The article discusses how the recent recession and recovery have been different from past economic cycles in the U.S. It focuses on changes in employment and unemployment patterns, especially in New England. The recovery has been slow, with more white-collar workers losing jobs and fewer being temporarily laid off. In New England, there have been significant declines in dual job-holding and an increase in self-employment. The key question is whether these changes in the job market will continue as the recovery progresses.