A Man Should Know: How to Host
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the art of hospitality, from hosting dinners and choosing venues to creating meaningful experiences that make guests feel welcome.
Essays
The Free Press
A Man Should Know: How to Propose
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the art of proposing, arguing that the most important part of a marriage proposal is not the spectacle but...
A Man Should Know: How to Travel
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman offers practical travel advice, from packing and airport etiquette to the more important question of when it is better to...
A Man Should Know: How to Say Thank You
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the art of expressing gratitude, arguing that a thoughtful thank-you note can deepen relationships and become a lasting reminder...
A Man Should Know: How to Form an Opinion
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman reflects on the importance of intellectual curiosity, arguing that the best opinions are formed by understanding multiple perspectives and asking...
A Man Should Know: How to Own a Watch
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the value of owning a watch, arguing that meaningful possessions are shaped not by their price but by the...
A Man Should Know: How to Be a Friend
In this installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the nature of male friendship, arguing that strong bonds are built through shared experiences, consistency, and showing up for...
A Man Should Know: How to Introduce Himself
In the first installment of A Man Should Know, Elliot Ackerman explores the overlooked skill of introducing yourself, arguing that meaningful relationships, opportunities, and understanding often begin with a handshake...
How Being an Intelligence Officer Made Me a Better Writer
Elliot Ackerman reflects on intelligence work, fiction, special operations, and the experiences that shaped his novel Sheepdogs.