Whatever: A New Collection of Later Essays, 1987–2001

“Whatever is a reference to the millennial way of ending an argument. It used to mean ‘anything,’ or ‘no matter,’ but . . . is now the trendy equivalent of saying all right, have it your way but this is my take on the subject.” The essays—by one of the most widely read essayists in the country—are offered in that spirit.

Published in 2002. Winner, 2002 National Book Award, for Essay.