Area X, compiling Jeff VanderMeer’s Southern Reach trilogy, is now out in hardcover. VanderMeer assembled a playlist for it, and explained how to wash a mouse.

This Michelle Dean essay is one of the best things you’re likely to read this week.

Jen Doll delves into the history of the phrase “it’s complicated.”

WQXR visited Meredith Monk at home.

Justin Taylor discusses the importance of book tours.

At Pitchfork, notes on Noveller’s “Into the Dunes.”

Dusted has a review of the new album by John Wesley Coleman III.

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