I wrote something a little bit mean recently. At least, it started that way. My algorithm was bombarding me with different software options for writing, and maybe I was getting too many questions on how to write (spoiler: I have no idea) and I was just like: you just do it.
In talking through the essay with a friend, we turned it into something much more generous about what it’s like to write in this strange tech moment.
There is a new Substack called A Good Think, and it is from the good people at PEN Canada, and they were kind/crazy enough to let me publish the essay there.
*They also have a banned book book club. Initial interviews are with Mike Curato and Jim Turk.
PEN’s next event is coming up (quickly) on October 1st. It will raise money for a new PEN fund that will support writers living in exile in Canada. You can get a ticket or place an auction bid here.
PEN Canada also presents the Graeme Gibson talk at TIFA (the Toronto International Festival of Authors). Featuring a personal introduction by Margaret Atwood, the 2026 PEN Canada Graeme Gibson Talk brings together Wall Street Reporter Evan Gershkovich, Canadian author and broadcast journalist Carol Off, and international human rights lawyer and writer Philippe Sands in conversation with Nahlah Ayed, host of CBC Ideas. It’s on October 27th and you can get tickets here. I’m looking forward to it.
Other recent writing from yours truly:
The Walrus - Canada is losing the fight on foreign ownership
The Globe and Mail - The dangers of letting AI agents do your shopping
The Toronto Star - If Canada wants to move away from Elon Musk, this is how it should do it
The Peak - How Docusign killed the signature '
And of course, we’re always writing about how we can make Canada stronger and more resilient at The Canadian Shield Institute. Our newsletter is The National Interest.