The Washingtonian's Harry Jaffe writes on the runaway success of former WaPo Style editor Gene Robinson's op-ed column. Robinson has developed a devoted following in the five-month run of his column, and 25 other papers are syndicating it. Jaffe wonders aloud what could be the secret of his success: "Robinson has no particular portfolio as a columnist other than his deep and wide reporting career."

Actually, there's no great secret here: As Style editor, Robinson made Tina Brown a weekly fixture in the Post. Next to that sort of competition, you have to try not to make an impression. Also? Once you pull a stunt like that, all your fellow editors will quake in deferential fear over whatever you might do next.--HOLLY MARTINS

Fresh Voice on Washington Post Editorial Page [Washingtonian]