Life & Culture - Portland Press Herald

Thomas Gumbleton, Catholic bishop who opposed war and promoted social justice, dies at 94

by ED WHITE Associated Press April 5, 2024April 5, 2024

For decades, he was an international voice against war and racism and an advocate for labor and social justice.

Arts & Entertainment, Books, Maine, Schools and Education

Stephen King’s 50-year career has inspired a generation of writers and teachers

by Ray Routhier April 5, 2024April 11, 2024

Once thought of as a pop culture phenomenon, the Maine author is now studied by academics and aspiring writers.

Arts & Entertainment

I’ve covered Stephen King for most of his career. Here’s what I’ve learned.

by Ray Routhier April 5, 2024April 8, 2024

On the 50th anniversary of King’s first book, ‘Carrie,’ features writer Ray Routhier shares some tales from his more than 25 years of covering the author for the Press Herald.

Books, Nation & World

John Barth, novelist who orchestrated literary fantasies, dies at 93

by Harrison Smith The Washington Post April 4, 2024

His comic novels and metafictional stories made him a giant of postmodernism.

Arts & Entertainment

What Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ means to the Black Opry

by Emily Yahr The Washington Post April 4, 2024April 4, 2024

In the final moments of a Black Opry Revue show, where a traveling rotation of singer-songwriters take turns playing their individual songs and sharing the stories behind them, the singers like to gather for a group performance. During their show in the Washington area just over a week ago, the choice for the final song […]