"In practical coalitional politics, the 'center' will tend to be shaped not by rational thinking but by money and power. If there is any space left for bipartisanship in US politics, it is around measures that benefit corporate elites."

"When we talk about 'triggers,' are we talking about PTSD? I have read thousands and thousands of words on this subject, and I have no idea."

"Moderates often aren't moderate at all. They're just inconsistent. And that lets them be more extreme."

"Now, I find myself wishing that all the fascinated cab drivers and dinner party attendants and concerned well-wishers that used to ask me that question, their heads tilted benignly—'So, what’s up with the violence in Chicago?'—I wish they had interest in this kind of violence. The slow, quiet kind."

"The thought of making more money and teaching classes of 15 instead of 34, and especially not having to deal with all the nonsense, was too much to refuse."

"Once I knew I’d survive, I wanted to be home for this."

"Each evening she soaked nine golden raisins in a pint of gin and let them sit overnight."

"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their problematic ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."

"We’ll no longer put a chicken in a maze and slaughter it as a reward for solving the maze."

Steve Thorngate

The Century managing editor is also a church musician and songwriter.

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