Dear New York Times,

I would like to bemoan the fact that parents are doing such a good job monitoring their kids’ behavior on line. So much so it has become increasingly more difficult, nay, almost impossible, to engage them in delightful intergenerational conversation. In earlier days, it used to be so much easier to enjoy pleasant tête-à-tête with children of all ages, on various topics, ranging from “what’s the latest cool children’s book” to “what kind of backpacks are currently in.” All manner of things only they would know. Now it’s just an empty and lonely internet. I long for the days of old. But I press on.

          Sincerely,

          Joe Longo