Well, hello! Thanks for dropping by.

The Awl is a New York City-based website, established in early 2009.

All day each weekday, discussion of the issues of the day—politics, culture (including even television) and ideas—takes place in both short and long form.

Its editorial focus is not particularly hemmed in, as it is guided by the interests of its writers and editors. We do enjoy a good video of a bear running amok as much as we do London mayoral politics. (And when the two meet? Heaven!) In the end, however, we return most frequently to New York City and its self-centered, all-consuming industries: media and publishing, finance and real estate, politics and capitalism and gamesmanship.

The website is run by two editors, Alex Balk and Choire Sicha, and supported by the contributions of excellent folks from near and far. You may reach the editors at notes@theawl.com.

Its publisher is David Cho, and you are welcome to contact him regarding any sort of business activity, including advertising and other opportunities for your brand. You may reach him at advertising@theawl.com.

An "awl," by the way, is a "pointed tool used for punching small holes," often utilized in wood and leather craft. Here is how you pronounce the word "awl," both with UK and US accents. Finally, our motto, "Be Less Stupid," is intended with some humor.

Thanks again for visiting. We appreciate it.