Electronic Pen

Sen. Ted Kennedy, the legendary lawmaker, has died at age 77 after a long battle with brain cancer. This 2002 Nation profile by the late Jack Newfield captures what he's meant to progressives.

Robert Scheer Born of privilege, and yet absorbed with the fate of those in need, Sen. Ted Kennedy's intense commitment to progressive ideals is an inspiration.

• Video: Kennedy on Healthcare Reform-'The Cause of My Life'

William Greider While the mainstream press portrays newly reappointed Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke as a mild-mannered hero, the reality is he is responsible for much of the economic pain Americans are feeling.

John Nichols The investigation into torture could be thwarted by a GOP counter-attack and an echo chamber determined to protect Bush and Cheney.

• Ari Melber: Did Holder Do Enough?

Ari Melber After much anticipation and pressure from progressives, Attorney General Eric Holder appoints a special prosecutor to investigate Bush-era torture. But did he go far enough?

• John Nichols: Holder and Obama Should Focus on Accountability

Ange Mlinko Conlangs often succeed only in stripping language of its surprise.

• Barry Schwabsky: Beyond Exhaustion
• James Longenbach: A Music of Austerity

Barry Schwabsky Does the art of Dan Graham and his disciples promise deceptive simplicity or formulaic thinking?

• James Longenbach: A Music of Austerity

James Longenbach In his best poems, Wallace Stevens makes deprivation feel seductively like plenitude.

• Barry Schwabsky: Beyond Exhaustion