The Two Faces of Paul Krugman

Stephen Spruiell’s characterization of Paul Krugman’s difficulties as an opinion journalist is compelling (“Professor Ahab,” October 18). As a graduate student at the University of Chicago, I found Krugman’s text on international economics to be built on sturdy thinking; of his meanderings as a journalist, one cannot say the same. As for his particular ideology and normative leanings, when were they ever linked to rational thought?

However, Mr. Spruiell may be protesting too much. Mr. Krugman is a writer for an opinion section that expresses emotion and partisanship more than coherency.

So we might say that, as a columnist, Paul Krugman is only doing his job.

Matt Andersson

Oak Brook, Ill.

Courtesy Flush

Rob Long’s spirited defense of his bathroom (“Dim Idea,” October 4) compels me to sedition. Although contemporary toilets dispense only 1.6 gallons per flush, their tanks typically contain at least twice as much. If one holds the flush handle down for several seconds, the tank’s entire contents can be dedicated to dealing with, shall we say, one’s interactions with the vitreous throne.

I hope that my treason can help others flush with success, and regret that I have but one ecofatwa to drown for my country.

David N. Baxter

Webster, N.Y.

Missing Mark

Whatever happened to Mark Steyn? Quit? Fired? On sabbatical? Sent to a far-left reeducation facility?

Bill Claggett

Via e-mail

The Editors reply: Mr. Steyn is on leave.