Props are supports. You prop up a structure on a scaffold while bolting or welding it in place. A friend can prop you up when you’re down. In theatercraft, a prop supports the fiction of the ...

One of my favorite books of all time is “Oranges” by John McPhee. When I tell people this, they ask me what it’s about. “Oranges,” I say. “No, seriously; what’s it about?” “Oranges.” This is when they ...