In a world where every secretion from every gland or organ is proudly displayed, liked, tweeted, info-whatever'd, and so forth, it is difficult to understand how utterly fascinating it was to open a newspaper and read one of "Dear Abby's" advice columns. It was cold comfort to read about the bad luck or complaint of some Joe Shmoe, and then read Abby slice him a new one.
Abigail Van Buren (Dear Abby) was the pen name of Pauline Phillips, who died today. Her twin sister, Eppie Lederer, also ran an advice column under the name Ann Landers.
For many in my generation, though, invoking the name of "Dear Abby" evokes this song by John Prine. John, take it away...
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