Upon consider the year gone by, a selection of outstanding long-form pieces emerges. Such narratives delve into complex topics from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
The Mysterious Novelist and the Soul of a Country
Victor Pelevin became known in the post-Soviet era with biting critiques on autocratic rule. Whereas several of his writer peers have faced censorship or left the country, he continues to sell millions of books. It poses a pressing query: Has the author evolved into an defender for the Kremlin?
Endurance and Collaboration in Syria's Devastating Conflict
The account of a young man, who at 18 was informed that his sole route to escape prison was to enlist in the government military. Following 14 years, his past as one of the Syrian leader's soldiers may now get him killed.
The Fierce Argument Over Humanity's Ancient Origins
The discovery of fossilised remains in the Djurab sands in 2001 was hailed as completely changing the narrative of our species. Yet, a faction was in agreement. The ensuing heated scholarly debate has dominated the careers of paleoanthropologists ever since.
The British Cult That Hid in the Open
Philippa Barnes was just a young girl when her family became part of the a religious community. As an grown woman, she helped uncover the shocking extent of mistreatment it had committed.
A Leader's Puzzling Record on International Law
Numerous supporters expected that the former human rights lawyer would renew the UK's dedication to international law. Yet, the performance over the past year has been notably inconsistent.
Shattering a Country's Identity
A documentary tracking a remorseful con artist as she ensnares unscrupulous individuals with covert recording raises difficult queries: Is this person really reformed, and is the filmmaker's true methods?
A Man Who Cleans the UK's Darkest Scenes
From homicide sites to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their stickiest hours, individuals rely on him to bring back order.
Will an Famous Institution Survive an "Perfect Storm"?
Burdened by restitution claims, strained funding and the discovery of an insider theft, Britain's number one cultural institution is in deep trouble. The question remains: Is it possible to repair its standing?
More Than "Pregnancy Nausea": The Torture of Extreme Pregnancy
Known as hyperemesis gravidarum and once labeled 'pernicious vomiting' by the 19th century, this condition has for centuries lacked an consistent treatment solution – until potentially now.
A Spectre of Extremism in Modern Government
A violent extremist and early advocate of hate, a rabbi died a marginalized pariah 35 years ago. In the present day, his ideas shape the highest echelons of government.
An British Professional With a Fraudulent Side
With his keen mind and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth individuals trusted him with their fortunes. Until they started to get suspicious.
The Tiny State That Emerged as the Global Mediation Capital
An incredibly rich country has become a major actor on the world stage, attempting to solve some of the most complex conflicts. What are driving this unprecedented endeavor?
A Close-Up Look at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Deeply disliked at home, President Macron enjoys the world arena, where he presents himself as the statesman most equipped to manage a certain sitting US president. 7 years after their previous encounter, a writer joined him as he readied himself for the summit.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an wealthy family end up at the Old Bailey with her companion, charged with the death of their two-week-old infant?
The End of a Global Development Organization: Far From Universal Mourning
When efforts were made to dismantle a prominent development organization, many around the globe were taken aback. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unexpected.
A Disturbing 1960s Experiment on South Asian Mothers
When details about a scientific experiment in the sixties were revealed, there was immense shock. But the full story of the events is still partially shrouded.
A "Mozart" of the Online Economy
He's spent a full day in slime, 48 hours underground – and distributed enormous amounts of money to lucky contestants. But are these stunts simply incredibly clever clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Country Threatened by the Encroaching Seas
With the ocean rising, much of Tuvalu's residents is grappling with the possibility that their home may in the near future become uninhabitable. The pressing question is: Where are they supposed to go?
One Tragic Case of Youth Homelessness
As I met a young boy he was 13 and without a home. I still thought his life might turn around. I was tragically misplaced.
A Global Artificial Intelligence Competition and a Pivotal Defection
In 2020, after spending decades in the US, Song-Chun Zhu took a one-way ticket to his home country. Today, he might possess the key to which nation prevails in the worldwide technological rivalry.
The finest narratives