This thought occurred to me independently — following my layoff, and when the economic stimulus drumbeat began — but I’m certain others like you came to it earlier. In the news business, it’s called a penny in the road story. That is, obvious. If you see it and pick it up, fine. If not, the next guy behind you will.
I’m told a similar essay will appear Sunday in the NYT book review, which must have comissioned it a month ago. I claim no proprietary interest.
Mark I. Pinsky