Unbreaking News

Stories, reflections, sincere appreciations and cynical takes on the world, the past, present, and possible future through the skewed inside-outside lens of a former diplomat

Perspectives of the dusty roads diplomat

Following 30 years in the foreign service most of them spent abroad, I figure why not give extemporaneous writing a shot? I’ve always found myself scribbling and doodling regardless, inside and outside any professional role. Leaning into my weaknesses (and strength), I’ll strive for a certain abroad-at home, at home-abroad, shape-shifting, multi-lens point of view.

This space will be a bit of a mixed bag at first and maybe always: foreign service-type stories (mine and those of others), reflections on this or that issue, character or current, past or possible future event. The occasional hopeful appreciation and/or cynical take on other matters too. Once a generalist always a generalist I guess.

The undersung side of the foreign-service…

The stories and reflections component of this newsletter may be of special interest to those hoping to pursue an international affairs/foreign service-type career. But please note: with a focus on its fun, original, off-the-beaten-track dimension, not its serious, official, policy-wonk side (very important, don’t get me wrong, but not my aim here.) I will also seek instructive stories and fun reflections from friends, fellow travelers and colleagues, current and former, to throw into this mix, as appropriate and possible. As for the critical and/or appreciative commentary, I hope to cast a wide net. I’ll try to stake out a non-ideological, non-tribal, multiple perspective, encouraging playful, constructive, potentially edifying exchanges while eschewing (I hope) the angry, nonsensical debates of the age.

Weekly news that doesn’t break (maybe more)

Ezra Pound once said that literature was “news that stays news.” While the production of literature surpasses any ambition of mine, I’m confident no scoops will be found in this space. On the contrary, I’m as likely as not to spend time sifting through the remains of the day and the detritus of yesterday. I expect to post once a week, maybe more, depending on the state of play (and mind) and whatever other X factor might gain unexpected relevance along the way. Assuming the overwhelming enthusiasm of countless readers and fans, I will inaugurate a paid option down the line. But frankly, that ambition feels fantastical to me right now. Stay tuned.

One can do worse than be a scribbler on Substack. I look forward to the back and forth!