"It's one of the interesting paradoxes of our times that someone can be referred to in all apparent earnestness as 'fiercely private' while also publicizing her private pain in a mass-circulation periodical."

Slate's Laura Kipnis notes that about Elin's People Magazine exclusive (confession: I felt like Michael Keaton buying tampons in Mr. Mom, but yes I bought the issue...and learned nothing, though I did enjoy the less than subtle jab sent the way of Steiny.)

But Kipnis' bigger point is one Tiger might want to contemplate now that he's on the market again.

What exactly is the allure of sex with celebs, especially married ones who want to keep your existence a secret though maybe they'll text you next time they're back in town if they can get away? No doubt there's attraction: Celebrities are frequently charismatic; they have an aura; sometimes (though not always) they're good-looking. No doubt there's the feeling of "a connection," a "special spark." But the main benefit, as anyone with experience of such things knows, is that it confers specialness on the lucky recipient of the celeb's attention: "He/she could choose anyone, and he/she chose me."

The problem is that anyone who craves the proximity of celebrity limelight and feels confirmed by hit-or-miss attentions is also likely to be someone afflicted by greater than usual quantities of insecurity and self-doubt.