The truth has to be plain enough to see, or else there isn’t much point to the advice. However, if you hit people between the eyes with it, you risk making them hate you so much they won’t listen.
Your column targets the under-30 crowd. Is it tough to relate to a generation that lionizes the likes of Nicole Ritchie and Jessica Simpson?
I feel I’m in a position to teach what really matters, coming as I do from the generation that lionized Pamela Anderson.
If you could dole out advice to the (ah, somewhat) younger Carolyn Hax, what would you tell her?
Choose more carefully the people you try to please. Then don’t try to please them, either. And, mix some weights in with your cardio so your joints still work when you’re 40.
Were you a “Dear Abby” or a “Dear Ann Landers” fan?
Neither, really. I don’t read advice columns unless I stumble across one while
I still have some cereal left in my bowl.
How many e-mails or letters do you receive, on average, each week? And do you answer them all?
I don’t keep track of my mail volume. I just know I receive a lot more than I can answer, so I answer only for publication. I do try at least to read them all, though.
Ever faced a queried conundrum that stumped you entirely?
Every day. Try: “I don’t love my spouse, but I don’t want to break up my children’s home.” Or: “Early in my relationship, I cheated. Now we’re serious. Do I tell?”
Who on the public stage hasn’t written to you for advice, but you wish would?
Pass. Last thing I need is someone returning the favor.
Newspapers: Any thoughts on how to keep them relevant in this Internet-obsessed, instant-news age?
To me, they’ll remain relevant for the same reasons they’ve been relevant: depth and accountability. Plus, I already look at a screen all day. If net-junkies kill newsprint and I have to peer into some device over breakfast, I’ll cry.
Who advises you?
Friends, family, the voices dripping from the walls. Same as anyone else.
Washington: Your counsel could change one thing about the city. What would it be?
“If it’s not yours, then don’t take it.” Crime and corruption solved.