
Love you always, Rishi
And so, Rishi and Radhika embarked on their beautiful journey together, cherishing the love that had blossomed through words and experiences, leading them to a lifetime of happiness.
The People’s Hospital: Hope and Peril in American Medicine – Ricardo Nuila
Where does one go without health insurance, when turned away by hospitals, clinics, and doctors? In The People’s Hospital, physician Ricardo Nuila’s stunning debut, we follow the lives of five uninsured Houstonians as their struggle for survival leads them to a hospital where insurance comes second to genuine care.
First, we meet Stephen, the restaurant franchise manager who signed up for his company’s lowest priced plan, only to find himself facing insurmountable costs after a cancer diagnosis. Then Christian—a young college student and retail worker who can’t seem to get an accurate diagnosis, let alone treatment, for his debilitating knee pain. Geronimo, thirty-six years old, has liver failure, but his meager disability check disqualifies him for Medicaid—and puts a life-saving transplant just out of reach. Roxana, who’s lived in the community without a visa for more than two decades, suffers from complications related to her cancer treatment. And finally, there’s Ebonie, a young mother whose high-risk pregnancy endangers her life. Whether due to immigration status, income, or the vagaries of state Medicaid law, all five are denied access to care. For all five, this exclusion could prove life-threatening.
Each patient eventually lands at Ben Taub, the county hospital where Dr. Nuila has worked for over a decade. Nuila delves with empathy into the experiences of his patients, braiding their dramas into a singular narrative that contradicts the established idea that the only way to receive good healthcare is with good insurance. As readers follow the movingly rendered twists and turns in each patient’s story, it’s impossible to deny that our system is broken—and that Ben Taub’s innovative model, which emphasizes people over payments, could help light the path forward.
Memories and Such 