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Quote of the Day: Writer George Orwell on Happiness—‘Men Can Only Be Happy’ When They Aren’t Searching for Happiness as Life’s Main Point
Whether you’ve read 1984 or not, George Orwell’s iconic book has embedded itself into our collective consciousness, introducing concepts like “Big Brother,” “Thought Police,” “doublethink” and more. You’ve probably even heard of the term “Orwellian,” which comes from his name and famous novel. It’s an adjective that’s used to describe something that is opposed to or the antithesis of a free society, like the dystopian world in 1984.
But of course, Orwell didn’t just write that book; a few years before that, he wrote the novella, Animal Farm, a “political fable based on the story of the Russian Revolution,” per Britannica. He also wrote many essays, articles and more; most of them were variations of political commentary, social criticism and shared his opposition to totalitarianism. And in one of those essays comes our quote of the day, which highlights his thoughts on how hard it is to find happiness in times of turmoil.
Orwell was born Eric Blair in 1903 in India, since his father was serving the British Empire at the time. According to the Orwell Foundation, Orwell is deemed as “one of the world’s most influential writers” and a “visionary author.” After a few years of health struggles and being hospitalized for tuberculosis, he died in January 1950 at the age of 46 due to complications brought on by his illness, per Britannica.
He was well-known internationally for his novels, writing and journalism right up until his death, and his legacy lives on today. Orwell had a lot of scathing, witty and very valid things to say about politics, government and society. And he didn't shy away from satirizing and commenting on even complicated or controversial topics like revolutions, world leaders and even his friends. Today's quote is from an essay he wrote about one of his closest writer confidants, and it very much doesn't shy from criticism, talking about how it's easier to find happiness when it's not your main goal in life.
Quote of the Day by George OrwellCanvaPro/Parade
“Men can only be happy when they do not assume that the object of life is happiness.”
This quote appears in George Orwell’s Critical Essays, published in 1946. This is a collection of pieces Orwell wrote during wartime and touches on various topics, from English literature to pop culture.
Specifically, this line is in the chapter (or essay) titled “Arthur Koestler,” which is dated 1944 and named after the Austro-Hungarian-born author and journalist. Orwell and Koestler were friends who met during the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s and bonded as they were both a part of leftist and anti-fascist causes, per the Orwell Institute. They “had a friendship based on shared concerns about totalitarianism, political ideologies and the impact of World War II.”
A couple of paragraphs above this quote, Orwell writes that Koestler calls himself a “short-term pessimist,” that he deals with “every kind of horror” that’s “blowing up over the horizon,” but that he believes that “somehow it will all come right in the end.” Which—as World War II was brewing and the rise of fascism was happening in multiple countries—was an accurate description of the times. And so, because of that, Orwell does note that this way of thinking and looking at life was probably becoming popular.
“Since about 1930, the world has given no reason for optimism whatever,” he writes.
Then, he says that really only those who are religious have a view that allows them not to wallow in despair, but he then notes that that group of people is diminishing. He then writes the line:
“The real problem is how to restore the religious attitude while accepting death as final. Men can only be happy when they do not assume that the object of life is happiness.”
Deeper Meaning of George Orwell’s Quote—Happiness in LifeThis 1944 essay includes a lot of Orwell’s deep thoughts on political revolutions, leftist ideals and how Koestler thinks that the only outcome to revolutions is to become a “short-term pessimist.” And in that context, this quote basically means that, in a world that is between two world wars and in a lot of political turmoil and civil unrest, humans can’t think about the meaning of life being happiness, because happiness seems so far gone.
As he notes right before our quote of the day, Orwell writes that Christian churches would go out of business if they only had “their own merits” to survive with, and not a promise of eternal life to their congregation. So, if people didn’t have the hope of an afterlife, they might fall into a doom spiral. Or if they held onto the hope that one day they could achieve the full purpose of life—to be happy—they would also be distraught because “happiness” does not feel attainable in their current climate.
We all have different responsibilities and challenges in our lives, and while they might bring about feelings of stress or discomfort at times (instead of happiness 24/7), empathy, sacrifice and self-growth that leads to resilience often leads to a true, greater contentment in ourselves than simply being "happy" because nothing is going wrong.
Related: Quote of the Day: Ralph Waldo Emerson on Self-Reliance and Staying True to Yourself
More Quotes from George Orwell- “Progress is not an illusion, it happens, but it is slow and invariably disappointing.”
- “The average millionaire is only the average dishwasher dressed in a new suit.”
- “Whoever is winning at the moment will always seem to be invincible.”
- “Doublethink means the power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one's mind simultaneously, and accepting both of them.”
- “If you want a vision of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face – forever.”
- “There are some situations from which one can only escape by acting like a devil or a lunatic.”
- “The consequences of every act are included in the act itself.”
Up Next:
Drew Barrymore Says This Is One of the Most Important Parts of Her Wellness Routine
Drew Barrymore has spent decades in the spotlight as an actress, producer, entrepreneur and daytime talk show host. But one role she may value most these days is getting a good night's sleep.
Barrymore has teamed up with Rest as the company's Sleep Wellness Advocate, lending her support to a brand focused on helping people get cooler, more comfortable rest.
"I'm thrilled to team up with Rest as their official Sleep Wellness Advocate," Barrymore says. "Everyone needs good sleep, and Rest is continuing to build a strong community dedicated to understanding the importance of sleep and the science behind it."
View this post on InstagramThe collaboration reflects a growing focus on sleep health, a category that has exploded in recent years as consumers increasingly look for products designed to improve everything from comfort to temperature regulation.
Founded with a focus on solving common sleep challenges, Rest has built its reputation around cooling bedding and sleep products designed for people who tend to overheat at night.
Unlike many bedding brands that outsource product development, the company conducts its research, development and manufacturing under one roof. According to Rest, that allows products to be tested, refined and improved more quickly based on customer feedback and performance data.
View this post on InstagramOne of the company's signature innovations is Evercool, a proprietary cooling fabric engineered to absorb and release heat more efficiently than traditional materials. Rest says the fabric combines high-conductivity yarns, moisture-wicking fibers and a breathable knit construction designed to help regulate temperature throughout the night.
The partnership with Barrymore isn't the only attention Rest has received.
The company's Evercool Cooling Comforter was recognized in Good Housekeeping's 2024 Best Bedding Awards, marking the second consecutive year the publication honored the product.
According to Good Housekeeping, experts spent five months evaluating hundreds of sleep products, while more than 300 testers weighed in on factors including comfort, durability, support and overall performance.
One tester praised the comforter's cooling properties, noting that it helped maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
The recognition added to a growing list of accolades for the brand, whose cooling products have also received attention from outlets including Apartment Therapy and Cosmopolitan.
For Barrymore, the partnership appears to align with a broader philosophy about wellness and taking care of oneself.
"Sleep is a personal experience for everyone," she said. "I believe Rest is a brand that can truly help transform sleep for the better."
She echoed that sentiment on social media, writing that quality sleep helps her become "the best version" of herself for her family, friends and work.
As sleep continues to become a larger part of the wellness conversation, partnerships like Barrymore's with Rest highlight how seriously both consumers and brands are taking the pursuit of better rest.
Target Has a 'Cute' Wooden Wagon Planter That Adds Charm to Any Porch for $40 Ahead of Circle Deal Days
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If your porch, patio, or front steps could use something cuter than another basic planter, Target has an adorable wagon-shaped option on sale right now. The Costway Wooden Wagon Planter comes in three colors: brown, green, and red, all of which are marked down to just $40 right now ahead of Circle Deal Days.
The planter measures 24.5 inches long by 13.5 inches wide by 24 inches high and weighs 5.5 pounds. It’s made from fir wood and metal, with a freestanding design, a long front handle, and four metal wheels. It has a 33-pound weight capacity and includes one garden bed. It’s also important to note that it doesn't have drainage holes, so you may want to use it for potted plants or add your own drainage if you plan to plant directly in it.
Costway Wooden Wagon Planter, $40 (was $76) at Target Shop at TargetIt can hold flowers, herbs, succulents, faux stems, seasonal decor, or a mix of smaller pots. The wagon shape gives it a more unique look than a standard rectangular planter, especially near a front door, on a balcony, or in a garden corner. And since it’s on wheels and under six pounds before plants are added, it’s also much easier to shift around than a larger raised bed.
Shoppers have called the wagon “very beautiful” and “perfect for plant lovers.” “It's practical for holding plants and adds a charming, rustic vibe to my outdoor space,” one person wrote, while another called it “so cute” and “very easy to put together.”
The brown color is the most classic option if your porch already has wood tones or a farmhouse-style setup. The green style would look cute with herb, terracotta pots, or a small cottage garden arrangement. The red shade has a more vintage garden feel and would be especially fun for summer flowers, fall mums, or holiday greenery later in the year.
Shop More Deals- Sunnydaze Outdoor Wooden Raised Planter Box, $64 (was $162) at Target
- Best Choice Products Outdoor Metal Raised Garden Bed, $90 (was $158) at Target
- Costway Elevated Plastic Raised Garden Bed Kit, $55 (was $65) at Target
The Costway Wooden Wagon Planter ticks all the boxes of being compact, decorative, and practical enough for potted plants, herbs, and seasonal porch displays. If your outdoor space needs one more cute detail before summer, be sure to grab it while the deal is still live at Target.
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.
The Most Devastating 'Twilight Zone' Ending Ever Aired
More than six decades after it first aired, one episode of The Twilight Zone continues to haunt viewers—and not because of monsters, aliens or things that go bump in the night.
That episode is "Time Enough at Last."
Originally broadcast on Nov. 20, 1959, the classic installment stars Burgess Meredith as Henry Bemis, a mild-mannered bank teller whose greatest love in life is reading.
There's just one problem: Everyone around him seems determined to keep him from enjoying it. His boss scolds him for reading on the job. His wife ridicules his hobby and even sabotages his books.
All Henry wants is time alone with his beloved novels.
Then, in true Twilight Zone fashion, he gets exactly what he wished for.
Without spoiling every detail, a catastrophic event leaves Henry seemingly alone in the world. At first, it appears to be a dream come true.
No interruptions.
No demands.
No one telling him to stop reading.
For the first time in his life, he has all the time he could ever want. And then comes one of the most famous endings in television history.
What makes "Time Enough at Last" so unforgettable isn't just its twist—it's the cruel irony behind it. Rod Serling's story taps into a universal fear: finally getting everything you've ever wanted only to discover it comes at a terrible cost.
The episode has been referenced and parodied countless times over the years, from animated comedies to pop culture tributes, yet the original still lands with remarkable force.
Viewers continue to debate whether Henry's fate is unfair, deserved or simply a reflection of life's randomness. That's part of what keeps the episode alive decades later.
"I read somewhere that Rod Serling has two favorite episodes," said one Reddit user. "This is one of them."
"I see this story as the nightmare of limitations of choice. How difficult it is to backtrack and get off a path once you're on it - especially in rigid societies where divorce is as frowned upon as 1950s US would have been," another Redditor pointed out in the thread.
"I completely disagree that there has to be a lesson," another chimed in.
"It's a horror anthology, the episode is about the irony that he will find himself in a terrible situation, though one where he can finally do the things he wants, the contrast between a world with people though a situation where he cannot do the thing he loves most, to the extremity of a world where he can read *because* everyone is dead, only for his glasses to break at the revel of it all, leaving him aware, and alone, though unable to read."
Unlike many television twists that lose their power once you know the ending, "Time Enough at Last" becomes even more unsettling on repeat viewings. You know what's coming, but you still hope somehow it will turn out differently.
That's the magic of The Twilight Zone at its best. The show's greatest episodes weren't really about science fiction or fantasy. They were about human nature, disappointment, hope and irony.
Vinyl Collectors Are Snatching Up Target's Stylish 5-Tier Storage Upgrade
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Home storage solutions come in many different forms. Some are designed purely for functionality, while others blend seamlessly with existing home decor to add style, dimension and versatility to your space. Whichever type you need, Target is full of storage finds that not only elevate your home but also add a touch of character too.
Case in point: the JIONJOY Record Player Stand with Vinyl Storage. Retailing for just $32.99, this stylish, space-saving find is ideal for music enthusiasts looking for a creative way to display their favorite records. With a new season ahead and plans to entertain guests filling your calendar, this is just the home upgrade you need to kick the party off right.
JIONJOY Record Player Stand with Vinyl Storage, $32.99 at Target JIONJOY Record Player Stand with Vinyl Storage Shop It!Sporting an ergonomic, tall design that maximizes vertical space, the JIONJOY Record Player Stand has an extremely compact footprint, making it perfect for small apartments, narrow corners and tiny rooms alike. It also normally retails for $50, making its current $33 price tag very hard to pass up.
Featuring a 5-tier design complete with 3 tiers of front-facing vinyl display racks and 2 large hidden storage shelves, this stand offers more than enough space for your record player, speakers, audio equipment, books and magazines. It can also hold up to 200 records at a time, allowing you to sort your collection by genre or preference, while its open display design makes it easy to find your next listen in seconds.
Related: Target's Stylish $24 Home Upgrade Is a Mobile 3-Tier Storage Solution
JIONJOY Record Player Stand with Vinyl StorageAdding to its charm, the stand is constructed with a premium powder-coated, rust-resistant metal frame and thickened waterproof wooden panels for a super sturdy build. And thanks to its mid-century modern style, it also fits seamlessly with a wide range of home decor. Even better, you can repurpose it as a bookshelf, display rack or audio media stand for a home theater, living room, game room, bedroom, home studio and beyond.
If you’re eyeing one up for yourself, keep in mind that some assembly is required, though all the tools, parts and instructions are included to make the process a breeze. And to ensure years of keeping its brand new shine, simply spot clean with a damp rag every other week and be sure to dust off your record player while you’re at it, too.
Whether you’re a vinyl collector or not, this versatile record stand is a game changer when it comes to creative storage solutions. Snag one for yourself while the price is still right, or gift it to a friend who would love to elevate their own collection. While you’re at it, check out Target’s Mini Rattan Table Lamp and Dimensional Wall Art for more home decor inspo.
Related: Aldi's Stylish $30 Summer Essential Is Perfect for Outdoor Adventures
Taylor Swift Is the Only Artist With Two Songs on This Strange Ranking
Taylor Swift may be one of the most widely recognized artists in the world. But even global superstardom hasn’t made her lyrics immune to misinterpretation.
Swift, 36, stands out as the only artist to appear twice in the top 20 most misheard songs in a new analysis—an unusual distinction for someone whose songwriting has defined a generation of pop music.
Across Swift's music catalog, listeners have submitted nearly 300 reported misheard lyrics, a figure that reflects both her immense popularity and the intricacy of her songwriting. Her music is known for fast-paced delivery, emotionally layered phrasing and carefully crafted lyrical detail, all of which can make individual words surprisingly easy to mishear in real time.
One of the clearest examples comes from her 2019 hit "Cruel Summer."
Clocking in at a rapid 151 words per minute, the song moves quickly through its verses, leaving little room for pause or clarity in certain moments. One lyric—"He looks up, grinnin' like a devil"—is frequently misheard as "He looks so pretty like a devil," a shift that subtly changes both tone and interpretation of the line.
Another standout example is her 2014 single "Blank Space."
The song is built around irony, character storytelling and sharp lyrical turns. But the line "Got a long list of ex-lovers" has famously been misheard by many listeners as "Got a list of Starbucks lovers," a misinterpretation that took on a life of its own online and became a long-running fan joke.
Despite these lyrical mix-ups, Swift’s popularity has only continued to grow. Over the past two decades, she has evolved from country breakout star to global pop powerhouse, culminating in the record-breaking success of her Eras Tour, which sold approximately 4.3 million tickets beginning in 2023. Her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level has remained constant, even as her sound and storytelling have expanded.
Still, her lyrical complexity may actually be part of the appeal. Swift’s songwriting often relies on nuance, layered meaning and conversational phrasing that mirrors real speech more than traditional pop structure.
Combined with varied vocal delivery and production styles that shift from album to album, it creates a listening experience that rewards close attention, but also leaves room for frequent mishearing.
RELATED: This Iconic Elton John Song Is Misheard More Than Any Other
NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Saturday, June 20, 2026
You'll need to brush up on some classic sports terms in order to solve today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.
So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Saturday, June 20, 2026, you've come to the right place.
Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.
This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.
As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."
Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle
Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on June 20, 2026Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.
- Yellow: Big Apple baseball.
- Green: Bike race clothing.
- Blue: Not the Big 10, but...
- Purple: Cowboys wear them.
OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!
- Yellow: NEW YORK YANKEES, INFORMALLY
- Green: TOUR DE FRANCE JERSEYS
- Blue: LOCATIONS OF BIG 12 SCHOOLS
- Purple: WHAT "BOOT" MIGHT MEAN
If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!
The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #635 are coming up next.
Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- NEW YORK YANKEES, INFORMALLY: BRONX BOMBERS, EVIL EMPIRE, PINSTRIPES, YANKS
- TOUR DE FRANCE JERSEYS: GREEN, POLKA DOT, WHITE, YELLOW
- LOCATIONS OF BIG 12 SCHOOLS: BOULDER, FORT WORTH, MANHATTAN, WACO
- WHAT "BOOT" MIGHT MEAN: CLEAT, EJECT, KICK, MISHANDLE
Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.
Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.
Related: Pizza Hut to Be Sold in Massive $2.7 Billion Deal—What It Could Mean for Your Next Slice
This 'Old Fashioned' Musical is Suddenly Climbing the Charts on Streaming
Roald Dahl's timeless stories continue to come to life in Hollywood.
Wes Anderson finally won Oscar gold for his 2023 adaptation of the author's short story, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar. That same year, a prequel to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was released, to both critical and commercial acclaim.
Starring Timothée Chalamet as the eponymous chocolatier and Hugh Grant as an Oompa Loompa, Wonka was a musical just like the previous film adaptations of Dahl's classic novel. These days, U.S. residents can watch it at home on HBO Max.
Over in the U.K., meanwhile, Wonka began streaming on Netflix earlier this week and is already climbing the charts — becoming the second most-watched film on the platform, Digital Spy reports.
The musical has been certified "fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes, which describes it as a "warmly old-fashioned" film that "puts a suitably sweet spin on the classic character while still leaving some room for the source material's darker undertones."
Famed critic Peter Travers wrote in his ABC News review that Grant, 65, "is singlehandedly worth the price of admission," adding that Chalamet, 30, "is a pleasant surprise, finding the sweet nature of the young magician and chocolate maker."
Let it be known, however, that this daring spin-off take on young Willy Wonka isn't for everyone. Among the negative reviews that stood out was David Fear's for Rolling Stone, which proclaimed at the time that Chalamet "bites off more than he can chew in this dizzying musical."
The Marty Supreme actor made headlines earlier this month when his new ad campaign with Kalshi went live. Kalshi is a federally regulated prediction market, and according to The New York Times, it’s legal nationwide “because it’s classified as a financial trading platform, not a gambling service.” However, with some still viewing it as gambling, many commenters on Chalamet’s post condemned him for promoting the service.
View this post on InstagramThis Striking IKEA Floor Lamp Gives 'Just the Right Amount of Soft, Ambient Light'
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There are so many factors that impact the look and feel of a room, but one of the most important is lighting. Finding lamps that provide soft lighting helps you relax and makes your space feel calmer and more inviting. If you're looking for a new mood lamp to add to your space, this beautiful floor lamp from IKEA will do just the trick.
The ÖKENSAND Floor Lamp at IKEA helps to create the coziest ambiance in any space. Featuring a pretty pleated white lampshade supported by three solid beech legs, this sleek floor lamp feels both modern and vintage. The lampshade, constructed from 100 percent polyester, helps diffuse soft mood lighting throughout the room, helping you relax and unwind with ease.
ÖKENSAND Floor Lamp, Beech/White, $79.99 at IKEAIKEA
Shop It!When it comes to dimensions, this floor lamp measures 61 inches in height. It has a base diameter of 19 inches and a shade diameter of 14 inches. The cord length measures four feet and 11 inches.
Shoppers love this timeless floor lamp, giving it an average rating of 4.7 stars on IKEA.com. Fans of the floor lamp rate it highly for its appearance, ease of assembly, product quality, value for the money, energy efficiency and overall functionality.
"Love it!" exclaimed one happy IKEA customer in a five-star review on IKEA.com. "Just the right amount of soft, ambient light."
Several reviewers did mention the importance of buying the right bulbs at IKEA for the best results.
"Lights are expensive. This one is a bargain. It's simple to put together and it's well made. My wife is picky, but she loves it. My only minor complaint is that you need to order the bulbs from IKEA. You can probably get them at a local store, but save yourself the trouble and order at least four bulbs (you need three, but they come in packages of two) along with the light. Frankly, they should include 3 bulbs and add the cost to the light, so you're ready to go. Still, five stars," said one fan in a five-star review on IKEA.com.
You can find this gorgeous floor lamp online on IKEA.com or in select IKEA stores. It retails for $79.99.
Related: IKEA Is Selling New $15 Storage Baskets That Make Clutter Look Cute
Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Saturday, June 20, 2026
Today's NYT Strands puzzle is a cinch to solve whether you're a sports fan or you really love concerts. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.
With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.
We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #839 on Saturday, June 20.
How to Play StrandsThe New York Times
According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:
Find theme words to fill the board.
- Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
- Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
- Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.
Find the “spangram.”
- The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
- The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
- An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.
Need a hint?
- Find non-theme words to get hints.
- For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
- Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.
A hint for today's Strands game: The only garden where flowers don't grow.
What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?Warning: Spoilers ahead!
In today's puzzle, there are six theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:
- RA
- JU
- CH
- CO
- MA
- SE
- PL
- GA (SPANGRAM)
Today's Spangram is a mix of horizontal and vertical.
NYT Strands Spangram Answer for June 20Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Saturday, June 20, 2026, isGARDENPARTY
What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Saturday, June 20?- RAFTERS
- JUMBOTRON
- CHANT
- COURTSIDE
- MARQUEE
- SEAWEED
- PLANKTON
- SPANGRAM: GARDENPARTY
1987 Rock Classic, Written in a Single Day, Became a Timeless Road Trip Anthem, Despite Never Reaching No. 1
Bon Jovi’s massively successful No. 1 third studio album, 1986’s Slippery When Wet, spawned three top 10 hits, including “You Give Love a Bad Name,” “Livin’ on a Prayer,” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.”
The latter of those three songs — “Wanted Dead or Alive” — didn’t top the charts, but it did go on to become one of the band’s signature cross-generational hits, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Written by lead singer Jon Bon Jovi and guitarist Richie Sambora, and released on March 2, 1987, “Wanted Dead or Alive,” according to American Songwriter, which sourced a 2009 interview with Inside The Actor’s Studio, came to fruition inside the basement of Sambora’s mother’s house.
With the pair of musicians putting their heads together, the song was written in less than a day, eventually helping Bon Jovi become the first glam metal band to achieve three top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 from a single album.
Sonically, “Wanted Dead or Alive” blends together arena-ready rock with a universal feeling of loneliness, and features an instantly recognizable guitar opening before Bon Jovi lends his distinctive rocker vocals to the lyrics. At its core, “Wanted Dead or Alive” is less about the western-cowboy theme that the title might suggest and more about the life of a traveling musician.
Opening up about what inspired the track on Sirius XM's Bon Jovi Radio, during a 2021 hour-long roundtable with Pink, Bon Jovi shared that the song is about “Life on the road.”
“At that point, we were well into our second album. We had toured the world both on the first and the second record,” he continued. “You got from dreaming about what it’s like on the road to actually doing it for a living. Then, as an opening act, you’re a nomad, and under the house rules of every and anyone else you’re opening for, so you learned how to be a performer and how to travel. That’s what the road was all about.”
In the years following the release of “Wanted Dead or Alive,” Bon Jovi outdid themselves with their next project, New Jersey, which found them reaching a new milestone. They became the first glam metal act to land five Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 hits from one album.
Related: 1987 Power Ballad, an Overlooked Prom Anthem, Remains a Nostalgic Classic 39 Years Later
Today’s Wordle Hint, Answers for #1827 on Saturday, June 20, 2026
You'll solve today's NYT Wordle in record time if you grew up watching Degrassi. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. And, of course, I can’t forget about Wordle, too! If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1827 ahead.
Let's start with a few hints.
There are two vowels in today's five-letter word.
What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.
Are there any double letters?There are no double letters in today's Wordle.
Can you give another hint about today's WordleA hint for today's Wordle is: October's Very Own.
OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.
SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.
The New York Times
Today's Wordle Answer for #1827 on Saturday, June 20, 2026.Today's Wordle answer on Saturday, June 20, 2026, is DRAKE.
-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.
Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn't Used Yet (Updated Daily)
’90s Rock Band Announces Special Guests for 2026 Tour
Danzig, the heavy metal band fronted by iconic vocalist Glenn Danzig, dropped an exciting announcement ahead of its highly anticipated U.S. headline tour.
Scheduled to kick off in September, the band, composed of lead guitarist Tommy Victor, bassist Steve Zing, drummer Karl Rosqvist and, of course, 71-year-old frontman Glenn Danzig, revealed the supporting acts joining the run.
In an Instagram update, the band announced that Los Angeles-based duo Twin Temple, as well as the all-female heavy metal and power metal band Burning Witches and the rising atmospheric orchestral metal outfit ANA, will join the tour as special guests.
Following the announcement, fans can purchase tickets during the general sale beginning June 22, with the pre-sale kicking off on June 19.
Glenn Danzig performs in concert during the Housecore Horror Film & Music Festival at Emo's on October 26, 2014 in Austin, Texas.Danzig’s tour will have a seven-date run across cities in Texas, followed by Louisiana, Kentucky and Tennessee, before concluding in California.
As for the finale, the band revealed the “insane stacked line-up” featuring the three previously announced special guests, with the cult sludge metal band Acid Bath joining the celebration for an unforgettable closing night.
View this post on Instagram Danzig 2026 Headline Tour Schedule:Sept. 11 – San Antonio, TX | Boeing Center at Tech Port
Sept. 12 – Houston, TX | Bayou Music Center
Sept. 14 – New Orleans, LA | The Fillmore
Sept. 17 – Louisville, KY | Louder Than Life Festival
Sept. 18 – Nashville, TN | The Pinnacle
Sept. 20 – Grand Prairie, TX | Texas Trust CU Theatre
Sept. 26 – Anaheim, CA | Honda Center
The much-awaited headline tour will be Danzig’s very first major live appearances of the year.
Moreover, the frontman previously revealed that he had significantly scaled back his touring schedule, reducing it from a months-long run to just a small number of shows.
He also explained why he no longer refers to these appearances as a tour.
“Right now, pretty much what I’ve said is kind of what I’m doing,” he told 96.7 KCAL-FM host Radioactive MikeZ, as reported by Consequence. “I don’t really tour anymore. I’ll do a string of shows, which I don’t consider a tour. If it’s, like, you know, six to 10 shows, I don’t really consider that a tour. When I used to go out on tour, we would go out for three or four months at a time, come home for a couple of weeks or a month and then go back out again for another couple of months. That’s touring, where you’re hitting every city in the United States or in Germany or Europe or Scandinavia, wherever you’re going. That’s a tour. I mean, this is just a small string of shows here on the West Coast.”
While the vocalist has stepped away from extensive touring, Danzig’s continued willingness to perform select shows ensures that fans still have opportunities to witness the band on stage.
Related: ’80s Rocker Announces Solo Album for the First Time in 10 Years
Amazon's 'Stunning' $87 Acacia Wood Table Is the 'Perfect Size for a Small Patio'
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You don’t have to redo your whole patio to make it feel more welcoming, and the Christopher Knight Home Carlisle Outdoor Acacia Wood Coffee Table proves it. Right now, you can snag this gorgeous patio table for just $86, down from $152, on Amazon. It comes in three colors, including sandblast, black, and brown, though the sandblast option is the best deal at 43% off.
The table features a slatted top and is made with acacia wood and a powder-coated metal frame, offering the perfect mix of warmth, contrast, and rustic charm. It measures 45.8 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 18 inches high, so there’s room for a tray, small plates, a stack of coffee table books, or drinks. It weighs just under 29 pounds and has a 300-pound weight recommendation.
Christopher Knight Home Carlisle Outdoor Acacia Wood Coffee Table, $86 (was $152) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe perfect patio table can pull an entire space together, whether you need somewhere to set down your iced coffee in the morning or drinks when friends come over. The wood top offers a warmer farmhouse look, while the darker legs add a touch of contrasting modernism. It would also pair especially well with wicker chairs, a cushioned outdoor sofa, or a porch bench.
One shopper said it “looks like it cost a lot more than it did,” while another called it “very sturdy” and “the perfect size for a small patio.” A different reviewer described it as “beautiful” and “so easy to put together,” writing, “It’s a stunning addition to my outdoor space.”
The table’s sleek slatted top design is perfect for patios and decks where crumbs, dust, and occasional splashes are bound to happen, and its classic rectangular shape gives you plenty of room without taking up the entire patio. Its neutral colors also help it pair easily with other outdoor furniture you already have or new pieces you’re adding to your space.
Shop More Deals- Oasbira 5-Piece Aluminum Patio Set, $600 (was $850) at Amazon
- Devoko 4-Piece Conversation Patio Set, $94 (was $130) at Amazon
- Dumos 3-Piece Wicker Patio Bistro Set, $80 (was $100) at Amazon
Related: Walmart’s ‘Sturdy’ $157 Patio Set Is ‘Great for a Smaller Space’ and Comes In 8 Colors
With patio season in full swing, now’s a great time to add a little more warmth and practicality to your outdoor setup, especially since the acacia wood top and metal frame can blend with farmhouse, rustic, or modern furniture. Be sure to add the Christopher Knight Home Carlisle Outdoor Acacia Wood Coffee Table to your cart while it’s still marked down this low on Amazon.
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Oreo's Latest Launch Puts a Sweet Twist on a Classic Campfire Favorite
Summer is the season of sticky fingers and nostalgic desserts. Oreo understood the assignment this year. The cookie brand has teased plenty of campfire-inspired flavors over the years, but its latest release might be the most over-the-top yet.
Oreo Takes S'mores to the Next Level View this post on InstagramOreo's new cookie is the OREOiD Campfire S'more, and it's a seriously decadent spin on the brand's beloved seasonal flavor. Unlike the regular S'mOREO cookies, this version features fudge-covered Oreo Double Stuf cookies topped with crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows.
In other words, Oreo took an already popular flavor and dialed everything up a notch.
Food blogger @markie_devo shared the news with followers:
The new cookie captures the taste of a campfire dessert without requiring a fire pit or even a trip outside. It's sweet, chocolatey and packed with texture thanks to the crunchy graham topping and chewy marshmallow bits.
Oreo fans seem especially excited because the classic S'mOREO flavor already has a loyal following. The seasonal cookie regularly returns during the warmer months and has earned near-icon status among snack lovers. This new cookie feels like a more indulgent version designed for people who always wished the original had even more chocolate.
Related: Fans Say Publix Bakery's Take on This Viral Trend Is Their 'New Obsession'
Here's How to Get the New Oreo CookieRight now, the Fudge-Covered Campfire S'mOREO is available for pre-order online through Oreo for $24.99 for a 12-count package. The company hasn't announced when or if the cookies will arrive in stores, so online is currently the only guaranteed way to snag them.
If you do manage to get your hands on a box, fans already have a recommendation: pop the cookies in the fridge before eating them. The cool temperature makes the fudge coating firmer and gives the marshmallow and chocolate filling an even richer texture. Some people even think they taste better chilled.
Of course, part of the fun of a limited-edition Oreo release is the excitement of trying something new before it's gone. And with layers of chocolate, marshmallow, graham and fudge all packed into one bite, this new cookie seems poised to become one of the brand's most talked-about seasonal launches.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Oreo's s'mores flavors or simply love a sweet summer treat, this new cookie looks like it's worth adding to your must-try list.
Related: Trader Joe's Shoppers Are Calling This New Tropical Dessert 'Addictive'
Sam's Club Is Selling the Daintiest $13 Welcome Mat That Brings Vintage Americana to Your Front Porch
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
No matter what your living situation looks like, your front porch is making an introduction before you ever open the door. Maybe it's a sprawling wraparound porch with rocking chairs and hanging baskets. Or it could be a tiny concrete rectangle barely big enough for a welcome mat. Of course your version of a front porch could also be the few feet of hallway outside your apartment door. Either way, it's the first thing guests see, and first impressions are a real thing.
Think of it as the opening line to your home's story. The plants you choose, the seasonal decor you put out and even the doormat at your feet all offer little clues about your personality. Do you lean classic and timeless? Are you the neighbor who wants everyone to smile before they even ring the bell? The answers can be reflected in your welcome mat.
Member's Mark Americana Welcome Coir Doormat - 23" x 35", $12.97 at Sam's Club Member's Mark Americana Welcome Coir DoormatSam's Club
Shop It!The beauty of a well-styled entryway is that it doesn't require a lot of space or money. A few thoughtful touches can make even the smallest entrance feel warm and welcoming, like this Member's Mark Americana Welcome Coir Doormat. It's perfect if you're looking to add a little patriotic personality to your front door.
Made from natural coir fibers, it has that classic doormat look and texture that feels right at home on a porch, stoop or entryway. The red, white and blue design is printed with fade-resistant paints, so it should keep looking fresh through plenty of summer gatherings and holiday celebrations. A vinyl backing with an anti-skid design helps keep it from sliding around every time someone comes through the door.
For decorating purposes, a 23-inch-by-35-inch mat tends to look more intentional than smaller mats that can sometimes feel undersized or get lost in the space. It's also a great size for layering over a larger patterned outdoor rug.
Overall, Sam's Club shoppers are really pleased with the quality of the mat.
"I am very happy with the Member's Mark Americana Welcome Coir Doormat," says a customer in their review. "The patriotic design is attractive and adds a warm, welcoming touch to my front porch. The coir material is durable and does an excellent job of trapping dirt and debris before it gets tracked into the house. It feels sturdy, stays in place well, and has held up nicely through different weather conditions."
Snap it up for all of the summer holidays before it leaves Sam's Club for the season.
Chart-Topping Country Stars Sued Over Nashville Business Venture
Country music superstarsJason Aldean andLuke Bryan— with former MLB first baseman Adam LaRoche and Outlaws LLC (restaurant leasing company) — are being sued over the closing of their E3 Chophouse restaurant in Nashville's Hillsboro Village neighborhood, according to Nashville Business Journal. The three are celebrity investors in the steakhouse chain, whose original location is located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
The lawsuit alleges the owners failed to pay rent and violated their lease when the restaurant closed in February of this year. The lawsuit seeks damages not limited to outstanding rent including past due rent and rent due through the term of lease (which ends in August 2029).
E3 Chophouse opened in Nashville back in 2019, and the restaurant was located in an upscale Nashville neighborhood with Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities nearby. The three-story restaurant spanned 13,000 square feet in size and cost $4 million to build. The minimum rent for the space was almost $25,000 a month for the first five years, with a rent increase for the second half of the 10-year lease term. Annual sales for the restaurant were estimated to be close to $4 million.
According to the June 12 complaint, the suit claims E3 Chophouse failed to pay rent for January and February of 2026, nor did they reopen the restaurant or surrender the property after notices of default and eventually a notice of termination of lease were sent. Additional legal actions followed with a default judgement on April 29 against Outlaws LLC in favor of GBT in the amount of $1.427 million in damages. E3's legal team filed a notice of appeal on May 1.
Related: Jason Aldean Net Worth
Since then, the premises for the Nashville have been surrendered and the keys returned.
Parade has reached out to E3 Chophouse and GBT Realty for comment.
Jason Aldean is a country-music singer who is best known for songs like "Dirt Road Anthem," "My Kind of Party," and "The Truth." He has been nominated for a variety of awards including Grammys, CMAs, and CMTs and has won a number of awards including Billboard Awards, CMT, and ACM awards.
Luke Bryan is a country-music singer, songwriter and TV personality who has been named "Entertainer of the Year" five times both at the Academy of Country of Music and Country Music Association. His hit songs include "Country Girl," "Play it Again," and "Love You, Miss You, Mean It".
Adam LaRoche is a former MLB infielder. He spent 12 years as a first baseman for the Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, Boston Red Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, Washington Nationals and Chicago White Sox.
Next, all about Luke Bryan's wife.
NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Today, Saturday, June 20, 2026
Today's NYT Mini Crossword puzzle require a little extra brain power. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!
Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.
So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, June 20, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, June 20, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: The "I" of TGIF — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
4 Across: "Psych!" —HINT: Ends with the letter "T"
5 Across: Baby goat — HINT: Starts with the letter "K"
8 Across: Batmanvillain played by Aaron Eckhart in "The Dark Knight" — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"
10 Across: Repressive governments — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"
11 Across: Folding art — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"
12 Across: Opposite direction of NNW — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"
13 Across: Streaming issue caused by slow wi-fi — HINT: Starts with the letter "L"
14 Across: Raggedy ___ (doll) — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Icebreakers, e.g. — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"
2 Down: "The Two ___" (second installment of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy) — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"
3 Down: Cigar, informally — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"
5 Down: Presidential candidate Harris— HINT: Ends with the letter "A"
6 Down: 2026 #1 album for Drake — HINT: Starts with the letter "I"
7 Down: Word after "interior" or "intelligent" — HINT: Starts with the letter "D"
9 Down: Kind of tree that the Buddha is said to have meditated under — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"
Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: The "I" of TGIF — ITS
4 Across: "Psych!" —NOT
5 Across: Baby goat — KID
8 Across: Batman villain played by Aaron Eckhart in "The Dark Knight" — TWOFACE
10 Across: Repressive governments — REGIME
11 Across: Folding art — ORAGAMI
12 Across: Opposite direction of NNW — SSE
13 Across: Streaming issue caused by slow wi-fi — LAG
14 Across: Raggedy ___ (doll) — ANN
1 Down: Icebreakers, e.g. — INTROS
2 Down: "The Two ___" (second installment of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy) — TOWERS
3 Down: Cigar, informally — STOOGIE
5 Down: Presidential candidate Harris— KAMALA
6 Down: 2026 #1 album for Drake — ICEMAN
7 Down: Word after "interior" or "intelligent" — DESIGN
9 Down: Kind of tree that the Buddha is said to have meditated under — FIG
Related: The Best Starbucks Ordering Hack for Cheaper Drinks, According to Baristas
Founding Member of ’80s Rock Band Announces Update on Supergroup
T3RMINAL, the supergroup featuring current and former members from Saliva, Staind, Tesla and W.A.S.P., announced a glimpse into the band’s next chapter with an exciting update.
The newly formed group, composed of Josey Scott, Brian Wheat, Tommy Skeoch, Chris Holmes and Sal Giancarelli, is slated to release a series of new music projects for fans.
In an interview with Cassius Morris on his YouTube channel, T3RMINAL frontman Josey Scott credited one member as the driving force behind the band.
"Man, I gotta give credit to Brian Wheat from TESLA,” he said as transcribed by Blabbermouth adding, “He was definitely the author of all this.”
What started as a friendship on festival circuits grew into a genuine bond that has grown stronger over more than 20 years, eventually leading them to create a musical project with an identity distinct from their former bands.
Scott revealed that he immediately signed on after learning about the star-studded lineup that would eventually make up T3RMINAL.
Supergroup vocalist Josey Scott of T3RMINAL performs on stage.Markus Cuff/Corbis via Getty Images
Moreover, he spoke about working on the lyrics and demos with the band, which has now amassed 18 songs for its upcoming album.
“And so he sent me, I think, six songs, and I started to kind of write to those songs and demo some stuff up. Then he flew me out to his house in upstate New York, and we just started recording. And, man, like that, before you knew it, I had written nine songs. He had nine songs in all, and we have 18 songs already. We have enough songs recorded that we still gotta put the finishing touches on, but we have enough material recorded right now to release an album. And that just happened just like that. It’s been really fluid and really cool with those guys. We really connected."
Although everything is currently a work in progress and still needs final touches, T3RMINAL, formed in September 2025, is expected to release its debut album late this year or early 2027.
"We look forward to presenting you with our new brand of music,” bassist and founding member of the '80s band Tesla, Brian Wheat said.
As for his current band, he reassured the public about his status, emphasizing that he is “not leaving TESLA” but instead is just “starting another new band” with an old friend.
Related: ’80s Rocker Announces Solo Album for the First Time in 10 Years