Nine Surprising Stories That Shaped Our Understanding in 2025

In 2025, a series of compelling stories emerged that challenged perceptions and expanded understanding in various fields. The Walrus, a Canadian publication known for its in-depth journalism, curated nine notable articles that opened new perspectives for both the editorial team and its readers. These pieces, selected for their unique insights and thought-provoking narratives, reflect the complexities of society, culture, and personal experiences.

Examining the Publishing Industry’s Challenges

One standout feature was Tajja Isen‘s essay, “The Publishing Industry Has a Gambling Problem.” In this article, Isen interviewed writers, editors, and literary agents to explore the detrimental impact of “sales track”—a measure of a writer’s book sales. Low sales figures can stifle a writer’s career before it truly begins, affecting how agents pitch subsequent works. The piece not only highlighted the voices of industry insiders but also illuminated the harsh realities faced by debut authors. Isen effectively addressed a question that resonates with many readers: what happens to authors who do not receive a second chance?

Revisiting Radicalization and Redemption

In another powerful narrative, journalist Michelle Shephard delved into the life of Zakaria Amara, a former member of the Toronto 18 terror plot. In her article, “How a Would-Be Bomber Rebuilt His Life,” Shephard examined Amara’s journey of rehabilitation following his release on parole in 2022. This introspective piece scrutinized not only Amara’s transformation but also Shephard’s role in shaping public perception during his trial. Through her exploration, Shephard raised critical questions about the media’s influence on the narrative surrounding extremism and the complexity of forgiveness.

Understanding Stalking: A Societal Challenge

The issue of stalking was compellingly addressed by Sheima Benembarek in her feature, “Why Don’t We Take Stalking More Seriously?.” Drawing from over a year of interviews with stalking survivors and experts, Benembarek revealed the disturbing reality of criminal harassment. This article provided an informed perspective on the societal factors contributing to stalking behaviors and emphasized the need for a collective effort to address and combat this pervasive issue.

Reflections on Aging and Legacy

In a poignant memoir, Arno Kopecky reflected on his father’s battle with dementia and the legacy of his scientific career in “A Son, a Scientist, and the Secret of Bioluminescence.” Kopecky illustrated the bittersweet nature of aging, celebrating his father’s achievements while acknowledging the challenges posed by cognitive decline. His narrative resonated deeply, reminding readers of the value of life experiences and the importance of cherishing memories.

Confronting Youth Violence

Journalist Inori Roy tackled a troubling incident involving a group of teenage girls charged with the murder of Kenneth Lee in Toronto. In “Why Did a Group of Teenage Girls Kill a Man in a Downtown Toronto Parkette?,” Roy meticulously followed the judicial proceedings, seeking to understand the motivations behind the attack. Her reporting raised important questions about societal influences, education, and the responsibilities of youth in a complex world.

Exploring Unique Cultural Phenomena

Sarah Everts‘ coverage of the World Sauna Championships offered a lighter yet equally fascinating perspective on cultural practices. In “The Steamy, Sweaty, Towel-Spinning Weirdness of the World Sauna Championships,” Everts detailed the bizarre yet entertaining competition held in Italy. Competitors showcased their skills through elaborate performances, highlighting the quirky side of sauna culture. This article not only entertained but also illustrated the diverse ways communities celebrate their traditions.

Innovative Approaches to Death

Ellen Himelfarb‘s essay, “The Dearly Departed Are Getting Creative with Death,” challenged conventional views on mortality and burial practices. Himelfarb explored innovative alternatives such as human composting and aquamation, presenting a fresh perspective on how society approaches death. Her wit and creativity made a typically somber topic engaging and thought-provoking.

Immigrant Experiences in Canada

In a commentary on immigration and professional underemployment, Anam Zakaria and Haroon Khalid highlighted the struggles of skilled immigrants in Canada in “Canada Is Wasting the Talent of Immigrants It Invites Here—Just Ask Your Uber Driver.” They illustrated the disconnect between the country’s labor needs and the employment challenges faced by newcomers. Their findings underscored an urgent issue: the potential for Canada’s economy to gain up to $50 billion in annual GDP if immigrants were fully integrated into their fields.

Connecting Communities Across Borders

Lastly, Andrew Seale provided a unique perspective on the experiences of Quebec snowbirds in Florida in “Little Quebec Was Built to Escape Winter. Now It’s Melting Away.” This article explored the community dynamics of French-speaking Canadians in a warmer climate, emphasizing themes of identity and belonging. Seale’s observations brought to light the cultural connections that persist despite geographical separation.

These nine stories from The Walrus not only surprised readers but also challenged perceptions, prompting deeper reflections on various societal issues. Each piece serves as a reminder of the power of journalism to inform, engage, and inspire change.