If you've got some extra time today, I recommend taking a read through this New York Times Magazine story about Mad Men [1] (it's also out in today's edition of the print magazine, if reading thousands of words online isn't your cup o' chai). It's a fascinating look at the show and its creator, Matthew Weiner. Among the best tidbits:

• Weiner wrote the pilot of Mad Men [2] while working on the show Becker; it got him a job on The Sopranos but his series pitch was rejected by both HBO and Showtime.
• At least one prominent ad man of the '60s is annoyed by the show, which he think plays down the work he did in favor of "three-martini lunches" and ogling women.
• If someone's tie is tied wrong on the show, that's probably because the actor tied it himself. Weiner thinks a slightly imperfect look enhances the show's authenticity.
• The show has only made two blunders that Weiner regrets . . . but you should go read the story to find out what they are!

If you're just getting into Mad Men, beware of some spoilers in the story —but if you love the show, it really is a great read. Enjoy, and then come back here to discuss!

Source [3]