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Sunday Morning Book Thread - 09-15-2024 ["Perfessor" Squirrel]
(HT: Dash my lace wigs!)
PIC NOTE
This week we have a picture suitable for the Sunday Morning Book Thread, the Pet Thread, the First World Problems Thread, and the Haitian Food Thread. Normally I would not post another picture of Allie (or any of my cats) so soon after the previous one, but I just couldn't resist. This is related to the book I was reading this past week (see below). I had just finished The Long Mars and had started the book you see above. Allie decided that she was going to be my new book critic--or maybe censor--and plopped herself down right on top of my book. I didn't have the heart to move her, so I let her sit there as long as she wanted. FEATURED MORON REVIEW Moron Skip sent me the following review:
Lenin - A New Biography was written by Dimitri Volkogonov who was an avowed Stalinist until disillusionment of the Soviet Union. E-book, 683 pages written 1994. At the Ill Congress of Communist Youth in 1919 Lenin said that everything is moral that promotes the victory of Communism. Lenin defined "It is the struggle of one part of the people against another, the mass of the rightless, oppressed and toiling against the privileged, oppressing and parasitic, it is the struggle of the workers or proletarians against the owners or the bourgeoisie." Like many a revolutionary Lenin was well off yet never worked at any job; he lived off donations of wealthy friends and later criminal operations. He worked to bring down the Czar and Russia with assistance from Germany fully assuming Germany would fall as well to the Bolsheviks. Right away after gaining control of the government, Lenin started murdering opponents, the first state security--the Cheka--was started in December 1917 and was given extra-judicial status from Lenin. Tens of thousands were shot in their cellar without trial. This book covers his rise, to death and legacy. Very few people in history have had influence of a global order: a few conquerors, some great philosophers and religious figures. Among them, undoubtedly, Lenin and Trotsky have a place. I do recommend this book if you want to learn how the Russians fell into the Bolsheviks' grasp.
The author has said a Stalinist thought this should put a end of the Bolsheviks but he didn't get to see our Cultural Marxists were ready to have another go at it.
(HT: Malcolm Tent)
Ace has been using this word a lot recently. I suppose it can describe people who have achieved a certain amount of fame or celebrity status but don't quite know how it happened or how to deal with it.
parvenu - n. - one that has recently or suddenly risen to an unaccustomed position of wealth or power and has not yet gained the prestige, dignity, or manner associated with it
As you can tell from the word, it is related to the word ameliorate, which refers to making things better, or at least less worse. I didn't know there was a philosophical belief around the root word.
meliorism - n. - belief that the world tends to improve and that humans can aid its betterment.
An example is, "She broke his car and his heart." Here, the word "broke" is modifying both "car" and "heart" but doing so in two different ways, one physical and one emotional. MORON RECOMMENDATIONS
zeugma - n. - literary term for using one word to modify two other words, in two different ways.
Comment: This could be an entertaining read...I never watched Survivor or any of its reality show clones, so I don't know just how remote they went for each season of the show. But if you are in the middle of nowhere, there are all sorts of ways that Mother Nature can ruin your day. Did any of those shows do a series in an arctic or sub-arctic region?
This week's trash read: In Ruth Ware's One Perfect Couple, a post-doc research scientist whose contract hasn't been renewed is cajoled by her aspiring actor boyfriend to participate in a new reality show. They're whisked off to a tiny desert island in the Indian Ocean, where they and other couples are supposed to frolic and fight for the cameras. But a massive storm tears through the region and they are left with no power, no comms, and dwindling supplies. It turns into Lord if the Flies for pretty people. Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 08, 2024 09:38 AM (kpS4V)
Comment: Parasites are weird, creepy organisms. They depend on their host to survive, even as they slowly kill the host (or at least greatly inconvenience them). I read a book several years ago that described a successful attempt at eliminating the dreaded Guinea worm, a particularly nasty parasite that invades the body and causes horrific deformities in the host. The best way to stop it is to drink properly filtered water, so there was significant progress in implementing basic water filtering strategies in areas of Africa where the Guinea worm thrives and the people are much better off as a result.
Last week's surprise find: Parasite Rex by Carl Zimmer. A detailed book all about parasites. Very thorough on organism types from tiny on up, behaviors, strategies and also a few movie examples. I did not expect to become as engaged as I did with this book. (Pt 2 to follow) Posted by: InspiredHistoryMike at September 08, 2024 09:55 AM (L1omb)
Comment: I read this book earlier this year due in no small part to Moron recommendations. It really is an excellent deconstruction of the global warming movement. Crichton provides a lot of details about what is really happening based on the government's own facts and figures. Then he uses an eco-terrorism subplot to illustrate the fanatical devotion the cultists of global warming have towards killing vast swathes of mankind for an imaginary crisis. More Moron-recommended reading material can be found HERE! (1000+ Moron-recommended books!)
Reading a Chrichton book. State of Fear. He handles the global warming fear scam and the eco-terrorists well in the book. Nice read. Posted by: Cannibal Bob at September 08, 2024 11:48 AM (GTCVo)
Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Got some stuff around the house to read, but been too busy cleaning up the summer mess.
Back later.
Back later.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 09:00 AM (0eaVi)
2
I read the entire Generac manual cover to cover.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 09:01 AM (gbOdA)
3
Booken Morgen Horden!
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:03 AM (Ydd86)
4
Howdy, Perfessor, horde.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 09:04 AM (q3u5l)
5
Oh, by the way, I've started an epistolary novel and opened it up to the members of A Literary Horde to do a collaboration on it. Anyone else here is welcome to participate if they'd like.
Here's a link to the original post on ALH.
https://tinyurl.com/5n8vz4vk
Here's a link to the original post on ALH.
https://tinyurl.com/5n8vz4vk
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 09:04 AM (0eaVi)
6
Whew! Glad to be here. My phone service abruptly blocked AoS and a couple other of my favorite sites a few days ago, labeling them porn. Had to get my wife to add my name to the phone account. I don't know how all this shit works! But I'm here.
Wish I had more to write about, but I'm still reading Master of Kung Fu. Surely I'll finish this before the TxMoMe.
Wish I had more to write about, but I'm still reading Master of Kung Fu. Surely I'll finish this before the TxMoMe.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:05 AM (p/isN)
7
I am halfway through "The Overstory" and it's wearying. Got it from the Libby ebook library and it's due tomorrow and cannot be extended as someone's waiting. I'll be glad to see the loan expire.
Tree huggers.
Tree huggers.
Posted by: Mr Gaga at September 15, 2024 09:05 AM (BAkrB)
8
I see the pettzzzhave taken refuge in the book thread
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:05 AM (Ydd86)
9
Good morning fellow Book Threadists. I hope everyone had a great week of reading.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:06 AM (zudum)
10
The most common form of human parasite is known as a socialist. Even today, no one truly understands why they destroy the economy and people that host them.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:06 AM (BoRyq)
11
That cat is sitting on a huge book.
Posted by: dantesed at September 15, 2024 09:06 AM (Oy/m2)
12
Good morning again morons and thanks perfesser for the best squirrel pic evah!
Posted by: San Franpsycho at September 15, 2024 09:06 AM (RIvkX)
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:07 AM (/y8xj)
14
Good Sunday morning, horde!
What a week, huh? And I still managed to read something besides AOSHQ.
What a week, huh? And I still managed to read something besides AOSHQ.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 09:08 AM (OX9vb)
15
Not a whole ton of reading this week. Revisited Stephen King's "The Life of Chuck" from his collection IF IT BLEEDS. Nice story -- he's still got it, when he wants to use it without lecturing half the audience.
Started dipping into a volume of previously uncollected stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer, A LETTER TO MAMA, AND PREVIOUSLY UNCOLLECTED STORIES. Good stuff so far, as always with Singer.
Started dipping into a volume of previously uncollected stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer, A LETTER TO MAMA, AND PREVIOUSLY UNCOLLECTED STORIES. Good stuff so far, as always with Singer.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 09:08 AM (q3u5l)
16
good morning, Perfessor, Horde
Posted by: callsign claymore at September 15, 2024 09:10 AM (+XASd)
17
I read Supernova Era by Cixin Liu, trans. by Joel Marinsen. I found the book far-fetched, but interesting. A star, previously hidden and only eight light years from Earth, goes supernova and showers Earth with deadly radiation. Within a year everyone over thirteen will die. Parents apprentice their children and try to pass the knowledge needed to to keep the world running. The children's world goes through several stages including one with world war games conducted in Antarctica using real weapons an live ammunition. Not the author's best effort.
Posted by: Zoltan at September 15, 2024 09:11 AM (bcrtw)
18
Last week, I started the first volume of William Manchester's three-volume biography of Winston Churchill. Andrew Roberts' recent version is good, but I like Manchester for his description of the Victorian era in which Churchill grew up (and which he was very much a product of throughout his life).
One reason I started reading was in defiance of the recent trend in some quarters of the Right (looking at you, Tucker!) of tearing down Churchill and pretending he was no better than Hitler, because Dresden, or something. Even a cursory reading of the PM's life and character would show how dumb a take that is.
One reason I started reading was in defiance of the recent trend in some quarters of the Right (looking at you, Tucker!) of tearing down Churchill and pretending he was no better than Hitler, because Dresden, or something. Even a cursory reading of the PM's life and character would show how dumb a take that is.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:11 AM (lHPJf)
19
Book thread + cover pic = food for thought.
Posted by: Biden's Dog sniffs a whole lotta malarkey, at September 15, 2024 09:12 AM (I7Wj0)
20
Given the interest expressed here recently about the Russian revolution, and the uncoordinated leaders of the whites, may I present Freiherr Roman Nikolai Maxmillian von Ungern-Sternberg, one of the more unorthodox of the bunch. In his book, The Bloody White Baron, James Palmer delves into the sometimes obscure but often bloody history of this Russian nobleman who became the last Khan of Mongolia, and white commander in the eastern theater of the Russian revolution.
Ungern was a brave, perhaps foolhardy officer in the great war, but his temper got him in trouble, and Russia's war ended with him in Vladivostok. He was offered a command in independence minded Mongolia, and Ungern managed to take over their entire army, calling himself the god of war.
The baron was a notorious anti Semite, blaming the Jews for the revolution, and preferring to loot rather than buy food from possible Jews for his army. His reputation for cruelty was unmatched since Gengis Khan, whom he believed he was reincarnated from. After Mongolia, he determined to defeat the Bolsheviks from the east, but but his violence finally caused his troops to revolt, and the reds caught up to him and ended his campaign.
Ungern was a brave, perhaps foolhardy officer in the great war, but his temper got him in trouble, and Russia's war ended with him in Vladivostok. He was offered a command in independence minded Mongolia, and Ungern managed to take over their entire army, calling himself the god of war.
The baron was a notorious anti Semite, blaming the Jews for the revolution, and preferring to loot rather than buy food from possible Jews for his army. His reputation for cruelty was unmatched since Gengis Khan, whom he believed he was reincarnated from. After Mongolia, he determined to defeat the Bolsheviks from the east, but but his violence finally caused his troops to revolt, and the reds caught up to him and ended his campaign.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:12 AM (BoRyq)
21
2 I read the entire Generac manual cover to cover.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 09:01 AM (gbOdA)
Rhennigantx -- I saw your reply in the tech thread -- thanks! Unfortunately, I am not computer savvy and so I don't know what it means that a QR code is "just text". Does that mean it can't download trackers or malicious stuff or steal my data?
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 09:01 AM (gbOdA)
Rhennigantx -- I saw your reply in the tech thread -- thanks! Unfortunately, I am not computer savvy and so I don't know what it means that a QR code is "just text". Does that mean it can't download trackers or malicious stuff or steal my data?
Posted by: Emmie at September 15, 2024 09:13 AM (Sf2cq)
22
IIRC the original Survivor reality show was British, and was held in some place like Northern Scotland or the Orkneys
Didn't see it, but I did see some of what I assumed were takes from it.
I am not sure if they voted each other off the island, I think the contestants quit from being tired of the cold, wet, exhaustion and having to live rough.
Didn't see it, but I did see some of what I assumed were takes from it.
I am not sure if they voted each other off the island, I think the contestants quit from being tired of the cold, wet, exhaustion and having to live rough.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:14 AM (D7oie)
23
One reason I started reading was in defiance of the recent trend in some quarters of the Right (looking at you, Tucker!) of tearing down Churchill and pretending he was no better than Hitler, because Dresden, or something. Even a cursory reading of the PM's life and character would show how dumb a take that is.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:11 AM (lHPJf)
---
Yes, the notion that Churchill was a 'warmonger' or Hitler was forced into his territorial aggressions (which were in his stupid book ffs) really pisses me off.
We're in a particularly stupid place where people profoundly ignorant of history like to offer terrible "hot takes" devoid of facts or reason. Sadly, many of these people are on the right and supposedly ought to know better.
I also have the book and it's on deck for when I finish Ernst Junger's Storm of Steel.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:11 AM (lHPJf)
---
Yes, the notion that Churchill was a 'warmonger' or Hitler was forced into his territorial aggressions (which were in his stupid book ffs) really pisses me off.
We're in a particularly stupid place where people profoundly ignorant of history like to offer terrible "hot takes" devoid of facts or reason. Sadly, many of these people are on the right and supposedly ought to know better.
I also have the book and it's on deck for when I finish Ernst Junger's Storm of Steel.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:15 AM (llXky)
24
Yes it was based on mark burnetts roysl marine ttaining
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:16 AM (PXvVL)
25
Training
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:16 AM (PXvVL)
26
We're just good ol' boys doin' what Gandalf said.
Thou shall not pass isn't what it's cracked up to be.
Thou shall not pass isn't what it's cracked up to be.
Posted by: Constipated Moron at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (NlwkK)
27
Just learned that Trotsky was living in The Bronx before he got the call in 1917 to join Lenin back in the USSR.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (nFx0I)
28
I was reading an old 1992 novel by gordon thomas deadly perfume which was very prescirmt
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:18 AM (PXvVL)
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:18 AM (Ydd86)
30
IIRC the original Survivor reality show was British, and was held in some place like Northern Scotland or the Orkneys
Didn't see it, but I did see some of what I assumed were takes from it.
I am not sure if they voted each other off the island, I think the contestants quit from being tired of the cold, wet, exhaustion and having to live rough.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:14 AM (D7oie)
---
There is a wonderful sub-plot in the Sword of Honour trilogy regarding a British naturalist using conscientious objectors as test subjects for his naturalist theories, which included living off of seaweed and eels. World War Ii produced a lot of crackpots pushing wonder weapons and in its desperation, the British gov't gave a bunch of them money.
The way Waugh blends this nonsense with more serious themes is why I consider this perhaps my favorite book, displacing Lord of the Rings.
Didn't see it, but I did see some of what I assumed were takes from it.
I am not sure if they voted each other off the island, I think the contestants quit from being tired of the cold, wet, exhaustion and having to live rough.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:14 AM (D7oie)
---
There is a wonderful sub-plot in the Sword of Honour trilogy regarding a British naturalist using conscientious objectors as test subjects for his naturalist theories, which included living off of seaweed and eels. World War Ii produced a lot of crackpots pushing wonder weapons and in its desperation, the British gov't gave a bunch of them money.
The way Waugh blends this nonsense with more serious themes is why I consider this perhaps my favorite book, displacing Lord of the Rings.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:19 AM (llXky)
31
Perfesser, I am reading The Long War, and it is a struggle.
Earlier last week I finished Little Town on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls wilder. It is the third year on the claim on Silver Lake and the building in DeSmet. It is not as bad as the long winter, but Laura is growing up, and that is a trial. Mary is sent to an academy in Ohio for the blind which the family can barely afford, and at the end Laura gets a provisional teaching certificate to teach at a small settlers' school twelve miles from the family claim.
Earlier last week I finished Little Town on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls wilder. It is the third year on the claim on Silver Lake and the building in DeSmet. It is not as bad as the long winter, but Laura is growing up, and that is a trial. Mary is sent to an academy in Ohio for the blind which the family can barely afford, and at the end Laura gets a provisional teaching certificate to teach at a small settlers' school twelve miles from the family claim.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:19 AM (D7oie)
32
Haha, I just noticed the squirrel has Trump hair, too.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (OX9vb)
33
We're in a particularly stupid place where people profoundly ignorant of history like to offer terrible "hot takes" devoid of facts or reason. Sadly, many of these people are on the right and supposedly ought to know better.
I also have the book and it's on deck for when I finish Ernst Junger's Storm of Steel.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:15 AM (llXky)
Someone on Twitter described this as a Gnostic attitude, which I found curious. I think what they meant is that because of the well-earned distrust in our institutions, the idea has spread that there's hidden knowledge which "they" are keeping from us, and anyone who believes anything he learned growing up is a clueless sheep.
It would explain a lot.
I also have the book and it's on deck for when I finish Ernst Junger's Storm of Steel.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:15 AM (llXky)
Someone on Twitter described this as a Gnostic attitude, which I found curious. I think what they meant is that because of the well-earned distrust in our institutions, the idea has spread that there's hidden knowledge which "they" are keeping from us, and anyone who believes anything he learned growing up is a clueless sheep.
It would explain a lot.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (lHPJf)
34
Just learned that Trotsky was living in The Bronx before he got the call in 1917 to join Lenin back in the USSR.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (nFx0I)
---
I've seen a map of Edwardian Vienna that shows just how packed together historical figures were, living within blocks of one another before WW I. Crazy stuff.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (nFx0I)
---
I've seen a map of Edwardian Vienna that shows just how packed together historical figures were, living within blocks of one another before WW I. Crazy stuff.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (llXky)
35
Just learned that Trotsky was living in The Bronx before he got the call in 1917 to join Lenin back in the USSR.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus
And Trotsky was living in Mexico City in 1940 when the Bolsheviks gave him the axe. Well, icepick, actually.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus
And Trotsky was living in Mexico City in 1940 when the Bolsheviks gave him the axe. Well, icepick, actually.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:22 AM (BoRyq)
36
Book thread seems early.
Or I got up late.
Who knows? It's Sunday.
Anyway, watched the Dark Tower the other night. It was, as I feared, unable to do the first books justice.
And it had this weird thing of cutting to black like a commercial break and going to a whole different scene.
Now, I said the first books. Because I gave up at 6 (I think), the one where they fought off the killer robots who had been kidnapping twins, sending one back a retarded giant.
They were getting to be such a slog.
So I read the wiki and see the ending of the series was a weak-ass cop-out of Roland being trapped in a time loop. Or something.
The best comment on the series is: The first books had an editor who was able to control King. The later books, he was too big and was getting paid by the word.
Or I got up late.
Who knows? It's Sunday.
Anyway, watched the Dark Tower the other night. It was, as I feared, unable to do the first books justice.
And it had this weird thing of cutting to black like a commercial break and going to a whole different scene.
Now, I said the first books. Because I gave up at 6 (I think), the one where they fought off the killer robots who had been kidnapping twins, sending one back a retarded giant.
They were getting to be such a slog.
So I read the wiki and see the ending of the series was a weak-ass cop-out of Roland being trapped in a time loop. Or something.
The best comment on the series is: The first books had an editor who was able to control King. The later books, he was too big and was getting paid by the word.
Posted by: People's Hippo Voice at September 15, 2024 09:22 AM (ueTHL)
37
Restarting David Weber's Safehold series. Read it many years ago, but always enjoy re-reading good books.
-SLV
-SLV
Posted by: Shy Lurking Voter at September 15, 2024 09:23 AM (e/Osv)
38
"the notion that Churchill was a 'warmonger'"
I come from a staunch Irish Republican background. Churchill was the epitome of British colonial oppressor. But if you can't see that that's precisely what made him the man of the moment to save the West, you're blind.
I come from a staunch Irish Republican background. Churchill was the epitome of British colonial oppressor. But if you can't see that that's precisely what made him the man of the moment to save the West, you're blind.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (nFx0I)
39
Started dipping into a volume of previously uncollected stories by Isaac Bashevis Singer, A LETTER TO MAMA, AND PREVIOUSLY UNCOLLECTED STORIES. Good stuff so far, as always with Singer.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 09:08 AM (q3u5l)
Please tell me more about Isaac Bashevis Singer. The only reason I know of him as an author is because due to some editorial mistake he is referenced in the Library of Congress info blurb in a frontpiece as the author of a scence fiction novel by Michael Kurland, which was a mystery for me for a while.
I eventually figured out it was a pure bonehead compositional error.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 09:08 AM (q3u5l)
Please tell me more about Isaac Bashevis Singer. The only reason I know of him as an author is because due to some editorial mistake he is referenced in the Library of Congress info blurb in a frontpiece as the author of a scence fiction novel by Michael Kurland, which was a mystery for me for a while.
I eventually figured out it was a pure bonehead compositional error.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (D7oie)
40
I must confess to a secret shame: I am a fan of "cozy" books and series, mostly mysteries but not all. (Oddly, reading Count of Monte Cristo, which gets better and better, brought this to mind. Dumas' descriptions of locations and characters makes them feel familiar and draws in the reader.) Cozies do the same but in less horrific circumstances. They are usually fast paced, don't involve constant nastiness, have a pretty happy ending and usually have humor. They are a pleasant, relaxing time with a book.
Examples:
- Martha's Vineyard mysteries by Philip Craig. (He and his wife wrote a great cookbook as well.)
- Liturgical Mysteries by Schweizer
- Lumby Lines series by Gail Fraser
- Father brown stories
- Chet and Bernie series by Spencer Quinn
- Amelia Peabody books by Elizabeth Peters
There are others but those will give you an idea of what I mean.
Examples:
- Martha's Vineyard mysteries by Philip Craig. (He and his wife wrote a great cookbook as well.)
- Liturgical Mysteries by Schweizer
- Lumby Lines series by Gail Fraser
- Father brown stories
- Chet and Bernie series by Spencer Quinn
- Amelia Peabody books by Elizabeth Peters
There are others but those will give you an idea of what I mean.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (zudum)
41
The protagonist david morton a cambridge educated mossad agent is hunting khalid rasa an abu nidal type this was five years before we heard of bin laden in a world that is venomously against israel
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:25 AM (PXvVL)
42
I don't know what it means that a QR code is "just text". Does that mean it can't download trackers or malicious stuff or steal my data?
No. It's just a way of writing a URL (think website name but could be something else) in a way that your device can read with a camera. So it could be "www.maliciouswebsite.com" which after all is just text. It's on you to inspect the info before you click on it.
No. It's just a way of writing a URL (think website name but could be something else) in a way that your device can read with a camera. So it could be "www.maliciouswebsite.com" which after all is just text. It's on you to inspect the info before you click on it.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:25 AM (/y8xj)
43
I've seen a map of Edwardian Vienna that shows just how packed together historical figures were, living within blocks of one another before WW I. Crazy stuff.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Frederic Morton wrote Thunder at Twilight about Vienna in 1914. What an amazing conglomeration of people about to change the world for the worse. Hitler, Stalin, Freud, Trotsky, and others.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Frederic Morton wrote Thunder at Twilight about Vienna in 1914. What an amazing conglomeration of people about to change the world for the worse. Hitler, Stalin, Freud, Trotsky, and others.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (BoRyq)
44
the idea has spread that there's hidden knowledge which "they" are keeping from us
"It's not until a man starts lying to his children that he starts to wonder about some of the things his father told him."
"It's not until a man starts lying to his children that he starts to wonder about some of the things his father told him."
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (p/isN)
45
Someone on Twitter described this as a Gnostic attitude, which I found curious. I think what they meant is that because of the well-earned distrust in our institutions, the idea has spread that there's hidden knowledge which "they" are keeping from us, and anyone who believes anything he learned growing up is a clueless sheep.
It would explain a lot.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (lHPJf)
---
The conservative movement (such as it is) is riddled with heresies right now, I'm particularly annoyed by the recent discovery that Christianity carries with it a ban on national borders and laws about property, both of which are suddenly an affront to God. Apparently, when a foreign people crosses your border and helps themselves to your things, burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.
It would explain a lot.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (lHPJf)
---
The conservative movement (such as it is) is riddled with heresies right now, I'm particularly annoyed by the recent discovery that Christianity carries with it a ban on national borders and laws about property, both of which are suddenly an affront to God. Apparently, when a foreign people crosses your border and helps themselves to your things, burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
46
While bouncing back and forth between various comic book collections, I managed to finish reading "Mouse Guard: Winter 1152." Aka, Mouse Guard Volume 2. It features a medeval settlement of mice who have just suffered through a rebellion. In order to survive the winter, they have sent out packs of rangers to seek aid from nearby somewhat-aligned settlements. Our story focuses on particular pack of rangers, and, suffice it to say, their journey does not go smoothly.
Sadly, I did not enjoy the book the way I should have. I appreciated the concept, but just never connected with the characters. I blame the art. The characters are drawn a bit too....distantly? Or too 'realistically' maybe. There is no emotion in the faces of any of the characters. There's barely even a face. Eyes are just dots (which aren't even visible from all angles) and the noses and mouths barely rendered as well. The characters are just too hard to get a read on. The story would have been much easier to connect with had the artist gone full anthropomorphic (like the cartoon Robin Hood movie) or at least Disney'd up the characters (Like Ratatoie or Secret of NIMH). Alas....
Sadly, I did not enjoy the book the way I should have. I appreciated the concept, but just never connected with the characters. I blame the art. The characters are drawn a bit too....distantly? Or too 'realistically' maybe. There is no emotion in the faces of any of the characters. There's barely even a face. Eyes are just dots (which aren't even visible from all angles) and the noses and mouths barely rendered as well. The characters are just too hard to get a read on. The story would have been much easier to connect with had the artist gone full anthropomorphic (like the cartoon Robin Hood movie) or at least Disney'd up the characters (Like Ratatoie or Secret of NIMH). Alas....
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 09:27 AM (Lhaco)
47
(I did mention this over at Jimmy L.'s weblog) but I recently dicovered Dorothy B. Hughes, and have read through the Expendable Man (highly recommend) and The Cross Eyed Bear (twisted psycological thriller that is still giving me nightmares). I might try to finish Ride the Pink Horse, but I might have to give up for emotional reasons: Dorothy does a quite good job of investing you in the particular fears and emotional swings of the point-of-view character, or maybe I'm just particularly vulnerable to her style. In any case, despite how good of a story it is, going into a three day paranoid depression because you read a book doesn't seem like a good thing to me. Your mileage may vary.
Posted by: normal at September 15, 2024 09:27 AM (bg2DR)
48
Yes thats a misreading of christianity
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:27 AM (PXvVL)
49
Halfway through The Murderers of Katyn by
Vladimir Abarinov
Being insame time frame as The Prosecutor and the Prey Vyshilinsky and the 1930s Moscow Show Trials the same people Show up
Vladimir Abarinov
Being insame time frame as The Prosecutor and the Prey Vyshilinsky and the 1930s Moscow Show Trials the same people Show up
Posted by: Skip at September 15, 2024 09:29 AM (fwDg9)
50
The conservative movement (such as it is) is riddled with heresies right now, I'm particularly annoyed by the recent discovery that Christianity carries with it a ban on national borders and laws about property, both of which are suddenly an affront to God. Apparently, when a foreign people crosses your border and helps themselves to your things, burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
But, but, what about the Good Samaritan?!?!
-"Conservative" "Christians"
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
But, but, what about the Good Samaritan?!?!
-"Conservative" "Christians"
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:30 AM (lHPJf)
51
Some missionaries welcoe the invasion of europe because they think they will win more converts
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:30 AM (PXvVL)
52
In my bike-to-the-part outdoor reading, I finished reading yet another issue of the e-zine "Savage Realms." I've read through quite a few issues this summer. About one every two weeks, assuming the weather or other activities don't interrupt my normal routine. I wish I remember which issue I started the summer with so I could have kept a better count. Maybe next summer...
The good news is that I'm very far behind, so I have a big backlog to get through before running out of material. Although even if I did, there are always those Racontour Press anthologies that are getting a lot of good publicity on this thread...
The good news is that I'm very far behind, so I have a big backlog to get through before running out of material. Although even if I did, there are always those Racontour Press anthologies that are getting a lot of good publicity on this thread...
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 09:31 AM (Lhaco)
53
I must confess to a secret shame: I am a fan of "cozy" books and series, mostly mysteries but not all. (Oddly, reading Count of Monte Cristo, which gets better and better, brought this to mind. Dumas' descriptions of locations and characters makes them feel familiar and draws in the reader.) Cozies do the same but in less horrific circumstances. They are usually fast paced, don't involve constant nastiness, have a pretty happy ending and usually have humor. They are a pleasant, relaxing time with a book.
Examples:
- Martha's Vineyard mysteries by Philip Craig. (He and his wife wrote a great cookbook as well.)
- Liturgical Mysteries by Schweizer
- Lumby Lines series by Gail Fraser
- Father brown stories
- Chet and Bernie series by Spencer Quinn
- Amelia Peabody books by Elizabeth Peters
There are others but those will give you an idea of what I mean.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (zudum)
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There's no shame in that at all! We all have our "comfort" books. Since fall is here (more or less), I may do a post just on that subject because there's nothing quite like curling up in a warm chair with a warm kitty and a good book.
Examples:
- Martha's Vineyard mysteries by Philip Craig. (He and his wife wrote a great cookbook as well.)
- Liturgical Mysteries by Schweizer
- Lumby Lines series by Gail Fraser
- Father brown stories
- Chet and Bernie series by Spencer Quinn
- Amelia Peabody books by Elizabeth Peters
There are others but those will give you an idea of what I mean.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (zudum)
----
There's no shame in that at all! We all have our "comfort" books. Since fall is here (more or less), I may do a post just on that subject because there's nothing quite like curling up in a warm chair with a warm kitty and a good book.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 09:31 AM (zP09t)
54
My phone service abruptly blocked AoS and a couple other of my favorite sites a few days ago, labeling them porn. Had to get my wife to add my name to the phone account. I don't know how all this shit works! But I'm here.
Posted by: Weak Geek
I am getting privacy errors for several sites recently. Maybe our betters are figuring out how to block sites they don't like from phones.
Posted by: Weak Geek
I am getting privacy errors for several sites recently. Maybe our betters are figuring out how to block sites they don't like from phones.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:32 AM (BoRyq)
55
I come from a staunch Irish Republican background. Churchill was the epitome of British colonial oppressor. But if you can't see that that's precisely what made him the man of the moment to save the West, you're blind.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (nFx0I)
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If we're going to do hot takes, how about this: which was better for humanity, the British Raj or India and Pakistan glaring at each other with atomic weapons?
Decolonialization hasn't lived up to the hype.
Churchill was a warrior at heart, but like a true warrior (not the caricatures of them in politics today), he wanted to pick his fights carefully. His entire policy after World War I was to try to set conditions where such a conflict could not happen again.
To that end, he recognized Hitler was bad news, and also that firm opposition would result in his political defeat. It is not possible to dispute that French irresolution and British cowardice over the Rhineland encouraged Hitlerite aggressor, nor can one argue that Britain's decision condemn Mussolini over Ethiopia while doing nothing substantive to stop him was the worst posssible choice.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:24 AM (nFx0I)
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If we're going to do hot takes, how about this: which was better for humanity, the British Raj or India and Pakistan glaring at each other with atomic weapons?
Decolonialization hasn't lived up to the hype.
Churchill was a warrior at heart, but like a true warrior (not the caricatures of them in politics today), he wanted to pick his fights carefully. His entire policy after World War I was to try to set conditions where such a conflict could not happen again.
To that end, he recognized Hitler was bad news, and also that firm opposition would result in his political defeat. It is not possible to dispute that French irresolution and British cowardice over the Rhineland encouraged Hitlerite aggressor, nor can one argue that Britain's decision condemn Mussolini over Ethiopia while doing nothing substantive to stop him was the worst posssible choice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (llXky)
56
That LOTR Fellowship of tge Rednecks is awesome
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (Ydd86)
57
That LOTR Fellowship of tge Rednecks is awesome
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (Ydd86)
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There's a whole series of these for different IPs (e.g., Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, etc.).
I think the LOTR is the best one, though.
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (Ydd86)
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There's a whole series of these for different IPs (e.g., Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, etc.).
I think the LOTR is the best one, though.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 09:35 AM (zP09t)
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:35 AM (p/isN)
59
I seldom post here, but someone unknown to me yet gifted me with a literal boxful of Robert Ruark books accompanied by a note saying " you may enjoy these".
Years back I did read Something of Value and Uhuru, didn't realize he wrote a bunch of stuff, this has the reading covered for a bit, it seems, don't know just what is in there, it's a BIG box.
Years back I did read Something of Value and Uhuru, didn't realize he wrote a bunch of stuff, this has the reading covered for a bit, it seems, don't know just what is in there, it's a BIG box.
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at September 15, 2024 09:35 AM (hKoQL)
60
Someone on Twitter described this as a Gnostic attitude, which I found curious. I think what they meant is that because of the well-earned distrust in our institutions, the idea has spread that there's hidden knowledge which "they" are keeping from us, and anyone who believes anything he learned growing up is a clueless sheep. It would explain a lot.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (lHPJf)
It is a good thing to review history because history is what we base our current world on. I can show you some quite interesting differences between books written about WWI in the 20's and ones written recently, and truly all history is "revisionist" in that newer interpretations do revise it.
If I understand the new review of WWII, the argument is that the issues of that war justified the creation of the American Empire (their words} much like the Punic Wars created the Roman Empire, but if the understanding is wrong then the justification is off, and the concept of the need for an empire is flawed.
I am not convinced, though I like the controversy, since DEI Tranny LGBTBBQ and other things "must not be discussed" and I would not like to add WWII to the list.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (lHPJf)
It is a good thing to review history because history is what we base our current world on. I can show you some quite interesting differences between books written about WWI in the 20's and ones written recently, and truly all history is "revisionist" in that newer interpretations do revise it.
If I understand the new review of WWII, the argument is that the issues of that war justified the creation of the American Empire (their words} much like the Punic Wars created the Roman Empire, but if the understanding is wrong then the justification is off, and the concept of the need for an empire is flawed.
I am not convinced, though I like the controversy, since DEI Tranny LGBTBBQ and other things "must not be discussed" and I would not like to add WWII to the list.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:36 AM (D7oie)
61
Been listening to C J Box's Joe Picket series. I'm on book 12 of 25. It's all about a Wyoming game warden. Very masculine books. Lots of action. No DEI anywhere so far.
Posted by: lin-duh at September 15, 2024 09:37 AM (VCgbV)
62
Finished a reread of Fools Errant, the first book in the Archonate universe by Matt Hughes.
Great fun, and a good introduction to the far future. Some liken him to Vance, but I like Hughes storytelling better.
Great fun, and a good introduction to the far future. Some liken him to Vance, but I like Hughes storytelling better.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 09:38 AM (u82oZ)
63
Morning, Book Folken! This week I finished Gerald Kersh's 1953 The Secret Masters, a spy thriller that is more Somerset Maugham-style than it is Ian Fleming; and his Prelude to a Certain Midnight, a crime tale about a child murderer set in the London of the 1920s. Be aware that the crime element does not come into it right away. But the characters he draws are all fascinating. And he does keep the identity of the murderer hidden until late in the story.
From the library this week, I've grabbed Something of Value, Robert Ruark's 1955 story of the Mau Mau Emergency in Kenya; a John D. MacDonald I don't know, Barrier Island, possibly his last novel; and a non-fiction work by JDM, No Deadly Drug, about the murder trial in 1966 of one Dr. Coppolino. Plus a collection of SF short stories, '50s and '60s, by Katherine Maclean.
From the library this week, I've grabbed Something of Value, Robert Ruark's 1955 story of the Mau Mau Emergency in Kenya; a John D. MacDonald I don't know, Barrier Island, possibly his last novel; and a non-fiction work by JDM, No Deadly Drug, about the murder trial in 1966 of one Dr. Coppolino. Plus a collection of SF short stories, '50s and '60s, by Katherine Maclean.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 09:40 AM (omVj0)
64
No. It's just a way of writing a URL (think website name but could be something else) in a way that your device can read with a camera. So it could be "www.maliciouswebsite.com" which after all is just text. It's on you to inspect the info before you click on it.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:25 AM (/y8xj)
FWIW you can encode text as a QR code too. I saw a blurb on it on Hackaday. I am not sure how useful it is, I suspect you could encode a user manual on the side of a product at need.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:25 AM (/y8xj)
FWIW you can encode text as a QR code too. I saw a blurb on it on Hackaday. I am not sure how useful it is, I suspect you could encode a user manual on the side of a product at need.
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:40 AM (D7oie)
65
27 Just learned that Trotsky was living in The Bronx before he got the call in 1917 to join Lenin back in the USSR.
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (nFx0I)
----
His ironic facial hair was proto-Hipster!
1522 Vyse Avenue, right near me.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 09:17 AM (nFx0I)
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His ironic facial hair was proto-Hipster!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:40 AM (kpS4V)
66
Churchill had fought the mahdi army in the sudan the taliban precursor in malakand the mad mullah
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (PXvVL)
67
And Vmom, thanks for the tip. I've been waiting for a new Flavia story!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (kpS4V)
68
But, but, what about the Good Samaritan?!?!
-"Conservative" "Christians"
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:30 AM (lHPJf)
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This belief is of course situational. Ukraine's borders are found in the Old Testament and we are commanded to maintain Stalin's demarcation or be cast into the outer darkness.
-"Conservative" "Christians"
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:30 AM (lHPJf)
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This belief is of course situational. Ukraine's borders are found in the Old Testament and we are commanded to maintain Stalin's demarcation or be cast into the outer darkness.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (llXky)
69
To that end, he recognized Hitler was bad news, and also that firm opposition would result in his political defeat. It is not possible to dispute that French irresolution and British cowardice over the Rhineland encouraged Hitlerite aggressor, nor can one argue that Britain's decision condemn Mussolini over Ethiopia while doing nothing substantive to stop him was the worst posssible choice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (llXky)
Not to mention that Churchill spent a good chunk of the 30s proposing one anti-German alliance after another so that it wouldn't come to war, only to be ignored by both parties over and over again.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (llXky)
Not to mention that Churchill spent a good chunk of the 30s proposing one anti-German alliance after another so that it wouldn't come to war, only to be ignored by both parties over and over again.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (lHPJf)
70
I tried, both at my college library and the big regional public one, to find Ed Dover's The Long Way Home, which has been mentioned in laudatory terms here. No luck. As the lyrics go in the J. Geils Band's "Centerfold," "I guess I gotta buy it."
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (omVj0)
71
Singer was an extremely prolific writer of short stories and novels, generally dealing with Jewish life in Europe and in the US. He came to the US before the war and the camps. Wrote a lot for some of the Yiddish papers (he wrote nearly everything in Yiddish, if memory serves, and I believe he oversaw a lot of the later translations). He first got major notice with the translation (done by Saul Bellow, I think) of his short story "Gimpel the Fool." A good intro to his work would be his COLLECTED STORIES, which I think is free to read on Kindle Unlimited if you do ebooks. Pretty much all of his translated work is in print, and the Library of America did a 3-volume set of his complete short stories.
Also recommended is Richard Burgin's CONVERSATIONS WITH ISAAC BASHEVIS SINGER.
Also recommended is Richard Burgin's CONVERSATIONS WITH ISAAC BASHEVIS SINGER.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (q3u5l)
72
I got another one of those "Now it can be told!" Space Nazi exposés, "Dark Fleet: The Secret Nazi Space Program and the Battle for the Solar System" by Len Kasten. It's like a window on an alternate timeline (or IS it?!). The cover has a Lizard Person in full dress uniform with Knight's Cross and other medals, presumably for conspicuous deviltry.
Kasten had me in the Acknowledgements: "I have relied freely and trustingly on the reports of the supersoldiers because all their testimonies, as amazing as they are, support each other." The supersoldiers in the secret space program are listed *by name*, and one of them is named Penny (the girl-next-door supersoldier).
I learned a new word: Intraterrestrial. Can't have pseudoscience without tossing in underground dwellers/Hollow Earth Theory.
"This book will identify the role of and the incredible capabilities of the Archons and their protégés -- the Illuminati, the Reptilians, and the Nazi International -- in suppressing human knowledge and spiritual evolution."
Kasten had me in the Acknowledgements: "I have relied freely and trustingly on the reports of the supersoldiers because all their testimonies, as amazing as they are, support each other." The supersoldiers in the secret space program are listed *by name*, and one of them is named Penny (the girl-next-door supersoldier).
I learned a new word: Intraterrestrial. Can't have pseudoscience without tossing in underground dwellers/Hollow Earth Theory.
"This book will identify the role of and the incredible capabilities of the Archons and their protégés -- the Illuminati, the Reptilians, and the Nazi International -- in suppressing human knowledge and spiritual evolution."
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (kpS4V)
73
I am getting privacy errors for several sites recently. Maybe our betters are figuring out how to block sites they don't like from phones.
==
right...or...do you run antivirus or adblock of any sort ?
==
right...or...do you run antivirus or adblock of any sort ?
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (V13WU)
74
Churchill had fought the mahdi army in the sudan the taliban precursor in malakand the mad mullah
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (PXvVL)
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Yes, and he condemned the destruction of the Mahdi's tomb as barbaric. Not much of a hater.
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:41 AM (PXvVL)
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Yes, and he condemned the destruction of the Mahdi's tomb as barbaric. Not much of a hater.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (llXky)
75
In the first Saint novel, "The Last Hero," published in the late 1920s, Simon Templar asserts that modern wars are started solely to enrich financiers.
I rolled my eyes -- then.
But I still think the overthrow of Saddam Hussein was beneficial to the world.
I rolled my eyes -- then.
But I still think the overthrow of Saddam Hussein was beneficial to the world.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (p/isN)
76
The conservative movement (such as it is) is riddled with heresies right now, I'm particularly annoyed by the recent discovery that Christianity carries with it a ban on national borders and laws about property, both of which are suddenly an affront to God. Apparently, when a foreign people crosses your border and helps themselves to your things, burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
are these the same conservatives that vote Democrat in every election?
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
are these the same conservatives that vote Democrat in every election?
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (D7oie)
77
I haven't watched the Tucker interview with the anti Churchill guy, but the brief snippets I have heard suggest he is little more than a revisionist.
To suggest that Dresden was a war crime intentionally targeting civilians while Hitler was indiscriminately launching ballistic missiles at London is ridiculous.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
To suggest that Dresden was a war crime intentionally targeting civilians while Hitler was indiscriminately launching ballistic missiles at London is ridiculous.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (BoRyq)
78
Fact: the underground-dwelling Reptilians may have been on Earth first, but another race of humans, our cousins, were the first to settle this solar system, habitating Mars and the giant planet Maldek that existed between Mars and Jupiter.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phaeton
_(hypothetical_planet)
Every sentence is a revelation:
* These Reptilians brought with them their primary food source: dinosaurs.
* They towed the Moon over here and positioned it to act as a staging area for their conquest of Earth, and nudged our planet into its current "Goldilocks" orbit.
* Venus is actually one of their planet-sized spacecraft left over from the journey to our system.
* The Grays are servants of the Reptilians.
* We are composed of the DNA of people from several human civilizations of the Federation, plus a bit of Reptilian.
* The British royal family is of Reptilian-human hybrid bloodline (but we all knew that)
Our cousins the Lyrans established Atlantis and drove the Reptilians underground, where the lizardoids made an elaborate network of tunnels with mag-lev supersonic rail systems, and they fly their spaceships out through portals in the poles.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phaeton
_(hypothetical_planet)
Every sentence is a revelation:
* These Reptilians brought with them their primary food source: dinosaurs.
* They towed the Moon over here and positioned it to act as a staging area for their conquest of Earth, and nudged our planet into its current "Goldilocks" orbit.
* Venus is actually one of their planet-sized spacecraft left over from the journey to our system.
* The Grays are servants of the Reptilians.
* We are composed of the DNA of people from several human civilizations of the Federation, plus a bit of Reptilian.
* The British royal family is of Reptilian-human hybrid bloodline (but we all knew that)
Our cousins the Lyrans established Atlantis and drove the Reptilians underground, where the lizardoids made an elaborate network of tunnels with mag-lev supersonic rail systems, and they fly their spaceships out through portals in the poles.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (kpS4V)
79
"This book will identify the role of and the incredible capabilities of the Archons and their protégés -- the Illuminati, the Reptilians, and the Nazi International -- in suppressing human knowledge and spiritual evolution."
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (kpS4V)
---
How do the Templars fit in? Can't leave out the Templars.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (kpS4V)
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How do the Templars fit in? Can't leave out the Templars.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (llXky)
80
FWIW you can encode text as a QR code too. I saw a blurb on it on Hackaday. I am not sure how useful it is, I suspect you could encode a user manual on the side of a product at need.
Correct, but it's a relatively limited amount of text so a link to more text is the most useful, er, use.
Correct, but it's a relatively limited amount of text so a link to more text is the most useful, er, use.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:44 AM (/y8xj)
81
The Antarctic Nazi section is a crazypants assertion of unsubstantiated "facts", like Base 211 "New Berlin" in Neuschwabenland has been estimated to have a current population of two million. Estimated by who? Did they send a team to the Olympics?
You space nerds might be surprised to learn that the first man on the moon was in fact Werner Theisenberg of the Kriegsmarine, landing on the Mare Imbrium on August 23, 1942. Heinlein was right about rocket Nazis!
You space nerds might be surprised to learn that the first man on the moon was in fact Werner Theisenberg of the Kriegsmarine, landing on the Mare Imbrium on August 23, 1942. Heinlein was right about rocket Nazis!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:44 AM (kpS4V)
82
Ok thats way over on the crazy side (so where was the moon before)
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:45 AM (PXvVL)
83
I don't know what it means that a QR code is "just text". Does that mean it can't download trackers or malicious stuff or steal my data?
Think of a QR code as any other text code: Morse code, or the alpha-bravo-charlie code, or a captain video decoder ring. All they can do is be a representation of letters and numbers. They cannot, simply by looking at them or listening to them, download anything.
However, if you are using a computer program to decode the code into text, and the text contains a URL, it is technically possible for the computer program you’re using (the QR code reader) to automatically visit any encoded URL. If that happens, it is no different than visiting the website via any other app. If it is a malicious site or the site contains malicious content, it will have its way with your computer.
Note that I have never seen a QR code reader so poorly programmed as to auto visit URLs, but wouldn’t be surprised if such a beast exists. The QR code reader built into the iPhone doesn’t, for example. It requires you to tap on the URL once it’s decoded.
Think of a QR code as any other text code: Morse code, or the alpha-bravo-charlie code, or a captain video decoder ring. All they can do is be a representation of letters and numbers. They cannot, simply by looking at them or listening to them, download anything.
However, if you are using a computer program to decode the code into text, and the text contains a URL, it is technically possible for the computer program you’re using (the QR code reader) to automatically visit any encoded URL. If that happens, it is no different than visiting the website via any other app. If it is a malicious site or the site contains malicious content, it will have its way with your computer.
Note that I have never seen a QR code reader so poorly programmed as to auto visit URLs, but wouldn’t be surprised if such a beast exists. The QR code reader built into the iPhone doesn’t, for example. It requires you to tap on the URL once it’s decoded.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 09:45 AM (olroh)
84
Thanks, techies, for the info on QR codes. Sounds like it's fine to scan them. There's one I have to use for work, but it takes me to a website if I decline installing an app.
Posted by: Emmie at September 15, 2024 09:46 AM (Sf2cq)
85
In the first Saint novel, "The Last Hero," published in the late 1920s, Simon Templar asserts that modern wars are started solely to enrich financiers.
I rolled my eyes -- then.
But I still think the overthrow of Saddam Hussein was beneficial to the world.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (p/isN)
---
People see defense industries booming and think "Wow, it's all a racket to make money."
They miss the massive destruction of wealth that accompanies this, because financiers are supposed to be super-smart, which is why companies never go bankrupt, stock markets never crash, etc.
"I'm going to get rich by having my factory nationalized and my fleet of merchant ships sunk"
I rolled my eyes -- then.
But I still think the overthrow of Saddam Hussein was beneficial to the world.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (p/isN)
---
People see defense industries booming and think "Wow, it's all a racket to make money."
They miss the massive destruction of wealth that accompanies this, because financiers are supposed to be super-smart, which is why companies never go bankrupt, stock markets never crash, etc.
"I'm going to get rich by having my factory nationalized and my fleet of merchant ships sunk"
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:47 AM (llXky)
86
1931, from an interview with JV Stalin :
"E.L.: I will ask you a question that may astonish you greatly.
Stalin: We Russian Bolsheviks have long forgotten how to be astonished.
E.L.: Aye, and we in Germany too.
Stalin: Yes, you in Germany, too, will soon forget how to be astonished...."
"E.L.: I will ask you a question that may astonish you greatly.
Stalin: We Russian Bolsheviks have long forgotten how to be astonished.
E.L.: Aye, and we in Germany too.
Stalin: Yes, you in Germany, too, will soon forget how to be astonished...."
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:48 AM (V13WU)
87
59 ... "someone unknown to me yet gifted me with a literal boxful of Robert Ruark books accompanied by a note saying " you may enjoy these."
IRONGRANDPA,
I hope the box included "The Old Man and the Boy" and the follow-on book. So different from his African stories but beautifully written.
IRONGRANDPA,
I hope the box included "The Old Man and the Boy" and the follow-on book. So different from his African stories but beautifully written.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:48 AM (zudum)
88
I tried, both at my college library and the big regional public one, to find Ed Dover's The Long Way Home, which has been mentioned in laudatory terms here. No luck. As the lyrics go in the J. Geils Band's "Centerfold," "I guess I gotta buy it."
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius
I found a signed copy on Thriftbooks for about $10 with shipping.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius
I found a signed copy on Thriftbooks for about $10 with shipping.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:48 AM (BoRyq)
89
You space nerds might be surprised to learn that the first man on the moon was in fact Werner Theisenberg of the Kriegsmarine, landing on the Mare Imbrium on August 23, 1942. Heinlein was right about rocket Nazis!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:44 AM (kpS4V)
---
For folks into that sort of thing but who want a bit more sophistication, I suggest Focault's Pendulum by Umberto Eco. A truly masterful discussion of conspiracy theories.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:44 AM (kpS4V)
---
For folks into that sort of thing but who want a bit more sophistication, I suggest Focault's Pendulum by Umberto Eco. A truly masterful discussion of conspiracy theories.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (llXky)
90
This book will identify the role of and the incredible capabilities of the Archons and their protégés -- the Illuminati, the Reptilians, and the Nazi International -- in suppressing human knowledge and spiritual evolution."
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (kpS4V)
---
How do the Templars fit in? Can't leave out the Templars.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (llXky)
Freemasons? Can't leave out the Freemasons !
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:42 AM (kpS4V)
---
How do the Templars fit in? Can't leave out the Templars.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (llXky)
Freemasons? Can't leave out the Freemasons !
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (V13WU)
91
Speaking of cozy books I'd like to again recommend the Anty Boisjoly mysteries by PJ Fitzsimmons. They are humorous locked-room mysteries inspired by Fitzsimmons's love of PJ Wodehouse. Think of what Bertie Wooster would be like if he were smart and you have a sketch of Anty.
The mysteries themselves are intentionally silly and the books are hilarious. (I got my husband hooked on them and he agrees.) The eighth book in the series, "Death Reports to a Health Resort," was just released and like many of the other stories involves one of Anty's extremely eccentric relatives. You can read them in order but you don't have to to enjoy them.
One of my favorite features of the books is that each features an animal (or group of animals) as a significant factor in the story.
The mysteries themselves are intentionally silly and the books are hilarious. (I got my husband hooked on them and he agrees.) The eighth book in the series, "Death Reports to a Health Resort," was just released and like many of the other stories involves one of Anty's extremely eccentric relatives. You can read them in order but you don't have to to enjoy them.
One of my favorite features of the books is that each features an animal (or group of animals) as a significant factor in the story.
Posted by: Art Rondelet of Malmsey at September 15, 2024 09:50 AM (FEVMW)
92
I am not running an ad blocker. The privacy errors come and go. I will get an error, then ten minutes later, it goes away. I can bypass it by using incognito mode.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (BoRyq)
93
To suggest that Dresden was a war crime intentionally targeting civilians while Hitler was indiscriminately launching ballistic missiles at London is ridiculous.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (BoRyq)
---
A Venn diagram of people who believe bombing Hiroshima was a war crime and people who think Trump supporters should be put into death camps would show significant overlap.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (BoRyq)
---
A Venn diagram of people who believe bombing Hiroshima was a war crime and people who think Trump supporters should be put into death camps would show significant overlap.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (llXky)
94
Templars a thief isnt he so of course hes a cynic
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (PXvVL)
95
Sorry to blanket-post, but the book is just so much fun. All this wild stuff presented as absolute fact. Lizard Nazi space bases on the Moon, Mars, Triton, and beyond! The air on the Moon and Mars is thin but breathable, but THEY don't want you to know that!
Just remember, Horde authors, this guy got published. There's hope!
Just remember, Horde authors, this guy got published. There's hope!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (kpS4V)
96
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:36 AM (D7oie)
My take on that is "Yes, but." I've given papers at historical conferences about how popular takes on WWI changed over time, so I know all about that. And obviously, if new information surfaces that calls into question our understanding of a person or event, that needs to be discussed.
But the revisionists don't have anything new. Every "hot" and "edgy" criticism of Churchill right now has been circulating since 1945, if not earlier. And if the main criticism against him is that he fought, as Pat Buchanan put it, an "unnecessary" war against Hitler that allowed the Soviet Union to take over E Europe, you have to reckon with the fact that he repeatedly tried to stop Hitler in the 30s under conditions that would have kept the USSR off the picture.
Like a lot of revisionists, these guys are good at banging away on a few points, but not at seeing the whole picture.
My take on that is "Yes, but." I've given papers at historical conferences about how popular takes on WWI changed over time, so I know all about that. And obviously, if new information surfaces that calls into question our understanding of a person or event, that needs to be discussed.
But the revisionists don't have anything new. Every "hot" and "edgy" criticism of Churchill right now has been circulating since 1945, if not earlier. And if the main criticism against him is that he fought, as Pat Buchanan put it, an "unnecessary" war against Hitler that allowed the Soviet Union to take over E Europe, you have to reckon with the fact that he repeatedly tried to stop Hitler in the 30s under conditions that would have kept the USSR off the picture.
Like a lot of revisionists, these guys are good at banging away on a few points, but not at seeing the whole picture.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (lHPJf)
97
I'm particularly annoyed by the recent discovery that Christianity carries with it a ban on national borders and laws about property, both of which are suddenly an affront to God. Apparently, when a foreign people crosses your border and helps themselves to your things, burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
Sounds like something "Rev." Benjamin Cremer would say. He's a big FaceBook favorite of some evangelical leftists I know.
We live in a truly stupid age.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:26 AM (llXky)
Sounds like something "Rev." Benjamin Cremer would say. He's a big FaceBook favorite of some evangelical leftists I know.
Posted by: Emmie at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (Sf2cq)
98
Currently rereading Why the Allies Won
by R.J. Overy.
This is a good overview of why the Allies won in WWII. It was not pre-ordained. He examines tactics, strategy, production, technological innovations and morale as factors to victory.
I am particularly interested in why a very advanced, well trained force like the German land forces failed. Besides the massive strategic, economic, and production blunders, what sustained the fight was indoctrinated troops, convinced that they were the good guys against the Commies of the USSR.
But the world was eventually united in crushing the parvenu Adolf Hitler. Because of his extra evil nature, and his base desires.
There may be parallels in how the US Deep State is treating the rest of the world, uniting them against the US of A.
This is the other side of the coin to the incisive book Hitler's Mistakes by Ronald Lewin.
by R.J. Overy.
This is a good overview of why the Allies won in WWII. It was not pre-ordained. He examines tactics, strategy, production, technological innovations and morale as factors to victory.
I am particularly interested in why a very advanced, well trained force like the German land forces failed. Besides the massive strategic, economic, and production blunders, what sustained the fight was indoctrinated troops, convinced that they were the good guys against the Commies of the USSR.
But the world was eventually united in crushing the parvenu Adolf Hitler. Because of his extra evil nature, and his base desires.
There may be parallels in how the US Deep State is treating the rest of the world, uniting them against the US of A.
This is the other side of the coin to the incisive book Hitler's Mistakes by Ronald Lewin.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (u82oZ)
99
For folks into that sort of thing but who want a bit more sophistication, I suggest Focault's Pendulum by Umberto Eco. A truly masterful discussion of conspiracy theories.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (llXky)
---
Welp. Now I have move that up in my TBR queue...
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (llXky)
---
Welp. Now I have move that up in my TBR queue...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 09:52 AM (zP09t)
100
well, I can get geopolitics and wrangling on it any time else during the week. No reason to hang around waiting for book talk
Chau, pues
Chau, pues
Posted by: Kindltot at September 15, 2024 09:53 AM (D7oie)
101
Freemasons? Can't leave out the Freemasons !
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (V13WU)
---
Laugh if you want, but as Hugh Thomas points out in his massive doorstopper on the Spanish Civil War, a huge proportion of the socialist/anarchist leadership were top-ranked Freemasons. That's why Franco railed about them.
And Americans, being ignorant, assumed he had a vendetta against Shriners riding toy cars. Nope, the Spanish Freemasons really did smash churches and kill clergy.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:49 AM (V13WU)
---
Laugh if you want, but as Hugh Thomas points out in his massive doorstopper on the Spanish Civil War, a huge proportion of the socialist/anarchist leadership were top-ranked Freemasons. That's why Franco railed about them.
And Americans, being ignorant, assumed he had a vendetta against Shriners riding toy cars. Nope, the Spanish Freemasons really did smash churches and kill clergy.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:53 AM (llXky)
102
Well more free lance operative
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:54 AM (PXvVL)
103
Thanks for the Book Thread, Perfessor! Always enjoyable and a learning experience.
I am reading one of the early works of a favorite author. It's interesting to see how she has evolved in her writing skills since the first few books she wrote. Gives me hope for the improvement of my own writing skills.
I am reading one of the early works of a favorite author. It's interesting to see how she has evolved in her writing skills since the first few books she wrote. Gives me hope for the improvement of my own writing skills.
Posted by: Legally Sufficient at September 15, 2024 09:55 AM (CiNoz)
104
This recent condemnation of Churchill reeks of stupidity and ignorance. That some comes from Tucker is worse. Read his own writings for a true feel for the man.
For an interesting insight into Churchill, read his "Painting as a Pastime". History, philosophy, and the serious benefits of a passionate hobby.
For an interesting insight into Churchill, read his "Painting as a Pastime". History, philosophy, and the serious benefits of a passionate hobby.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 09:55 AM (zudum)
105
I am starting to believe that drawing historical parallels is not an exact science...
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:55 AM (V13WU)
106
Supposedly Trotsky dabbled in acting while living in NYC, and played an anarchist (typecasting!) in a silent film, which starred someone who was in a Western with John Wayne, who was in some movies with Ed Asner, who was in JFK with Kevin Bacon, so Trotsky has a Bacon Number of 4.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 09:56 AM (78a2H)
107
I like Chrichton's ideas - he has a great mnd for compelling stories. Unfortunately he can never seem to resolve his books rationally. Most of the ones I've read just do a "magical" ending where they nuke the site or find a balloon and fly away (congo). Dust off hands and never wrestle with the actually working through the resolution of the book's big issues
The climate change book would be a great book for him to actually work out a resolution, as he sees it, to whatever issues he raises in
the book. I'm curious if that happens here or is it just a "Well, that happened. I'm leaving now." sort of approach.
The climate change book would be a great book for him to actually work out a resolution, as he sees it, to whatever issues he raises in
the book. I'm curious if that happens here or is it just a "Well, that happened. I'm leaving now." sort of approach.
Posted by: 496 at September 15, 2024 09:56 AM (1h4E5)
108
Andrew Roberts was recommend by a number of people whose opinions I respect.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 09:56 AM (V13WU)
109
Sounds like something "Rev." Benjamin Cremer would say. He's a big FaceBook favorite of some evangelical leftists I know.
Posted by: Emmie at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (Sf2cq)
---
Weird that I never see these guys doing corporal acts of mercy. You know, working at a soup kitchen or washing the feet of the poor on Easter.
Weird how they live in nice houses, safe neighborhoods.
Kind of like how Linsday Graham and David French are such super-soldiers when all they did was process paperwork in the safest possible locations.
Posted by: Emmie at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (Sf2cq)
---
Weird that I never see these guys doing corporal acts of mercy. You know, working at a soup kitchen or washing the feet of the poor on Easter.
Weird how they live in nice houses, safe neighborhoods.
Kind of like how Linsday Graham and David French are such super-soldiers when all they did was process paperwork in the safest possible locations.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:57 AM (llXky)
110
@94 --
Charteris says in his introduction in a later edition of "The Last Hero" that such beliefs were common in the years after The Great War.
Charteris says in his introduction in a later edition of "The Last Hero" that such beliefs were common in the years after The Great War.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 09:57 AM (p/isN)
111
78
Every sentence is a revelation:
* These Reptilians brought with them their primary food source: dinosaurs.
* They towed the Moon over here and positioned it to act as a staging area for their conquest of Earth, and nudged our planet into its current "Goldilocks" orbit.
* Venus is actually one of their planet-sized spacecraft left over from the journey to our system.
* The Grays are servants of the Reptilians.
* We are composed of the DNA of people from several human civilizations of the Federation, plus a bit of Reptilian.
* The British royal family is of Reptilian-human hybrid bloodline (but we all knew that)
Our cousins the Lyrans established Atlantis and drove the Reptilians underground, where the lizardoids made an elaborate network of tunnels with mag-lev supersonic rail systems, and they fly their spaceships out through portals in the poles.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at Se
And to think: sometimes I roll my eyes at the silliness that my comic books sometimes push. The list above makes the Pheonix saga look downright pedestrian!
Every sentence is a revelation:
* These Reptilians brought with them their primary food source: dinosaurs.
* They towed the Moon over here and positioned it to act as a staging area for their conquest of Earth, and nudged our planet into its current "Goldilocks" orbit.
* Venus is actually one of their planet-sized spacecraft left over from the journey to our system.
* The Grays are servants of the Reptilians.
* We are composed of the DNA of people from several human civilizations of the Federation, plus a bit of Reptilian.
* The British royal family is of Reptilian-human hybrid bloodline (but we all knew that)
Our cousins the Lyrans established Atlantis and drove the Reptilians underground, where the lizardoids made an elaborate network of tunnels with mag-lev supersonic rail systems, and they fly their spaceships out through portals in the poles.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at Se
And to think: sometimes I roll my eyes at the silliness that my comic books sometimes push. The list above makes the Pheonix saga look downright pedestrian!
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 09:57 AM (Lhaco)
112
The villain was sort of a pre blofeld
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:58 AM (PXvVL)
113
Congo was kind of a lark on his part the film was worse
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:59 AM (PXvVL)
114
But the world was eventually united in crushing the parvenu Adolf Hitler. Because of his extra evil nature, and his base desires.
There may be parallels in how the US Deep State is treating the rest of the world, uniting them against the US of A.
This is the other side of the coin to the incisive book Hitler's Mistakes by Ronald Lewin.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (u82oZ)
Salty, in my view a classic example of that was Hitler's treatment of the peoples in the portions of the Soviet Union overrun in 1941. Theoretically, he could easily have pitched this as a war of liberation, encouraging the Balts and Ukrainians and others to join with him in overthrowing Stalin's evil regime, and in fact they were more than ready to do so. But his own plans called for treating them like cattle or worse, and the Wehrmacht and SS soon made that clear, thus driving them, against their own wishes, back into the arms of Moscow.
To summarize what other historians have said, he couldn't have done anything else, or he wouldn't have been Hitler.
There may be parallels in how the US Deep State is treating the rest of the world, uniting them against the US of A.
This is the other side of the coin to the incisive book Hitler's Mistakes by Ronald Lewin.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (u82oZ)
Salty, in my view a classic example of that was Hitler's treatment of the peoples in the portions of the Soviet Union overrun in 1941. Theoretically, he could easily have pitched this as a war of liberation, encouraging the Balts and Ukrainians and others to join with him in overthrowing Stalin's evil regime, and in fact they were more than ready to do so. But his own plans called for treating them like cattle or worse, and the Wehrmacht and SS soon made that clear, thus driving them, against their own wishes, back into the arms of Moscow.
To summarize what other historians have said, he couldn't have done anything else, or he wouldn't have been Hitler.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 09:59 AM (lHPJf)
115
Welp. Now I have move that up in my TBR queue...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 09:52 AM (zP09t)
---
It's a bit dense, but really good. Eco knows his stuff, and the references alone will keep you busy. I actually had to track down The Chemical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz, and got absolutely nothing out of it because of course it's all allegory.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 09:52 AM (zP09t)
---
It's a bit dense, but really good. Eco knows his stuff, and the references alone will keep you busy. I actually had to track down The Chemical Wedding of Christian Rosenkreutz, and got absolutely nothing out of it because of course it's all allegory.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:59 AM (llXky)
116
Years back I did read Something of Value and Uhuru, didn't realize he wrote a bunch of stuff, this has the reading covered for a bit, it seems, don't know just what is in there, it's a BIG box.
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at September 15, 2024
***
Hang on to them, IG. Ruark will probably be un-personed soon, if he hasn't already for his views on human nature and race. Uhuru is already hard to find.
Posted by: IRONGRAMPA at September 15, 2024
***
Hang on to them, IG. Ruark will probably be un-personed soon, if he hasn't already for his views on human nature and race. Uhuru is already hard to find.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:00 AM (omVj0)
117
13 I read the entire Generac manual cover to cover.
I heard that it was electrifying.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:07 AM (/y8xj)
I got a charge out of it.
It help to ground oneself by reading.
I heard that it was electrifying.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 09:07 AM (/y8xj)
I got a charge out of it.
It help to ground oneself by reading.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 10:00 AM (gbOdA)
118
FWIW you can encode text as a QR code too… I am not sure how useful it is,
Not as useful as one might think. As Oddbob wrote, it’s basically limited. I did some experiments with encoding recipes using QR codes, and while you can pretty much encode any amount of text you would want (for that use, anyway) the ability of cameras to read that amount of text is spotty or nonexistent. The more dense the QR code the more likely it is that the camera won’t even recognize it as a QR code, let alone be able to distinguish the individual characters.
Again, think of Morse code: where Morse code fits text into an amount of time, QR codes fit text into an amount of space. If you tried to fit an entire book into ten seconds of Morse, few people or even computers would recognize that it was even Morse code, let alone differentiate the characters.
I have my notes about encoding larger amounts of text into QR codes, as well as a MacOS script to do so, at the link in my nic.
Not as useful as one might think. As Oddbob wrote, it’s basically limited. I did some experiments with encoding recipes using QR codes, and while you can pretty much encode any amount of text you would want (for that use, anyway) the ability of cameras to read that amount of text is spotty or nonexistent. The more dense the QR code the more likely it is that the camera won’t even recognize it as a QR code, let alone be able to distinguish the individual characters.
Again, think of Morse code: where Morse code fits text into an amount of time, QR codes fit text into an amount of space. If you tried to fit an entire book into ten seconds of Morse, few people or even computers would recognize that it was even Morse code, let alone differentiate the characters.
I have my notes about encoding larger amounts of text into QR codes, as well as a MacOS script to do so, at the link in my nic.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:00 AM (olroh)
119
Condemnation of Churchill has been a past time of a certain group for a good long time. They do not necessary know each other, but Douglas Murray (one of those whose opinions I do respect) explained this phenomenon. What better way to undermine the British psyche than to attack an individual who is sort of a Titan in their world.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:01 AM (V13WU)
120
Supposedly Trotsky dabbled in acting while living in NYC, and played an anarchist (typecasting!) in a silent film, which starred someone who was in a Western with John Wayne, who was in some movies with Ed Asner, who was in JFK with Kevin Bacon, so Trotsky has a Bacon Number of 4.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 09:56 AM (78a2H)
Meaning that there are only five degrees of separation between Kevin Bacon and Vladimir Lenin.....
*mind explodes*
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 09:56 AM (78a2H)
Meaning that there are only five degrees of separation between Kevin Bacon and Vladimir Lenin.....
*mind explodes*
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:02 AM (lHPJf)
121
Andrew Roberts was recommend by a number of people whose opinions I respect.
Posted by: runner
Look for some of his interviews on YouTube for further confirmation. He is passionate about accurate history and everything I have read by him is excellent.
Posted by: runner
Look for some of his interviews on YouTube for further confirmation. He is passionate about accurate history and everything I have read by him is excellent.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 10:02 AM (BoRyq)
122
119 Condemnation of Churchill has been a past time of a certain group for a good long time. They do not necessary know each other, but Douglas Murray (one of those whose opinions I do respect) explained this phenomenon. What better way to undermine the British psyche than to attack an individual who is sort of a Titan in their world.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:01 AM (V13WU)
Now do Reagan did not end the USSR.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:01 AM (V13WU)
Now do Reagan did not end the USSR.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 10:03 AM (gbOdA)
123
The seeds of when eco went off jnto the weeds with the prague cementary about the origin of thd protocols
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:04 AM (PXvVL)
124
91 ... "Speaking of cozy books I'd like to again recommend the Anty Boisjoly mysteries by PJ Fitzsimmons. They are humorous locked-room mysteries inspired by Fitzsimmons's love of PJ Wodehouse. Think of what Bertie Wooster would be like if he were smart and you have a sketch of Anty."
Ar Rondelet,
Thanks for recommending this series. It sounds like a lot of fun reading. The animal involvement is a plus.
Ar Rondelet,
Thanks for recommending this series. It sounds like a lot of fun reading. The animal involvement is a plus.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:04 AM (zudum)
125
Condemnation of Churchill has been a past time of a certain group for a good long time. They do not necessary know each other, but Douglas Murray (one of those whose opinions I do respect) explained this phenomenon. What better way to undermine the British psyche than to attack an individual who is sort of a Titan in their world.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:01 AM (V13WU)
---
Churchill was also a ferocious anti-Bolshevik, which is why Buchanan's criticism is even more daft. This is the guy who literally coined the term "Iron Curtain!"
All during the aftermath of WW II he strenuously denounced the Soviet takeover of Eastern Europe, but he wasn't in power. The Labour government (and Harry Truman) faciliated Soviet dominance. Classic projection - blame the guy out of power for what you're doing.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:01 AM (V13WU)
---
Churchill was also a ferocious anti-Bolshevik, which is why Buchanan's criticism is even more daft. This is the guy who literally coined the term "Iron Curtain!"
All during the aftermath of WW II he strenuously denounced the Soviet takeover of Eastern Europe, but he wasn't in power. The Labour government (and Harry Truman) faciliated Soviet dominance. Classic projection - blame the guy out of power for what you're doing.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 10:05 AM (llXky)
126
. . . John Wayne, who was in some movies with Ed Asner, who was in JFK with Kevin Bacon, so Trotsky has a Bacon Number of 4.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
Who did Asner play in JFK? Though not a historically accurate film, a lot of the casting of the real people was spot on.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
Who did Asner play in JFK? Though not a historically accurate film, a lot of the casting of the real people was spot on.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:06 AM (omVj0)
127
I haven't watched the Tucker interview with the anti Churchill guy, but the brief snippets I have heard suggest he is little more than a revisionist.
To suggest that Dresden was a war crime intentionally targeting civilians while Hitler was indiscriminately launching ballistic missiles at London is ridiculous.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (BoRyq)
That dude was profoundly ignorant of history, of historical facts. He would have been easily embarrassed by any half way competent WWii historian, not even talking about someone like Roberts, but Tucker let him went. Maybe it's Tucker's style these days.
To suggest that Dresden was a war crime intentionally targeting civilians while Hitler was indiscriminately launching ballistic missiles at London is ridiculous.
The same sort of people say Hiroshima was heartless and ignore the 800,000 projected US casualties and over a million Japanese civilian deaths in an amphibious invasion.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 09:43 AM (BoRyq)
That dude was profoundly ignorant of history, of historical facts. He would have been easily embarrassed by any half way competent WWii historian, not even talking about someone like Roberts, but Tucker let him went. Maybe it's Tucker's style these days.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:06 AM (V13WU)
128
Dr. T
Absolutely. I gave a book report on this when I was a junior in High School.
We could have a great discussion on tyrants in history, trying to have it all in their lifetime. Upsetting sound planning by going early to the goal, and driving away creative people.
Levin makes the point in his book that a mere company (~100 people) of scientists and leaders in the arts left Greater Germany, and infused the US and Britain with greatness and the US with atomic weapons.
Absolutely. I gave a book report on this when I was a junior in High School.
We could have a great discussion on tyrants in history, trying to have it all in their lifetime. Upsetting sound planning by going early to the goal, and driving away creative people.
Levin makes the point in his book that a mere company (~100 people) of scientists and leaders in the arts left Greater Germany, and infused the US and Britain with greatness and the US with atomic weapons.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:07 AM (u82oZ)
129
Andrew Roberts was recommend by a number of people whose opinions I respect.
Posted by: runner
Look for some of his interviews on YouTube for further confirmation. He is passionate about accurate history and everything I have read by him is excellent.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 10:02 AM (BoRyq)
Roberts is quite good. I mentioned earlier that I prefer Manchester's biography of Churchill, but Roberts' one-volume treatment is probably more convenient and doesn't lose anything vital.
He's also written an interesting biography of George III, for what it's worth.
Posted by: runner
Look for some of his interviews on YouTube for further confirmation. He is passionate about accurate history and everything I have read by him is excellent.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 10:02 AM (BoRyq)
Roberts is quite good. I mentioned earlier that I prefer Manchester's biography of Churchill, but Roberts' one-volume treatment is probably more convenient and doesn't lose anything vital.
He's also written an interesting biography of George III, for what it's worth.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:07 AM (lHPJf)
130
61 Been listening to C J Box's Joe Picket series. I'm on book 12 of 25. It's all about a Wyoming game warden. Very masculine books. Lots of action. No DEI anywhere so far.
Posted by: lin-duh at September 15, 2024 09:37 AM (VCgbV)
Those are good! Most of them, I've read on paper, but I have listened to a couple on audio. That is the one reader I will speed up--I put him on 1.20 x, and it's about the right pace for me without making his voice change.
Posted by: lin-duh at September 15, 2024 09:37 AM (VCgbV)
Those are good! Most of them, I've read on paper, but I have listened to a couple on audio. That is the one reader I will speed up--I put him on 1.20 x, and it's about the right pace for me without making his voice change.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 10:07 AM (OX9vb)
131
113 Congo was kind of a lark on his part the film was worse
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:59 AM (PXvVL)
-------
When I read it I thought it was a fascinating idea and looked forward to his exploration of the topic. But the ending was so cheap it turned me off him for a long time. Fantastic concepts, zero follow through has been my experience.
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 09:59 AM (PXvVL)
-------
When I read it I thought it was a fascinating idea and looked forward to his exploration of the topic. But the ending was so cheap it turned me off him for a long time. Fantastic concepts, zero follow through has been my experience.
Posted by: 496 at September 15, 2024 10:07 AM (1h4E5)
132
The climate change book would be a great book for him to actually work out a resolution, as he sees it, to whatever issues he raises in
the book. I'm curious if that happens here or is it just a "Well, that happened. I'm leaving now." sort of approach.
Posted by: 496
Would that he could but he died in 2008.
the book. I'm curious if that happens here or is it just a "Well, that happened. I'm leaving now." sort of approach.
Posted by: 496
Would that he could but he died in 2008.
Posted by: Tuna at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (oaGWv)
133
Now do Reagan did not end the USSR.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 10:03 AM (gbOdA)
To be frank, Reagan, Thatcher, and JPII.
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 10:03 AM (gbOdA)
To be frank, Reagan, Thatcher, and JPII.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (V13WU)
134
There is nothing in the Bible that demands you tolerate foreign invasion. Some people like to manipulate the "Flight into Egypt" as demanding open borders. This is stupid. And the NYT accusing people of "maligning" Haitian animal sacrifice is vulgar. They want their violent lumpen proletariat and chaos so they can impose a Godless communist state.
Posted by: Enough Bullshit at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (2NXcZ)
135
Guy bsnnister the ex fbi agent and oni agent this was all part of a dezinforma operation run by moscow through france amd italy
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (PXvVL)
136
A lot of the anti-Churchill stuff comes from either Commies or people who thought the wrong side won the war. Both love to focus on the man's personal shortcomings: "He was a drunk!" "He was a terrible businessman!" etc.
But of course that sort of argument is self-defeating. If the funny flag party could be defeated by some bumbling drunk, then obviously they were a bunch of idiots who couldn't do anything right except genocide.
And as for the Commies . . . how come they were supporting Mr. Mustache right up until Barbarossa?
Pygmies throwing mud at a giant's ankles is what they all are.
But of course that sort of argument is self-defeating. If the funny flag party could be defeated by some bumbling drunk, then obviously they were a bunch of idiots who couldn't do anything right except genocide.
And as for the Commies . . . how come they were supporting Mr. Mustache right up until Barbarossa?
Pygmies throwing mud at a giant's ankles is what they all are.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (78a2H)
137
I had a great, if retro, week. On a drive to Michigan I took a detour to a library book sale in Vienna, Missouri (quite a bit further off the highway than it looked on the map…) and they had a room full of free books. I picked up two Perry Mason mysteries and one Travis McGee mystery/thriller. So I read:
• Darker Than Amber (Travis McGee)
• The Case of the Moth-Eaten Mink (Perry Mason)
• The Case of the Queenly Contestant (Perry Mason)
This was the first Travis McGee book I’ve read; I expect to read more. Darker Than Amber starts off as a redemption story and ends as a revenge story. And a glimpse into the cruise industry of the sixties or so.
These are only the second and third Perry Mason books I’ve read. While I do enjoy the television show, I find the books far more compelling.
• Darker Than Amber (Travis McGee)
• The Case of the Moth-Eaten Mink (Perry Mason)
• The Case of the Queenly Contestant (Perry Mason)
This was the first Travis McGee book I’ve read; I expect to read more. Darker Than Amber starts off as a redemption story and ends as a revenge story. And a glimpse into the cruise industry of the sixties or so.
These are only the second and third Perry Mason books I’ve read. While I do enjoy the television show, I find the books far more compelling.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:09 AM (olroh)
138
"Levin makes the point in his book that a mere company (~100 people) of scientists and leaders in the arts left Greater Germany, and infused the US and Britain with greatness and the US with atomic weapons."
But we also got those pesky Frankfurt School refugees.
But we also got those pesky Frankfurt School refugees.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 10:09 AM (nFx0I)
139
I think the LOTR is the best one, though.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel
It fits really well in Larry Correia's Monster Hunter universe with his trailer trash elves
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel
It fits really well in Larry Correia's Monster Hunter universe with his trailer trash elves
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 10:09 AM (Ydd86)
140
As max holland has spelled out
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:09 AM (PXvVL)
141
All during the aftermath of WW II he strenuously denounced the Soviet takeover of Eastern Europe, but he wasn't in power. The Labour government (and Harry Truman) faciliated Soviet dominance. Classic projection - blame the guy out of power for what you're doing.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Yes, Britain and France declared war in Germany to free Poland. It only took about 50 years....
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
Yes, Britain and France declared war in Germany to free Poland. It only took about 50 years....
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 15, 2024 10:11 AM (BoRyq)
142
I had a great, if retro, week. On a drive to Michigan I took a detour to a library book sale in Vienna, Missouri (quite a bit further off the highway than it looked on the map…
and they had a room full of free books. I picked up two Perry Mason mysteries and one Travis McGee mystery/thriller.
----
Shoot. I missed it. That's just up the road from my little town.
and they had a room full of free books. I picked up two Perry Mason mysteries and one Travis McGee mystery/thriller.
----
Shoot. I missed it. That's just up the road from my little town.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:11 AM (zP09t)
143
Dr. T
I think New Scientist did an article where they proved, by experiment, that the world is a lot more connected than expected. Gatekeepers are important for that. But I think the number of links needed to connect people in the first and second worlds is less than 10.
Not sure if this includes Sub-Sahel Africa and Guadalcanal / Oceana.
I think New Scientist did an article where they proved, by experiment, that the world is a lot more connected than expected. Gatekeepers are important for that. But I think the number of links needed to connect people in the first and second worlds is less than 10.
Not sure if this includes Sub-Sahel Africa and Guadalcanal / Oceana.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:11 AM (u82oZ)
144
Just remember, Horde authors, this guy got published. There's hope!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (kpS4V)
By a reputable house, or a vanity, or self published press?
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (kpS4V)
By a reputable house, or a vanity, or self published press?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (0eaVi)
145
One thing that could ruin many a historian, and Roberts is one of them, is historical parallelism. You know, x to y is as hitler is to Putin type of parallelism that is blowing from many Europeans these days. So each of them has a speciality, but not everything is 100%.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (V13WU)
146
I appreciate the Crichton discussion. All I've read from him is "The Andromeda Strain" and "Jurassic Prk," but I've wanted to read "Sphere" -- and oldest son and his intended got that for me for my birthday.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (p/isN)
147
. . . This was the first Travis McGee book I’ve read; I expect to read more. Darker Than Amber starts off as a redemption story and ends as a revenge story. And a glimpse into the cruise industry of the sixties or so. . . .
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
***
The seventh in the series, I think. By that time John D. knew the characters and knew what they could and could not do. It was made into a film in about 1970 with Rod Taylor (The Time Machine, The Birds) as McGee.
It also has one of the great opening lines in all fiction.
"We were about to give up and call it a night when somebody dropped the girl off the bridge."
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
***
The seventh in the series, I think. By that time John D. knew the characters and knew what they could and could not do. It was made into a film in about 1970 with Rod Taylor (The Time Machine, The Birds) as McGee.
It also has one of the great opening lines in all fiction.
"We were about to give up and call it a night when somebody dropped the girl off the bridge."
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (omVj0)
148
>>>Churchill was also a ferocious anti-Bolshevik, which is why Buchanan's criticism is even more daft. This is the guy who literally coined the term "Iron Curtain!"
Revisionist critics: "That just proves our point! Churchill and the other neocons orchestrated the Cold War between America and Russia, so they could keep the sheeple distracted and siphon off power and money for themselves and their masters, the lizard race Gyrgax. ELEVENTY!!!!"
Revisionist critics: "That just proves our point! Churchill and the other neocons orchestrated the Cold War between America and Russia, so they could keep the sheeple distracted and siphon off power and money for themselves and their masters, the lizard race Gyrgax. ELEVENTY!!!!"
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (lHPJf)
149
Haven't read Ruark since college, and can't remember the last time I saw one of his titles on a used bookstore shelf. Think you can still find some of his hunting stuff and THE OLD MAN AND THE BOY without too much trouble, but the novels are getting a tad scarce. There are still a few good deals available through abebooks.com, though.
Back when NBC was doing its Saturday Night Movies in the early and mid-sixties, the film of SOMETHING OF VALUE used to get a lot of air time. It's worth a watch if you've never seen it, but the novel's even better.
Back when NBC was doing its Saturday Night Movies in the early and mid-sixties, the film of SOMETHING OF VALUE used to get a lot of air time. It's worth a watch if you've never seen it, but the novel's even better.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 10:13 AM (q3u5l)
150
To be frank, Reagan, Thatcher, and JPII.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (V13WU)
Who is the frank dude?
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:08 AM (V13WU)
Who is the frank dude?
Posted by: rhennigantx at September 15, 2024 10:13 AM (gbOdA)
151
Back when NBC was doing its Saturday Night Movies in the early and mid-sixties, the film of SOMETHING OF VALUE used to get a lot of air time. It's worth a watch if you've never seen it, but the novel's even better.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024
***
Sidney Poitier played the Kenyan antagonist, I think. Can't recall who played the main character, the hunter.
Back when NBC was doing its Saturday Night Movies in the early and mid-sixties, the film of SOMETHING OF VALUE used to get a lot of air time. It's worth a watch if you've never seen it, but the novel's even better.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024
***
Sidney Poitier played the Kenyan antagonist, I think. Can't recall who played the main character, the hunter.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:14 AM (omVj0)
152
Sidney Poitier played the Kenyan antagonist, I think. Can't recall who played the main character, the hunter.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere
Rock Hudson IIRC.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere
Rock Hudson IIRC.
Posted by: Tuna at September 15, 2024 10:15 AM (oaGWv)
Posted by: Anna Puma at September 15, 2024 10:15 AM (SuZ2y)
154
All this wild stuff presented as absolute fact. --All Hail
Back in the Fifties, a neighbor handed me a copy of Adamski's "Flying Saucers Have Landed." With the circles and arrows, and the paragraph on the back explaining what each was about.
I had just taken a book about Project Man High back to the Bookmobile, and she said, You like space? This is about space.
Despite some relatives, I don't think I'd ever realized the everyday banal appearance of insanity before.
Back in the Fifties, a neighbor handed me a copy of Adamski's "Flying Saucers Have Landed." With the circles and arrows, and the paragraph on the back explaining what each was about.
I had just taken a book about Project Man High back to the Bookmobile, and she said, You like space? This is about space.
Despite some relatives, I don't think I'd ever realized the everyday banal appearance of insanity before.
Posted by: Way,Way Downriver at September 15, 2024 10:15 AM (zdLoL)
155
Good morning, Perfesser! The Lenin book should be required reading for ‘young skulls filled with mush’. I miss Rush Limbaugh.
Posted by: Eromero at September 15, 2024 10:16 AM (DXbAa)
156
It fits really well in Larry Correia's Monster Hunter universe with his trailer trash elves
Monster Hunter has been mentioned/recommended several times in the book thread but nothing has made me want to read it as much as the phrase "trailer trash elves."
Monster Hunter has been mentioned/recommended several times in the book thread but nothing has made me want to read it as much as the phrase "trailer trash elves."
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 10:16 AM (/y8xj)
157
Ignoramus
We deliberately lacked (because of the early Deep Staters) anti-bodies against stupid systems of power grabs by infiltration of a high-trust nation.
Eisenhower should have been as active against commies like the Frankfort school as he was at illegal Mexican residents.
We deliberately lacked (because of the early Deep Staters) anti-bodies against stupid systems of power grabs by infiltration of a high-trust nation.
Eisenhower should have been as active against commies like the Frankfort school as he was at illegal Mexican residents.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:16 AM (u82oZ)
158
Weird that I never see these guys doing corporal acts of mercy. You know, working at a soup kitchen or washing the feet of the poor on Easter.
Weird how they live in nice houses, safe neighborhoods.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:57 AM (llXky)
Has either of the Sinister Ministers ever done any evangelizing, or just talk politics? Do they even lead worship services?
Weird how they live in nice houses, safe neighborhoods.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:57 AM (llXky)
Has either of the Sinister Ministers ever done any evangelizing, or just talk politics? Do they even lead worship services?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 10:16 AM (0eaVi)
159
I also read Peter Navarro’s In Trump Time: A Diary of the Plague Years. If you’re looking for a diary of the fight between Trump Republicans and the old guard, I highly recommend it.
Navarro does seem to believe that COVID was much more than a flu (attributing the believe that COVID was just a flu to one of Fauci’s early lies); but he also highlights how standard therapeutics were vilified; and—naming names—describes how much of our response to COVID was watered down by pro-China influences in the deep state and the Trump administration.
Its portrayal of the conflict between new/old Republicans reminds me a lot of Hunter S. Thompson’s portrayal of the Democrat’s 1972 convention in Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail.
Economic security is National Security. And if you try to sacrifice economic security on the altar of national security, as Globalists are wont to do, you wind up losing both.
Navarro does seem to believe that COVID was much more than a flu (attributing the believe that COVID was just a flu to one of Fauci’s early lies); but he also highlights how standard therapeutics were vilified; and—naming names—describes how much of our response to COVID was watered down by pro-China influences in the deep state and the Trump administration.
Its portrayal of the conflict between new/old Republicans reminds me a lot of Hunter S. Thompson’s portrayal of the Democrat’s 1972 convention in Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail.
Economic security is National Security. And if you try to sacrifice economic security on the altar of national security, as Globalists are wont to do, you wind up losing both.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:16 AM (olroh)
160
Good morning. I think. Need coffee.
Tired because appropriately for this thread was up late reading the newish J.R. Ward Beloved. It is the next in long line of Vampires fighting evil Lessers in Caldecott NY. Ward has created a pretty unique universe with characters with deep histories and crazy character flaws but somehow manage to keep the world safe while finding love and family.
If you like Christine Feehan you will like J.R.Ward.
Tired because appropriately for this thread was up late reading the newish J.R. Ward Beloved. It is the next in long line of Vampires fighting evil Lessers in Caldecott NY. Ward has created a pretty unique universe with characters with deep histories and crazy character flaws but somehow manage to keep the world safe while finding love and family.
If you like Christine Feehan you will like J.R.Ward.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 15, 2024 10:17 AM (t/2Uw)
161
As I was getting ready to post this morning, my cat Allie (seen above) decided she was going to be a literary critic again and plopped herself right down in the middle of the book I'm currently reading...(not that one, a different one)
*sigh*
I love her to death and I'm happy she has finally bonded with me, but as you all know, it's always a challenge dealing with pets sometimes...
*sigh*
I love her to death and I'm happy she has finally bonded with me, but as you all know, it's always a challenge dealing with pets sometimes...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:18 AM (zP09t)
162
@137 --
"TCOT Moth-Eaten Mink" is a humdinger. I have "Queenly Contestant" -- hell, I have almost all of them -- but I haven't read it yet.
"TCOT Moth-Eaten Mink" is a humdinger. I have "Queenly Contestant" -- hell, I have almost all of them -- but I haven't read it yet.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:18 AM (p/isN)
163
We also got Marlena Dietrich. So there is that.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:18 AM (V13WU)
164
Enrico Fermi nor Nils Bohr were German.
The atomic bomb was a Hungarian invention. Jew Science, too.
The atomic bomb was a Hungarian invention. Jew Science, too.
Posted by: Way,Way Downriver at September 15, 2024 10:19 AM (zdLoL)
165
*Hollywood also gained from German escapees.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:19 AM (V13WU)
166
I think New Scientist did an article where they proved, by experiment, that the world is a lot more connected than expected. Gatekeepers are important for that. But I think the number of links needed to connect people in the first and second worlds is less than 10.
Not sure if this includes Sub-Sahel Africa and Guadalcanal / Oceana.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:11 AM (u82oZ)
I've never really believed the "six degrees of separation" claim, to be honest. Of course, our web of connections always extends farther than it seems, but much of the world is still rather isolated, and there are some people who would have to go through a lot of links to reach one another.
I suppose it depends, too, on what constitutes a link. Friendship? Casual acquaintance? Having ever been in the same room together?
Not sure if this includes Sub-Sahel Africa and Guadalcanal / Oceana.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:11 AM (u82oZ)
I've never really believed the "six degrees of separation" claim, to be honest. Of course, our web of connections always extends farther than it seems, but much of the world is still rather isolated, and there are some people who would have to go through a lot of links to reach one another.
I suppose it depends, too, on what constitutes a link. Friendship? Casual acquaintance? Having ever been in the same room together?
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:19 AM (lHPJf)
167
Well donovan let marcuse and halperin into the oss
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:19 AM (PXvVL)
168
Anna Puma
Hungary provided their share of escapees, because the smart people saw what was coming and got out of the way. I include Austria, Hungary, and Germany as sources for that flight.
Hungary provided their share of escapees, because the smart people saw what was coming and got out of the way. I include Austria, Hungary, and Germany as sources for that flight.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (u82oZ)
169
Peter Lorre and Fritz Lang
Posted by: Anna Puma at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (SuZ2y)
170
Little Winger gave me a recommendation this week. "The Body Keeps the Score", by Dr. Bessel Van Der Kalk. He talks about how trauma can literally shape the brain and the body.
So I went off to find the book at the library. All copies checked out. So I decided to download the ebook from the library. I am 354th in line. Come on. 354 people in Kenosha want to study brain trauma? It's not like we live by the Mayo Clinic here.
So I went off to find the book at the library. All copies checked out. So I decided to download the ebook from the library. I am 354th in line. Come on. 354 people in Kenosha want to study brain trauma? It's not like we live by the Mayo Clinic here.
Posted by: grammie winger - cheesehead at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (SfhV1)
171
Levin is a good man and good conservative. He is certainly a lawyer and not a historian. Even among conservative thought leaders, Levin is no historian, we have better.
For example he gets civil war stats wrong regularly. He also, along with several conservatives, tries to bash anyone from the Civil War South as Democrat. Yeah we get it, but since the foundation Of modern conservatism is the South, you might want to let up on bashing there ancestors a bit.
For example he gets civil war stats wrong regularly. He also, along with several conservatives, tries to bash anyone from the Civil War South as Democrat. Yeah we get it, but since the foundation Of modern conservatism is the South, you might want to let up on bashing there ancestors a bit.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (1QGUf)
172
Dr. T
IIANM, they used random people in pairs and the postal system.
Person A, contact Person B with this letter.
IIANM, they used random people in pairs and the postal system.
Person A, contact Person B with this letter.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:21 AM (u82oZ)
173
If you're planning a dive into John D. MacDonald, don't skip the non-McGees. The Travis McGee books are terrific, but the non-series work is just as good.
The Rod Taylor film of DARKER THAN AMBER has at its finish one of the more vicious fight sequences ever, between Rod Taylor and William Smith. No stunt doubles and a lot of the blood ain't makeup.
The Rod Taylor film of DARKER THAN AMBER has at its finish one of the more vicious fight sequences ever, between Rod Taylor and William Smith. No stunt doubles and a lot of the blood ain't makeup.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 10:21 AM (q3u5l)
174
As Cervantes said, Asner played "Guy Bannister" in JFK. I had to look that up, because I have never watched JFK and have little desire to do so.
It's not a crazy conspiracy theory when Hollywood lefties believe it, apparently.
It's not a crazy conspiracy theory when Hollywood lefties believe it, apparently.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:22 AM (78a2H)
175
Lotte Lenya ! (born Austrian but lived and escaped Germanyin the 30s) Gotta love Lotte Lenya.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:22 AM (V13WU)
176
Eisenhower should have been as active against commies like the Frankfort school as he was at illegal Mexican residents.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024
***
The anti-McCarthy contingent in academia points out that Ike pretty much refused to interfere in McCarthy's Communist hunts. Maybe that was his (passive) way of fighting the Communists in America.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024
***
The anti-McCarthy contingent in academia points out that Ike pretty much refused to interfere in McCarthy's Communist hunts. Maybe that was his (passive) way of fighting the Communists in America.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:23 AM (omVj0)
177
Shoot. I missed it. That's just up the road from my little town.
If it’s a short drive, I recommend it. It isn’t huge, but I picked up some interesting non-free books, too.
• George M. Cohan: The Man Who Owned Broadway (John McCabe)
• Jesus of Nazareth (Joseph Ratzinger)
• The Library Book (Susan Orlean)
• Cookbooks Worth Collecting (Mary Barile)
I’ve since read The Library Book. It’s ostensibly about the Los Angeles Library fire, but done in a very memoirish style. It ends up being as much about the history of the library, libraries in general (in the eighties), and fire investigations in general. I enjoyed it, although she does shy away from talking about the extent of the homeless problem in the Central Library at least in that era.
If it’s a short drive, I recommend it. It isn’t huge, but I picked up some interesting non-free books, too.
• George M. Cohan: The Man Who Owned Broadway (John McCabe)
• Jesus of Nazareth (Joseph Ratzinger)
• The Library Book (Susan Orlean)
• Cookbooks Worth Collecting (Mary Barile)
I’ve since read The Library Book. It’s ostensibly about the Los Angeles Library fire, but done in a very memoirish style. It ends up being as much about the history of the library, libraries in general (in the eighties), and fire investigations in general. I enjoyed it, although she does shy away from talking about the extent of the homeless problem in the Central Library at least in that era.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:23 AM (olroh)
178
it's always a challenge dealing with pets spouses sometimes...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel
FIFY.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel
FIFY.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:23 AM (u82oZ)
179
I just started the Bridge of San Luis Rey. No spoilers, though the introduction pretty much laid it out.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 10:24 AM (1QGUf)
180
"We were about to give up and call it a night when somebody dropped the girl off the bridge."
Yes! I actually copied that line into my list of favorite opening lines, tacking on “It seemed to be a very final way of busting up a romance.”
Yes! I actually copied that line into my list of favorite opening lines, tacking on “It seemed to be a very final way of busting up a romance.”
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:24 AM (olroh)
181
Victor Borge, "The Great Dane."
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:25 AM (p/isN)
182
For example he gets civil war stats wrong regularly. He also, along with several conservatives, tries to bash anyone from the Civil War South as Democrat. Yeah we get it, but since the foundation Of modern conservatism is the South, you might want to let up on bashing there ancestors a bit.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (1QGUf)
This is one thing that kinda annoys me; the whole "Democrats haven't been this angry since Lincoln took away their slaves" line. Like you said, I get it; but an awful lot of water has passed under an awful lot of bridges since the 1860s, and the modern Democratic Party simply cannot be equated with the likes of Lee and other Southern leaders from that era.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 10:20 AM (1QGUf)
This is one thing that kinda annoys me; the whole "Democrats haven't been this angry since Lincoln took away their slaves" line. Like you said, I get it; but an awful lot of water has passed under an awful lot of bridges since the 1860s, and the modern Democratic Party simply cannot be equated with the likes of Lee and other Southern leaders from that era.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:25 AM (lHPJf)
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 10:25 AM (0eaVi)
184
Wolfus Aurelius
Weak Sauce.
Eisenhower, in his farewell speech, nailed the future problems. He was constrained from acting on that. Not sure why, but maybe because the process would be worse than a win.
Weak Sauce.
Eisenhower, in his farewell speech, nailed the future problems. He was constrained from acting on that. Not sure why, but maybe because the process would be worse than a win.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:25 AM (u82oZ)
185
Tony plana lent himself to the slander of one character who pointed out oswald was a commie bringier
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:26 AM (PXvVL)
186
Have to comment on Brandon Sanderson who is one of my favorite authors. The Way of Kings was the first Sanderson I read. I was floored. The thing I admire about his series writing, he finishes the story in the book, unlike say, R.R. Martin(spit). Yes, you want to read the next one and see where he takes the characters, but there is a satisfying finale.
The most enjoyable series though is second half of The Mistborn Series starring Wax and Wayne. A little shorter and more fun. The first book starts out with a train robbery by sci fi cowboys on a mythical planet. At least that's what I remember hooking me
The most enjoyable series though is second half of The Mistborn Series starring Wax and Wayne. A little shorter and more fun. The first book starts out with a train robbery by sci fi cowboys on a mythical planet. At least that's what I remember hooking me
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 15, 2024 10:27 AM (t/2Uw)
187
If you're planning a dive into John D. MacDonald, don't skip the non-McGees. The Travis McGee books are terrific, but the non-series work is just as good.
The Rod Taylor film of DARKER THAN AMBER has at its finish one of the more vicious fight sequences ever, between Rod Taylor and William Smith. No stunt doubles and a lot of the blood ain't makeup.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024
***
John D. wrote novels, mostly crime but with a couple of SF stories and some family dramas, for nearly fifteen years before creating McGee. He'd been told his stuff would sell even better with a series character. But he wanted one he could live with. So he wrote the first four before the first, The Deep Blue Goodbye, was published in '64. You can sort of tell; the first four are very good, but they are short by comparison with the fifth and succeeding stories.
As for the casting of McGee, he was okay with Taylor. He thought Robert Culp was terrible. (Oddly, Culp in 1970 *would* have matched the description of McGee very closely.)
The Rod Taylor film of DARKER THAN AMBER has at its finish one of the more vicious fight sequences ever, between Rod Taylor and William Smith. No stunt doubles and a lot of the blood ain't makeup.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024
***
John D. wrote novels, mostly crime but with a couple of SF stories and some family dramas, for nearly fifteen years before creating McGee. He'd been told his stuff would sell even better with a series character. But he wanted one he could live with. So he wrote the first four before the first, The Deep Blue Goodbye, was published in '64. You can sort of tell; the first four are very good, but they are short by comparison with the fifth and succeeding stories.
As for the casting of McGee, he was okay with Taylor. He thought Robert Culp was terrible. (Oddly, Culp in 1970 *would* have matched the description of McGee very closely.)
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:27 AM (omVj0)
188
170 ... "Come on. 354 people in Kenosha want to study brain trauma? It's not like we live by the Mayo Clinic here."
grammie,
We are still smiling about the Kenosha reference especially since Mrs. JTB grew up in Waukesha.
grammie,
We are still smiling about the Kenosha reference especially since Mrs. JTB grew up in Waukesha.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:27 AM (zudum)
189
We are still smiling about the Kenosha reference especially since Mrs. JTB grew up in Waukesha.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:27 AM (zudum)
Really?? One more reason to love her!
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:27 AM (zudum)
Really?? One more reason to love her!
Posted by: grammie winger - cheesehead at September 15, 2024 10:28 AM (SfhV1)
190
I have "Queenly Contestant" -- hell, I have almost all of them -- but I haven't read it yet.
I enjoyed it a lot, but from my limited perspective it’s an odd book for Perry Mason. While I never really understand how he can possibly bill for some of his incidentals—some of it, like nonchalantly chartering a flight from LA to Las Vegas, is probably just a relic of a different time—here he gets let go by his client and then keeps up the investigation purely to assuage his and Paul Drake’s curiosity. (Of course, I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that Things Continue Happening and The Client Reappears.)
I enjoyed it a lot, but from my limited perspective it’s an odd book for Perry Mason. While I never really understand how he can possibly bill for some of his incidentals—some of it, like nonchalantly chartering a flight from LA to Las Vegas, is probably just a relic of a different time—here he gets let go by his client and then keeps up the investigation purely to assuage his and Paul Drake’s curiosity. (Of course, I don’t think it’s a spoiler to say that Things Continue Happening and The Client Reappears.)
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:28 AM (olroh)
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 10:29 AM (/y8xj)
192
Yep, it was Rock Hudson and Sidney Poitier in SOMETHING OF VALUE. Also Dana Wynter (always a plus).
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 10:29 AM (q3u5l)
193
I just finished reading a single enormous volume containing the 10 separate Amber Chronicles by Roger Zelazny, released from 1970 through 1991. Took about two weeks to finish.
I vaguely recall probably having read the first two back in my college years, but didn't keep up with subsequent releases.
Anyhow, I enjoyed it a lot. And all ten for fifteen bucks or so was a deal. Took me away from current events, another good deal. Lots of treachery and backstabbing, but no effect on me personally.
I vaguely recall probably having read the first two back in my college years, but didn't keep up with subsequent releases.
Anyhow, I enjoyed it a lot. And all ten for fifteen bucks or so was a deal. Took me away from current events, another good deal. Lots of treachery and backstabbing, but no effect on me personally.
Posted by: From about That Time at September 15, 2024 10:30 AM (4780s)
194
John D. MacDonald wrote a fun and interesting SF book Ballroom of the Skies .
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (u82oZ)
195
I'm still reading the Robert E. Howard collection of "El Borak" stories. The man was obviously enchanted with the idea of Afghanistan and Central Asia. The intro credits Talbot Mundy and Kipling (of course) as his inspirations, but I expect he was also a fan of Harold Lamb.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (78a2H)
196
People sneer at George RR Martin now, and I have to agree that the first book of the Thrones series did not grab me at all. However, some of his earlier work is much much better. In about '83 he came out with Fevre Dream, a vampire story set in the pre-Civil War riverboat world -- sort of Stephen King meets Mark Twain without the homespun humor. His vampires are scary and very effective, and his lead character is memorable -- described as "the ugliest man on the [Mississippi] river."
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (omVj0)
Posted by: KHAAAN! at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (ZfP1m)
198
Tell me about Neville Chamberlain.
Posted by: lin-duh at September 15, 2024 10:33 AM (VCgbV)
199
I've often said GRR Martin was a great science fiction writer who got snookered into writing a giant fantasy novel and can't get out.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:33 AM (78a2H)
200
John D. MacDonald wrote a fun and interesting SF book Ballroom of the Skies .
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024
***
I have an omnibus with that, Wine of the Dreamers, and The Girl, the Gold Watch, and Everything. All three are great. I think Ballroom is the one that depicts a worn-out, dystopian future where "Pak-India" is the No. 1 world power?
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024
***
I have an omnibus with that, Wine of the Dreamers, and The Girl, the Gold Watch, and Everything. All three are great. I think Ballroom is the one that depicts a worn-out, dystopian future where "Pak-India" is the No. 1 world power?
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:33 AM (omVj0)
201
Trimesgistus @136 "Pygmies throwing mud at a giant's ankles is what they all are."
That is a brilliant line! Thank you.
That is a brilliant line! Thank you.
Posted by: John F. MacMichael at September 15, 2024 10:33 AM (aYnHS)
202
144 Just remember, Horde authors, this guy got published. There's hope!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (kpS4V)
By a reputable house, or a vanity, or self published press?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (0eaVi)
Bear & Company, Rochester, VT. I love their catalog, which is a crazy salad of New Age hokum, eastern mysticism, secret histories, and tantric sex manuals.
It's a "real" publishing house, but remember, prestige houses publish all sorts of crap too.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 09:51 AM (kpS4V)
By a reputable house, or a vanity, or self published press?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 10:12 AM (0eaVi)
Bear & Company, Rochester, VT. I love their catalog, which is a crazy salad of New Age hokum, eastern mysticism, secret histories, and tantric sex manuals.
It's a "real" publishing house, but remember, prestige houses publish all sorts of crap too.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:34 AM (kpS4V)
203
I wonder how the world would have been without Hitler. All that brainpower and talent would have stayed in Europe.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (p/isN)
204
GRR Martin was a great science fiction writer who got snookered into writing a giant fantasy novel and can't get out
-----
How Dickian!
-----
How Dickian!
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (kpS4V)
205
In about '83 he came out with Fevre Dream…
I second the recommendation of Fevre Dream. I think it’s the first George R. R. Martin I’ve read, and nothing else of his I’ve read compares with it.
It also has one of the oddest “and then several years passed” vignettes I’ve read. In retrospect, I suspect it’s written very much in an older style that would (with more words) been current in the era of the protagonists.
I second the recommendation of Fevre Dream. I think it’s the first George R. R. Martin I’ve read, and nothing else of his I’ve read compares with it.
It also has one of the oddest “and then several years passed” vignettes I’ve read. In retrospect, I suspect it’s written very much in an older style that would (with more words) been current in the era of the protagonists.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (olroh)
206
Weak Geek, one of the best Chrichton books I read was Dragon Teeth about rival dinosaur bone hunters in the Wild West. It is based on true story . The one I could not get at all is Eaters of the Dead. No, just no.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (t/2Uw)
207
I recall some of George Martin's short fiction as being a LOT of fun. Dig up a copy of his novelette "Sandkings" (which served as the basis of the two-parter that opened the new Outer Limits series). And if memory serves, his novel THE ARMAGEDDON RAG wasn't too dusty either.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (q3u5l)
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 10:36 AM (/y8xj)
209
Well its beowulf meets the arabs
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 10:37 AM (PXvVL)
210
I see a particular problem that plagues the Western world in discussing Ukraine, Russia, the Baltics and the whole Eastern front - they are viewing Russia through a Western prism. Every historian, save a few, every pundit, every blogger and opinionater. Russia is very very unique - it is West and East, it has an uncommon religious affiliation - swept away for 70+ years, but now somewhat resurrected. The population that was always prone to mysticism and superstition. Massive territory that definitely shaped its people's psyche. So basically the mysterious "Russian soul" that many tried to understand and could not, is still not understood by many who opine on the state of Russian affairs and worse - make geopolitical decisions!
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:37 AM (V13WU)
211
Martin's "A Song for Lya" appeared in Analog around '74, and garnered an Hugo nomination (or maybe and award too) back when the Hugo meant quality. I think he must just have gotten in over his head with the Thrones books.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (omVj0)
212
Weak Geek
All that time on the front lines of that meat-grinder WWI, and he was not killed. His survival led to an inflated sense of self-worth, IMHO.
ISTR when Churchill had a battalion command in the trenches (after Gallipoli) his unit was near Hitler's unit.
All that time on the front lines of that meat-grinder WWI, and he was not killed. His survival led to an inflated sense of self-worth, IMHO.
ISTR when Churchill had a battalion command in the trenches (after Gallipoli) his unit was near Hitler's unit.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (u82oZ)
213
"Come on. 354 people in Kenosha want to study brain trauma? It's not like we live by the Mayo Clinic here."
Haha! They probably aren't all in Kenosha...those online library apps often serve an entire state. But even at that, come on. 354 people in WI...
Haha! They probably aren't all in Kenosha...those online library apps often serve an entire state. But even at that, come on. 354 people in WI...
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (OX9vb)
214
Chamberlain and the rest of the "men of Munich" are a textbook example of why Despair is a sin. For them it was a mix of party politics -- because _nobody_ in Britain wanted to shoulder the expense of rearmament, least of all Labour -- and a bad case of believing German propaganda. The very idea that sane men in England with access to intelligence reports about the Luftwaffe and accurate data on the RAF could simply _assume_ a German invasion would succeed is utterly baffling. And that's not just hindsight: Churchill himself was baffled at the time by their attitude.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (78a2H)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:40 AM (u82oZ)
216
The anti-McCarthy contingent in academia points out that Ike pretty much refused to interfere in McCarthy's Communist hunts. Maybe that was his (passive) way of fighting the Communists in America.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:23 AM (omVj0)
Should have been more active and deported the "refugee" communists to Russia. They've systematically undermined the country by indoctrination.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:23 AM (omVj0)
Should have been more active and deported the "refugee" communists to Russia. They've systematically undermined the country by indoctrination.
Posted by: Enough Bullshit at September 15, 2024 10:40 AM (2NXcZ)
217
Martin's "A Song for Lya" appeared in Analog around '74, and garnered an Hugo nomination (or maybe and award too) back when the Hugo meant quality. I think he must just have gotten in over his head with the Thrones books.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (omVj0)
---
I have something lined up for next week that explains why he isn't able to finish this series...
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (omVj0)
---
I have something lined up for next week that explains why he isn't able to finish this series...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:40 AM (zP09t)
218
195 ... "I'm still reading the Robert E. Howard collection of "El Borak" stories. The man was obviously enchanted with the idea of Afghanistan and Central Asia."
Howard needed fanatically fierce tribesmen (and women) for those stories. Even now that reputation for the area persists. In the 1930 era it would also have the allure of foreign, uncivilized places. He sure made good use of them.
Howard needed fanatically fierce tribesmen (and women) for those stories. Even now that reputation for the area persists. In the 1930 era it would also have the allure of foreign, uncivilized places. He sure made good use of them.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (zudum)
219
That is a good book, maybe his best, and Crichton understood the nub of the problem.
I think a lot of people have a difficult time grasping the psychology of the Left, because they're sane. But it's really very simple. Just step back and look at the things they're passionate about.
The global warming scam, and attendant destruction of the energy system. Abortion. Homosexuality. Gun control. Child sterilization and genital mutilation. Pointless wars. Demonstrably disastrous socialism. Violent racism. Hatred of religion. And so on.
It's not complicated.
You're looking at a death cult.
I think a lot of people have a difficult time grasping the psychology of the Left, because they're sane. But it's really very simple. Just step back and look at the things they're passionate about.
The global warming scam, and attendant destruction of the energy system. Abortion. Homosexuality. Gun control. Child sterilization and genital mutilation. Pointless wars. Demonstrably disastrous socialism. Violent racism. Hatred of religion. And so on.
It's not complicated.
You're looking at a death cult.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (0FoWg)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (u82oZ)
221
Dig up a copy of his novelette "Sandkings"…
This was probably the first George R. R. Martin I read. It was in an early OMNI. Very strange, as I recall, a little over-the-top on denigrating collectors? And possibly an influence on the movie Small Soldiers.
And obviously memorable to remember from the name 29 years later.
This was probably the first George R. R. Martin I read. It was in an early OMNI. Very strange, as I recall, a little over-the-top on denigrating collectors? And possibly an influence on the movie Small Soldiers.
And obviously memorable to remember from the name 29 years later.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (olroh)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:44 AM (u82oZ)
223
I wonder how the world would have been without Hitler. All that brainpower and talent would have stayed in Europe.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (p/isN)
We would probably still be talking about the "Great Powers" of Europe. Their position wouldn't be as unchallenged as in 1900, due to competition from America and Russia; but their colonial empires might well still exist in some form, they likely would have had strong national economies, and the U.S., though top dog in the Western Hemisphere, would not have been the global superpower that it became.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 15, 2024 10:35 AM (p/isN)
We would probably still be talking about the "Great Powers" of Europe. Their position wouldn't be as unchallenged as in 1900, due to competition from America and Russia; but their colonial empires might well still exist in some form, they likely would have had strong national economies, and the U.S., though top dog in the Western Hemisphere, would not have been the global superpower that it became.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 15, 2024 10:44 AM (lHPJf)
224
so much to read, so little time!
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:47 AM (V13WU)
225
"Perfessor" Squirrel
You have set the hook. Let's see the harvest next week.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (u82oZ)
---
Trust me. It's a good one!
You have set the hook. Let's see the harvest next week.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:42 AM (u82oZ)
---
Trust me. It's a good one!
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:47 AM (zP09t)
226
I wonder if the Soviet Union would have lasted as long without a Great Patriotic War to unify the people behind Comrade Stalin? With no threat from N*zi Germany, they might have imploded a generation or two earlier, especially without the loot of eastern Europe to keep the system limping along.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:48 AM (78a2H)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (u82oZ)
228
Got Sir Humphrey Burton's biography of Leonard Bernstein in the mail this week.
I'm afraid I'm a non-believer in the Church of Lenny the Great. I don't like his compositions (with some exceptions) or his conducting (with many exceptions) or his personality.
Bernstein posed as the Great Intellectual, but got taken in by the Black Panthers. He posed as the Great Jew, but had a long-standing relationship with the Vienna Philharmonic, the most anti-semitic orchestra in Europe. He posed as the Great Liberal, but hid behind his company Amberson to charge enormous fees and rob collaborators of credit. He would blubber to his long-suffering wife over the phone that he loved her, then go off to a gay orgy.
He made a terrible mistake by taking on the music directorship of the New York Philharmonic, whereas he could have been the American Offenbach. He made another terrible mistake by giving up the music directorship of the New York Philharmonic and becoming a globe-trotting celeb, making impossibly mannered and bloated recordings. His last two decades are a sad tale of destructive drinking, smoking, sex and bizarre behavior, a madman who thought he was Leonard Bernstein.
I'm afraid I'm a non-believer in the Church of Lenny the Great. I don't like his compositions (with some exceptions) or his conducting (with many exceptions) or his personality.
Bernstein posed as the Great Intellectual, but got taken in by the Black Panthers. He posed as the Great Jew, but had a long-standing relationship with the Vienna Philharmonic, the most anti-semitic orchestra in Europe. He posed as the Great Liberal, but hid behind his company Amberson to charge enormous fees and rob collaborators of credit. He would blubber to his long-suffering wife over the phone that he loved her, then go off to a gay orgy.
He made a terrible mistake by taking on the music directorship of the New York Philharmonic, whereas he could have been the American Offenbach. He made another terrible mistake by giving up the music directorship of the New York Philharmonic and becoming a globe-trotting celeb, making impossibly mannered and bloated recordings. His last two decades are a sad tale of destructive drinking, smoking, sex and bizarre behavior, a madman who thought he was Leonard Bernstein.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (BkEzK)
229
195 I'm still reading the Robert E. Howard collection of "El Borak" stories. The man was obviously enchanted with the idea of Afghanistan and Central Asia. The intro credits Talbot Mundy and Kipling (of course) as his inspirations, but I expect he was also a fan of Harold Lamb.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (78a2H)
Ah, I've read that one too. Nice to see some of the more obscure works getting some attention...In any case, pre-modern/early-modern Central Asia can be such a bizarre setting. Almost completely forgotten about by modern creatives; its simultaneously exotic, yet connected to just about everywhere. It's a place where almost anything you can imagine gets jumbled together into a single adventure.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:31 AM (78a2H)
Ah, I've read that one too. Nice to see some of the more obscure works getting some attention...In any case, pre-modern/early-modern Central Asia can be such a bizarre setting. Almost completely forgotten about by modern creatives; its simultaneously exotic, yet connected to just about everywhere. It's a place where almost anything you can imagine gets jumbled together into a single adventure.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (Lhaco)
230
219 +1 Leftists are insane. In different parts of their lives, of their souls, they reject reality.
Posted by: callsign claymore at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (+XASd)
231
The very idea that sane men in England with access to intelligence reports about the Luftwaffe and accurate data on the RAF could simply _assume_ a German invasion would succeed is utterly baffling. And that's not just hindsight: Churchill himself was baffled at the time by their attitude.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (78a2H)
---
The myth of Guernica being a terror bombing was sustained because everyone (but Franco) benefited from the lie. Hitler got instant military credibility with his potent new air weapons, Churchill could use that to demand aggressive confrontation and rearmament, and the pacifists used to it to argue against any war at all.
That's partly why it survives despite being completely discredited.
Anyhow, off to Mass. Thanks again, Perfesser!
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:38 AM (78a2H)
---
The myth of Guernica being a terror bombing was sustained because everyone (but Franco) benefited from the lie. Hitler got instant military credibility with his potent new air weapons, Churchill could use that to demand aggressive confrontation and rearmament, and the pacifists used to it to argue against any war at all.
That's partly why it survives despite being completely discredited.
Anyhow, off to Mass. Thanks again, Perfesser!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (llXky)
232
I miss OMNI and Mondo2000. Might need to take a visit to Barnes & Noble and see what the magazine landscape looks like these days.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (kpS4V)
233
224 ... " so much to read, so little time!"
That's been my lament for the better part of 70 years. And it's only getting worse. (Eyes a TBR pile about the height of the Empire State building.)
That's been my lament for the better part of 70 years. And it's only getting worse. (Eyes a TBR pile about the height of the Empire State building.)
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (zudum)
234
Great discussion, but gots to go and make my wife happy ... with chores completed.
Have a great week in reading.
Have a great week in reading.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (u82oZ)
235
Hitler was both cause and effect. Germany was highly unstable. It could have gone Communist instead of Fascist but it was going somewhere with momentous consequences. Back in the USSR, something wicked was sure to come.
How the USA would got involved was uncertain.
How the USA would got involved was uncertain.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 10:52 AM (nFx0I)
236
His last two decades are a sad tale of destructive drinking, smoking, sex and bizarre behavior, a madman who thought he was Leonard Bernstein.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (BkEzK)
I remember his Young People's Concert where he dissected songs of the Beatles. I thought it was cool.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (BkEzK)
I remember his Young People's Concert where he dissected songs of the Beatles. I thought it was cool.
Posted by: grammie winger - cheesehead at September 15, 2024 10:53 AM (SfhV1)
237
I read five, five, R.R. Martin books and he never finished a single story line. His style of writing a single chapter about a character and then single chapters about 4 other characters each with its own story arc before you find out what happened to the character four chapters earlier drove me crazy. The only good book is the first but once you get over the shock of his killing off his best characters Willy nilly, it's over.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 15, 2024 10:53 AM (t/2Uw)
238
I'm just going to say this: I think Picasso's "Guernica" painting is silly. You're trying to depict an atrocity so you . . . draw a cow? "Oh, no, the Fascists blew up a cow!" Panicked mooing sounds against the drone of Heinkel engines. Spanish peasant despairingly trying to call the cow to safety, then explosions and cowbell sounds. This is the stuff of comedy.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 10:55 AM (78a2H)
239
Now do without Kaiser Wilhelm II.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (u82oZ)
----
"The Kaiser inherited the royal reptilian-human hybrid bloodline of Queen Victoria. The Reptilian High Command was already planning ahead to Adolf Hitler, and they needed the Kaiser to set the stage." (p. 33)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 15, 2024 10:49 AM (u82oZ)
----
"The Kaiser inherited the royal reptilian-human hybrid bloodline of Queen Victoria. The Reptilian High Command was already planning ahead to Adolf Hitler, and they needed the Kaiser to set the stage." (p. 33)
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:56 AM (kpS4V)
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 15, 2024 10:57 AM (L/fGl)
241
I wonder if the Soviet Union would have lasted as long without a Great Patriotic War to unify the people behind Comrade Stalin? With no threat from N*zi Germany, they might have imploded a generation or two earlier, especially without the loot of eastern Europe to keep the system limping along.
==
I don't think Stalin's system would have imploded. He built a system with no dependence on the outside world.
North Korea type of society. Totally isolated and functioning with no one from outside able to influence at all. Stalin's USSR had a layer of elite - the scientists, the propagandists, who were well fed, wealthy, lived almost at Western standards, and who could keep things going. Not everyone was sitting in a Gulag. If anything, WWII, the "Great Patriotic War" precipitated the rise of anti-Stalinist communists who dismantled his cult after his death. In my opinion, if it was not for the war, Stalin 2.0 would have taken over, and things would have moved on.
==
I don't think Stalin's system would have imploded. He built a system with no dependence on the outside world.
North Korea type of society. Totally isolated and functioning with no one from outside able to influence at all. Stalin's USSR had a layer of elite - the scientists, the propagandists, who were well fed, wealthy, lived almost at Western standards, and who could keep things going. Not everyone was sitting in a Gulag. If anything, WWII, the "Great Patriotic War" precipitated the rise of anti-Stalinist communists who dismantled his cult after his death. In my opinion, if it was not for the war, Stalin 2.0 would have taken over, and things would have moved on.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:57 AM (V13WU)
242
*move on as before
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 10:57 AM (V13WU)
243
I have something lined up for next week that explains why he isn't able to finish this series...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:40 AM (zP09t)
A week or two ago, the YouTube show "Friday Night Tights" read out a mini-essay about Martin and his unfinished tale. The jist of the essay was that while Game of Thrones started as a low-fantasy tale of moral-relativity and everybody-is-bad bickering, the logic of the story (The looming White Walker threat) dictates that it evolve into a high-fantasy story of a true morally-pure hero uniting the people in an existential fight against unambiguous evil. Basically, that the end of Game of Thrones needs to be a repudiation of its beginning. That it needs to become a Lord of the Rings style story in order to have a satisfying ending. And since Martin can't handle that, the story is forever unfinished...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 10:40 AM (zP09t)
A week or two ago, the YouTube show "Friday Night Tights" read out a mini-essay about Martin and his unfinished tale. The jist of the essay was that while Game of Thrones started as a low-fantasy tale of moral-relativity and everybody-is-bad bickering, the logic of the story (The looming White Walker threat) dictates that it evolve into a high-fantasy story of a true morally-pure hero uniting the people in an existential fight against unambiguous evil. Basically, that the end of Game of Thrones needs to be a repudiation of its beginning. That it needs to become a Lord of the Rings style story in order to have a satisfying ending. And since Martin can't handle that, the story is forever unfinished...
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 10:58 AM (Lhaco)
244
Good morning Hordemates!
Posted by: Diogenes at September 15, 2024 10:58 AM (W/lyH)
245
Eris - so many magazines have died since the Internet came along. I used to get a magazine called "Monitoring Times" that focused on all things radio. I think they tried having an online version for a while, but it didn't last.
Posted by: PabloD at September 15, 2024 10:59 AM (ixVVY)
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:59 AM (kpS4V)
247
Kamala is the Meryl Streep of politics! She can do any accent!
https://is.gd/gzfFWt
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 15, 2024
***
Let's see her do Glaswegian.
https://is.gd/gzfFWt
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 15, 2024
***
Let's see her do Glaswegian.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:00 AM (omVj0)
248
Oh yeah i loved omni that where i saw the fist men in black strip
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:03 AM (PXvVL)
249
I miss OMNI and Mondo2000. Might need to take a visit to Barnes & Noble and see what the magazine landscape looks like these days.
As little as five years ago I must have subscribed to six or seven magazines. It’s currently down to two: Archaeology and The Claremont Review of Books.
The others have either gone (TSRA Sportsman), gone crazy (Biblical Archaeology Review), or turned into an expensive afterthought (QST).
I’m not sure what the Barnes & Noble magazine rack represents nowadays (my writers group, such as it is, meets at the B&N coffee shop). When I glance through them there are a few real magazines (mostly gun magazines) and a lot of things that look like what would have been one-off specials back in the day—a full shelf of Taylor Swift magazines, or a rack full of retrospectives on the Queen.
As little as five years ago I must have subscribed to six or seven magazines. It’s currently down to two: Archaeology and The Claremont Review of Books.
The others have either gone (TSRA Sportsman), gone crazy (Biblical Archaeology Review), or turned into an expensive afterthought (QST).
I’m not sure what the Barnes & Noble magazine rack represents nowadays (my writers group, such as it is, meets at the B&N coffee shop). When I glance through them there are a few real magazines (mostly gun magazines) and a lot of things that look like what would have been one-off specials back in the day—a full shelf of Taylor Swift magazines, or a rack full of retrospectives on the Queen.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 11:03 AM (olroh)
250
It's a "real" publishing house, but remember, prestige houses publish all sorts of crap too.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:34 AM (kpS4V)
Like, Dreams from my father, and The light we carry, you mean?
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:34 AM (kpS4V)
Like, Dreams from my father, and The light we carry, you mean?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:04 AM (0eaVi)
251
Talking about politics...
X has significantly cut into my reading time. I now understand how people get hooked. I keep checking to see who has commented on my posts and what is going on Right Now! It is almost as bad as being on the blog and all of a sudden we're talking movies or food or guns or medical advice,or...
X has significantly cut into my reading time. I now understand how people get hooked. I keep checking to see who has commented on my posts and what is going on Right Now! It is almost as bad as being on the blog and all of a sudden we're talking movies or food or guns or medical advice,or...
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 15, 2024 11:04 AM (t/2Uw)
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024 11:05 AM (olroh)
253
Trotsky never much interested me, though quite the Rabble Rouser was a dead-end along with his followers
Posted by: Skip at September 15, 2024 11:06 AM (fwDg9)
254
232 I miss OMNI and Mondo2000. Might need to take a visit to Barnes & Noble and see what the magazine landscape looks like these days.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (kpS4V)
OMNI and Games Magazine were well-read in our home in the 70s. Seems so long ago.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (kpS4V)
OMNI and Games Magazine were well-read in our home in the 70s. Seems so long ago.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 11:06 AM (OX9vb)
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 11:07 AM (BkEzK)
256
I’m not sure what the Barnes & Noble magazine rack represents nowadays (my writers group, such as it is, meets at the B&N coffee shop). When I glance through them there are a few real magazines (mostly gun magazines) and a lot of things that look like what would have been one-off specials back in the day—a full shelf of Taylor Swift magazines, or a rack full of retrospectives on the Queen.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
***
There are still a few gun and hunting magazines, though they are probably concealed behind more PC offerings on the racks, and automobile/sports car magazines. The British classic car ones are always fun, as is Mercedes Enthusiast. Whenever I flip through their latest, I come away with a strong desire to own a vintage MB again. (Ah, 420SEL [W126] sedan, I miss you yet.)
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
***
There are still a few gun and hunting magazines, though they are probably concealed behind more PC offerings on the racks, and automobile/sports car magazines. The British classic car ones are always fun, as is Mercedes Enthusiast. Whenever I flip through their latest, I come away with a strong desire to own a vintage MB again. (Ah, 420SEL [W126] sedan, I miss you yet.)
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:08 AM (omVj0)
257
Speaking of Reagan, go see it.
Posted by: Hokey Pokey at September 15, 2024 11:08 AM (QSrLX)
258
I think it was Lavrenti Beria(!) who said something along the lines of, 'compared to Lenin, Stalin was a humanitarian.'
(Don't know how to find the actual quote.)
(Don't know how to find the actual quote.)
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:09 AM (Epeb0)
259
Like, Dreams from my father, and The light we carry, you mean?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024
***
It's a good thing I've already had breakfast, or I'd lose my appetite.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024
***
It's a good thing I've already had breakfast, or I'd lose my appetite.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:10 AM (omVj0)
260
I miss OMNI and Mondo2000. Might need to take a visit to Barnes & Noble and see what the magazine landscape looks like these days.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (kpS4V)
Was in one a couple of weeks ago looking for a pocket sized dictionary for the kid. There was a long wall of magazines of various types. Few of interest to me, but I was surprised about the number of them.
Oh, and I bought the only paperback dictionary they had in the store. Weird.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:50 AM (kpS4V)
Was in one a couple of weeks ago looking for a pocket sized dictionary for the kid. There was a long wall of magazines of various types. Few of interest to me, but I was surprised about the number of them.
Oh, and I bought the only paperback dictionary they had in the store. Weird.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:11 AM (0eaVi)
261
Lenin could use an orange toupée .
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at September 15, 2024 11:13 AM (63Dwl)
262
I have to second the motion to read the Manchester biography of Churchill, "The Last Lion." Glorious read and Manchester has a novelist's eye for character-painting.
My father always wanted me to read it and I finally picked up his dog eared copy and oh my goodness, it was fascinating.
My father always wanted me to read it and I finally picked up his dog eared copy and oh my goodness, it was fascinating.
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:14 AM (Epeb0)
263
Let's see her do Glaswegian.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:00 AM (omVj0)
She already does drunk, Wolfus.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:00 AM (omVj0)
She already does drunk, Wolfus.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:14 AM (0eaVi)
264
Oh yeah i loved omni that where i saw the fist men in black strip
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:03 AM (PXvVL)
Uh, phrasing?
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:03 AM (PXvVL)
Uh, phrasing?
Posted by: Idaho Spudboy at September 15, 2024 11:14 AM (d2x8r)
265
I've seen a map of Edwardian Vienna that shows just how packed together historical figures were, living within blocks of one another before WW I. Crazy stuff.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (llXky)
Playwright/Screenwriter Tom Stoppard wrote a famous in its day comic play titled, "Travesties" that was centered around the fact that James Joyce, Tristan Tzara(the originator(?) of Dadaism), and Lenin were all in Vienna at the same time during WWI.
He structured the play around "The Importance of Being Ernest". It's a lot of fun, buuuuut his brand of loopy comedy, moral seriousness, and intellectual hijinks would never fly in these Midwitian Days of "Wicked". It was hit on Broadway, which I doubt could ever happen again.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:20 AM (llXky)
Playwright/Screenwriter Tom Stoppard wrote a famous in its day comic play titled, "Travesties" that was centered around the fact that James Joyce, Tristan Tzara(the originator(?) of Dadaism), and Lenin were all in Vienna at the same time during WWI.
He structured the play around "The Importance of Being Ernest". It's a lot of fun, buuuuut his brand of loopy comedy, moral seriousness, and intellectual hijinks would never fly in these Midwitian Days of "Wicked". It was hit on Broadway, which I doubt could ever happen again.
Posted by: naturalfake at September 15, 2024 11:15 AM (eDfFs)
266
Roberts is very good, but he is not the writer that Manchester is on Churchill.
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:15 AM (Epeb0)
267
It's a "real" publishing house, but remember, prestige houses publish all sorts of crap too.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:34 AM (kpS4V)
Like, Dreams from my father, and The light we carry, you mean?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:04 AM (0eaVi)
It kind of blows my mind, that once upon a time we all just accepted that douchebags in New York would decide what would and would not be available to read.
Posted by: All Hail Eris at September 15, 2024 10:34 AM (kpS4V)
Like, Dreams from my father, and The light we carry, you mean?
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:04 AM (0eaVi)
It kind of blows my mind, that once upon a time we all just accepted that douchebags in New York would decide what would and would not be available to read.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:15 AM (8tHGc)
268
The first frames of the series several years before the film around 93
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:16 AM (PXvVL)
269
>>>>a full shelf of Taylor Swift magazines, or a rack full of retrospectives on the Queen.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
------------------------
Full interview of Tucker Carlson with Megyn Kelly. Kelly eviscerating Taylor Swift and Tim Walz within the first 7 minutes.
https://nitter.privacydev.net/TuckerCarlson
or
https://tuckercarlson.com/megyn-kelly-tour
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 15, 2024
------------------------
Full interview of Tucker Carlson with Megyn Kelly. Kelly eviscerating Taylor Swift and Tim Walz within the first 7 minutes.
https://nitter.privacydev.net/TuckerCarlson
or
https://tuckercarlson.com/megyn-kelly-tour
Posted by: Braenyard at September 15, 2024 11:16 AM (qKe5f)
270
Lenin could use an orange toupée .
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at September 15, 2024 11:13 AM (63Dwl)
I'm particularly fond of the photo of him, sitting in his chair, wide eyed, unable to speak, and it's been rather strongly rumored that Stalin was having him poisoned, and he could do nothing to stop it.
Posted by: Bertram Cabot, Jr. at September 15, 2024 11:13 AM (63Dwl)
I'm particularly fond of the photo of him, sitting in his chair, wide eyed, unable to speak, and it's been rather strongly rumored that Stalin was having him poisoned, and he could do nothing to stop it.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:17 AM (8tHGc)
271
What if Guernica had been about cats?
They're bombing the dogs
(whoa whoa wa whoa)
They're bombing the cats
(meow meow ma meow)
They're bombing the pets
Of the people that live theeerrre
They're bombing the dogs
(whoa whoa wa whoa)
They're bombing the cats
(meow meow ma meow)
They're bombing the pets
Of the people that live theeerrre
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 11:18 AM (/y8xj)
Posted by: Rex B at September 15, 2024 11:19 AM (592Pr)
273
(Don't know how to find the actual quote.)
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:09 AM (Epeb0)
Not Beria. Vyacheslav Molotov - "compared to Lenin, Stalin was a mere lamb."
I tend to agree. Had Lenin lived longer, I have no doubts he'd have done as bad or worse. He was a true monster with a twisted soul. I'm not sure anyone has ever possessed his capacity for hatred. It was truly infernal.
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:09 AM (Epeb0)
Not Beria. Vyacheslav Molotov - "compared to Lenin, Stalin was a mere lamb."
I tend to agree. Had Lenin lived longer, I have no doubts he'd have done as bad or worse. He was a true monster with a twisted soul. I'm not sure anyone has ever possessed his capacity for hatred. It was truly infernal.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 15, 2024 11:20 AM (0FoWg)
274
As said last week thought I was done with the Bolsheviks and found a big biography of Churchill but saw thus Katyn book on the way out so got it too.
Posted by: Skip at September 15, 2024 11:21 AM (fwDg9)
275
It kind of blows my mind, that once upon a time we all just accepted that douchebags in New York would decide what would and would not be available to read.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:15 AM (8tHGc)
But the founders of the houses weren't. As far as I can tell. Remember, Bennett Cerf published Rand's book and caught a lot a flak for it. He didn't care if someone didn't have the same views that he did. He cared about publishing books.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:15 AM (8tHGc)
But the founders of the houses weren't. As far as I can tell. Remember, Bennett Cerf published Rand's book and caught a lot a flak for it. He didn't care if someone didn't have the same views that he did. He cared about publishing books.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:21 AM (0eaVi)
276
Basically, that the end of Game of Thrones needs to be a repudiation of its beginning. That it needs to become a Lord of the Rings style story in order to have a satisfying ending. And since Martin can't handle that, the story is forever unfinished...
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 10:58 AM (Lhaco)
What a lot of show watchers won't know, is that the last book ends with Jon Snow, bleeding out, dying in the snow.
When the show came back after that, for its first season that was not following the book, he was quickly revived by the witch, and the show was complete trash ever since.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 10:58 AM (Lhaco)
What a lot of show watchers won't know, is that the last book ends with Jon Snow, bleeding out, dying in the snow.
When the show came back after that, for its first season that was not following the book, he was quickly revived by the witch, and the show was complete trash ever since.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:23 AM (+v1tm)
277
Comparing Lenin, Stalin, and Trotsky is a bit futile, their philosophies by design were inhuman. Stalin had more time to put inhumanity into practice.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 11:23 AM (1QGUf)
278
Well, in fairness, it was a larger and somewhat more ideologically diverse pool of New York douchebags running publishing in the old days.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:24 AM (78a2H)
279
I'm not sure anyone has ever possessed his capacity for hatred. It was truly infernal.
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 15, 2024 11:20 AM (0FoWg)
You don't get around much, do you?
Posted by: Yudhishthira's Dice at September 15, 2024 11:20 AM (0FoWg)
You don't get around much, do you?
Posted by: WEF, DNC, Various Gov'ts... at September 15, 2024 11:25 AM (0eaVi)
280
I've seen a map of Edwardian Vienna that shows just how packed together historical figures were, living within blocks of one another before WW I. Crazy stuff.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
There is a good book about Vienna just before WWI, Thunder At Twilight by Morton Frederic.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd
There is a good book about Vienna just before WWI, Thunder At Twilight by Morton Frederic.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (L/fGl)
281
Interesting details about Churchill. He was in some battles in Afghanistan and the soldiers said he was stunningly courageous. At one point he went over a wall in the face of enemy fire to pick up and carry a wounded British soldier back to safety. He also rode in the last cavalry charge of the British Empire in the Sudan against the Mahdi. So he had seen battle and bloodshed firsthand.
Posted by: Beverly at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (Epeb0)
282
I'm really out of the world of periodicals. The few that interest me are niche matters like wood carving or Backwoodsman. Didn't even realize that Playboy, at least in a paper copy, is no longer published. I assume National Geographic still has spectacular photography but it is so politically correct I haven't bothered with it for many years.
Posted by: JTB at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (zudum)
283
Well, in fairness, it was a larger and somewhat more ideologically diverse pool of New York douchebags running publishing in the old days.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
With editors who were willing to help an author along if they thought he had real talent or his work was important. See Maxwell Perkins with Thomas Wolfe.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
With editors who were willing to help an author along if they thought he had real talent or his work was important. See Maxwell Perkins with Thomas Wolfe.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (omVj0)
284
There is a good book about Vienna just before WWI, Thunder At Twilight by Morton Frederic.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice!
_________
*polite cough*
Frederic Morton
There is a good book about Vienna just before WWI, Thunder At Twilight by Morton Frederic.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice!
_________
*polite cough*
Frederic Morton
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 11:28 AM (BkEzK)
285
But the founders of the houses weren't. As far as I can tell. Remember, Bennett Cerf published Rand's book and caught a lot a flak for it. He didn't care if someone didn't have the same views that he did. He cared about publishing books.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:21 AM (0eaVi)
How far back do you have to go to find integrity in the publishing business?
What thoughts never got out, because nobody would give them room to be seen/heard?
Point being, today the elites are freaking out because people can share ideas, without them controlling the scope of what is and is not acceptable. Even the so-called conservatives of that age, you weren't allowed to stray too far off the reservation, and even if you DID get published, there were people like Buckley deigning to decide you weren't worth being considered.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:21 AM (0eaVi)
How far back do you have to go to find integrity in the publishing business?
What thoughts never got out, because nobody would give them room to be seen/heard?
Point being, today the elites are freaking out because people can share ideas, without them controlling the scope of what is and is not acceptable. Even the so-called conservatives of that age, you weren't allowed to stray too far off the reservation, and even if you DID get published, there were people like Buckley deigning to decide you weren't worth being considered.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:28 AM (u/Bbx)
286
I'm reading Five Families by Selby Raab.
Historical accounts of the Mafia.
Which doesn't really exist as everyone knows.
Historical accounts of the Mafia.
Which doesn't really exist as everyone knows.
Posted by: gourmand du jour at September 15, 2024 11:29 AM (MeG8a)
287
*polite cough*
Frederic Morton
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh
Six of one, half a dozen of the other.
Frederic Morton
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh
Six of one, half a dozen of the other.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Now With Pumpkin Spice! at September 15, 2024 11:30 AM (L/fGl)
288
Well, in fairness, it was a larger and somewhat more ideologically diverse pool of New York douchebags running publishing in the old days.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
With editors who were willing to help an author along if they thought he had real talent or his work was important. See Maxwell Perkins with Thomas Wolfe.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (omVj0)
It was still being controlled. We think that's normal, because it's what was, but it's not. I know people wanted to believe there was some meritocracy in the publishing world, but of course there wasn't! You had somebody decided what had merit, and what did not, and frankly, the death of that couldn't come fast enough.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024
***
With editors who were willing to help an author along if they thought he had real talent or his work was important. See Maxwell Perkins with Thomas Wolfe.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 15, 2024 11:26 AM (omVj0)
It was still being controlled. We think that's normal, because it's what was, but it's not. I know people wanted to believe there was some meritocracy in the publishing world, but of course there wasn't! You had somebody decided what had merit, and what did not, and frankly, the death of that couldn't come fast enough.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:31 AM (u/Bbx)
289
Theyve diversified like the 150 ones in marbella russian chechen bosnian moroccan triad mexican
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:32 AM (PXvVL)
290
*sorry for all the typos and grammatical mistakes..not proofreading as I should ...I blame the other tabs I have open !
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 11:32 AM (V13WU)
291
How far back do you have to go to find integrity in the publishing business?
What thoughts never got out, because nobody would give them room to be seen/heard?
Point being, today the elites are freaking out because people can share ideas, without them controlling the scope of what is and is not acceptable. Even the so-called conservatives of that age, you weren't allowed to stray too far off the reservation, and even if you DID get published, there were people like Buckley deigning to decide you weren't worth being considered.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:28 AM (u/Bbx)
Well, Cerf died in 1971, so at least back that far.
There's always someone wanting to keep something out of the public's view. It seems at least that now, they're having a harder time doing it. Indie publishing is going around their blockade, same with X and other outlets. Not enough, but at least some things are starting to get out to be able to keep the public informed.
What thoughts never got out, because nobody would give them room to be seen/heard?
Point being, today the elites are freaking out because people can share ideas, without them controlling the scope of what is and is not acceptable. Even the so-called conservatives of that age, you weren't allowed to stray too far off the reservation, and even if you DID get published, there were people like Buckley deigning to decide you weren't worth being considered.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:28 AM (u/Bbx)
Well, Cerf died in 1971, so at least back that far.
There's always someone wanting to keep something out of the public's view. It seems at least that now, they're having a harder time doing it. Indie publishing is going around their blockade, same with X and other outlets. Not enough, but at least some things are starting to get out to be able to keep the public informed.
Posted by: WEF, DNC, Various Gov'ts... at September 15, 2024 11:33 AM (0eaVi)
292
Comparing Lenin, Stalin, and Trotsky is a bit futile, their philosophies by design were inhuman. Stalin had more time to put inhumanity into practice.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 11:23 AM (1QGUf)
Lenin = Biden
Stalin = Harris
RFK Jr = Trotsky
How much success you have might depend on how young you are... and how willing you are to kill off your rivals.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 11:23 AM (1QGUf)
Lenin = Biden
Stalin = Harris
RFK Jr = Trotsky
How much success you have might depend on how young you are... and how willing you are to kill off your rivals.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:34 AM (u/Bbx)
293
*sorry for all the typos and grammatical mistakes..not proofreading as I should ...I blame the other tabs I have open !
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 11:32 AM (V13WU)
Psst. It's the big publishing houses.
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 11:32 AM (V13WU)
Psst. It's the big publishing houses.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 11:34 AM (0eaVi)
294
I think the ideological bias in publishing makes use of Sturgeon's Law (90% of everything is garbage). If you're a lefty publisher, you can publish the best 10 percent of Lefty stuff. Meanwhile the best 10 percent of self-published conservative stuff is out there on Amazon, indistinguishable from the 90 percent garbage.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:37 AM (78a2H)
295
There's always someone wanting to keep something out of the public's view. It seems at least that now, they're having a harder time doing it. Indie publishing is going around their blockade, same with X and other outlets. Not enough, but at least some things are starting to get out to be able to keep the public informed.
Posted by: WEF, DNC, Various Gov'ts... at September 15, 2024 11:33 AM (0eaVi)
As has been said many times in other contexts, you don't hate them enough.
The same should be said of the gatekeepers of ideas. Maybe even moreso than the babbling jackasses of teevee, and the nitwits of newsprint.
Posted by: WEF, DNC, Various Gov'ts... at September 15, 2024 11:33 AM (0eaVi)
As has been said many times in other contexts, you don't hate them enough.
The same should be said of the gatekeepers of ideas. Maybe even moreso than the babbling jackasses of teevee, and the nitwits of newsprint.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:38 AM (u/Bbx)
296
>>With editors who were willing to help an author along if they thought he had real talent or his work was important. See Maxwell Perkins with Thomas Wolfe.
I used to race on a boat that was owned by an editor and then senior exec at Norton. We were discussing some of the books he helped get published and one of his favorites was from a British author who wrote a sailing adventure based on the exploits of a British commander in the late 1700 - 1800s. Nobody in America wanted to touch it after the initial book received lukewarm acceptance in the US.
Norton pushed it and its sequels. Did pretty well. Even made a movie from the series.
I used to race on a boat that was owned by an editor and then senior exec at Norton. We were discussing some of the books he helped get published and one of his favorites was from a British author who wrote a sailing adventure based on the exploits of a British commander in the late 1700 - 1800s. Nobody in America wanted to touch it after the initial book received lukewarm acceptance in the US.
Norton pushed it and its sequels. Did pretty well. Even made a movie from the series.
Posted by: JackStraw at September 15, 2024 11:40 AM (LkLld)
297
Woo hoo. I finished LOTR. The ending tied it all together and even made me think I might want to re-read it someday. I then quickly read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugh - trash unless you love lesbian-ish story lines with too much detail and a bunch of proudly unredeemable characters. Do Not recommend.
Next up for me is Sniper in the Tower by Gary Laverne. Hubby read it in a weekend and highly reecomended.
Next up for me is Sniper in the Tower by Gary Laverne. Hubby read it in a weekend and highly reecomended.
Posted by: LASue at September 15, 2024 11:40 AM (lCppi)
298
289, I have done the five families, I would like to read about Marbella though.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 11:42 AM (1QGUf)
299
About Churchill's physical courage a good book is "Hero of the Empire: The Boer War, a Daring Escape, and the Making of Winston Churchill" by Candice Millard. Churchill went to South Africa to cover the Boer War as a war correspondent and, of course, immediate got into the thick of things. It's a amazing and riveting story. I think I heard about it on a previous book thread. Highly recommended.
Posted by: Art Rondelet of Malmsey at September 15, 2024 11:43 AM (FEVMW)
300
Can't recall who said that freedom of the press belongs to those that own the press.
Now with indie publishing options, anybody can own the press. Cool. But then comes the Sturgeon's Law wrinkle, and how do you find that 10% gold in the mountain of meh? Especially when so many reviews these days may be bogus?
Trusted review outlets? And we start edging back toward having gatekeepers of a sort.
Is a puzzlement...
Now with indie publishing options, anybody can own the press. Cool. But then comes the Sturgeon's Law wrinkle, and how do you find that 10% gold in the mountain of meh? Especially when so many reviews these days may be bogus?
Trusted review outlets? And we start edging back toward having gatekeepers of a sort.
Is a puzzlement...
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 11:45 AM (q3u5l)
301
I think the ideological bias in publishing makes use of Sturgeon's Law (90% of everything is garbage). If you're a lefty publisher, you can publish the best 10 percent of Lefty stuff. Meanwhile the best 10 percent of self-published conservative stuff is out there on Amazon, indistinguishable from the 90 percent garbage.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:37 AM (78a2H)
Who decides he 10 and 90?
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:37 AM (78a2H)
Who decides he 10 and 90?
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 11:45 AM (/m4e3)
302
Read gomez jurado black wolf
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:46 AM (PXvVL)
303
Piicked up that one ny millard recently
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:47 AM (PXvVL)
304
Robert Giroux was an editor / publisher. Without him we’d never have heard of Orwell. On the other side of the ledger he gave us JD Salinger and Catcher in the Rye
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 11:47 AM (MUxmT)
305
Professor,
I am doing the same regarding the Pendergast books. Realized I better re read Leng before Angel.
Hope the books have a good and interesting resolution.
I am doing the same regarding the Pendergast books. Realized I better re read Leng before Angel.
Hope the books have a good and interesting resolution.
Posted by: Paisley at September 15, 2024 11:49 AM (A44Mw)
306
By millard. Queen of the south had short jaunt to marbella
Posted by: Miguel cervantes at September 15, 2024 11:50 AM (PXvVL)
307
Well, off to do some intensive nothing and to annoy the cat.
Thanks for the thread, Perfessor.
Have a good one, gang.
Thanks for the thread, Perfessor.
Have a good one, gang.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 11:50 AM (q3u5l)
308
Well, off to do some intensive nothing and to annoy the cat.
Thanks for the thread, Perfessor.
Have a good one, gang.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 11:50 AM (q3u5l)
---
And we never heard from Just Some Guy ever again...
Thanks for the thread, Perfessor.
Have a good one, gang.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 15, 2024 11:50 AM (q3u5l)
---
And we never heard from Just Some Guy ever again...
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 15, 2024 11:54 AM (zP09t)
309
302, cool I will check that out. I spent a short time in that area Marbella and Puerta Banus years ago. I saw the massive yachts and many Russians, some were probably not totally legit. I will go for the book Rocco, thanks.
Posted by: Verlan at September 15, 2024 11:55 AM (1QGUf)
310
Unlike some, I am a 1 book at a time person, Churchill next after this one
Posted by: Skip at September 15, 2024 11:55 AM (fwDg9)
311
Robert Giroux was an editor / publisher. Without him we’d never have heard of Orwell. On the other side of the ledger he gave us JD Salinger and Catcher in the Rye
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 11:47 AM (MUxmT)
Nobody bats a thousand, buuuuuuut-
time acts as a pretty good filter.
F'rinstance Kurt Vonnegut was considered a great just 10 years ago but now, he appears to be fading fast.
If HS teachers didn't assign "Slaughterhouse 5" any longer, would people even talk about him who weren't his 29 year old fans?
On the flip side, politics is a reliably lousy filter. With writers being suppressed and canceled because of their race, religion, politics, etc.
And has made recommendations by "experts" impossible to take seriously.
Posted by: Ignoramus at September 15, 2024 11:47 AM (MUxmT)
Nobody bats a thousand, buuuuuuut-
time acts as a pretty good filter.
F'rinstance Kurt Vonnegut was considered a great just 10 years ago but now, he appears to be fading fast.
If HS teachers didn't assign "Slaughterhouse 5" any longer, would people even talk about him who weren't his 29 year old fans?
On the flip side, politics is a reliably lousy filter. With writers being suppressed and canceled because of their race, religion, politics, etc.
And has made recommendations by "experts" impossible to take seriously.
Posted by: naturalfake at September 15, 2024 11:55 AM (eDfFs)
312
Burt: you misunderstand. Differences in quality exist, and are real. If you're going to go all "that's just your opinion" then I can tell you've never read the slush pile for a magazine or publisher. There is a LOT of garbage out there.
Some of that garbage is written by people you disagree with, and some by people you agree with. The bias in publishing lets them skim off the best 10 percent of what they agree with, but the 10 percent that you agree with is left to the indy publishing market, where it is swamped by the 90 percent that you agree with, but is also garbage.
Some of that garbage is written by people you disagree with, and some by people you agree with. The bias in publishing lets them skim off the best 10 percent of what they agree with, but the 10 percent that you agree with is left to the indy publishing market, where it is swamped by the 90 percent that you agree with, but is also garbage.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:56 AM (78a2H)
313
F'rinstance Kurt Vonnegut was considered a great just 10 years ago but now, he appears to be fading fast.
____________
How many of those 60s-70s authors (Vonnegut, Heller, Updike, Cheever, Condon, etc.) stand up today? Damn few, I reckon.
F'rinstance Kurt Vonnegut was considered a great just 10 years ago but now, he appears to be fading fast.
____________
How many of those 60s-70s authors (Vonnegut, Heller, Updike, Cheever, Condon, etc.) stand up today? Damn few, I reckon.
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (BkEzK)
Posted by: runner at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (V13WU)
315
...how do you find that 10% gold in the mountain of meh?
I have no good answer but here are a couple of partial ones. First, recommendations from people whom you know generally like what you like, for example this thread. Second, a lot of electronic sources have some kind of preview feature. Third, and related to the second, if you start reading something and don't like it, stop! You don't owe the book or the author any obligation for a second chance.
I have no good answer but here are a couple of partial ones. First, recommendations from people whom you know generally like what you like, for example this thread. Second, a lot of electronic sources have some kind of preview feature. Third, and related to the second, if you start reading something and don't like it, stop! You don't owe the book or the author any obligation for a second chance.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (/y8xj)
316
The saddest part of Sunday morning is here again. The end of the Book Thread. Thanks, Perfessor.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (0eaVi)
317
316 The saddest part of Sunday morning is here again.
Setting the bar for the food and gun threads. Bring it, CBD and Weasel!
Setting the bar for the food and gun threads. Bring it, CBD and Weasel!
Posted by: Oddbob at September 15, 2024 12:05 PM (/y8xj)
318
The author has said a Stalinist thought this should put a end of the Bolsheviks but he didn't get to see our Cultural Marxists were ready to have another go at it.
This.
Any social and political philosophy based on greed and envy will always find an audience.
This.
Any social and political philosophy based on greed and envy will always find an audience.
Posted by: Diogenes at September 15, 2024 12:06 PM (W/lyH)
Posted by: Hadrian the Seventh at September 15, 2024 12:07 PM (BkEzK)
320
Last!
Posted by: Diogenes at September 15, 2024 12:07 PM (W/lyH)
321
45
'..., burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.'
And I despise them for it. Not the stupidity. That's a problem with their brains. But because they obstruct and prosecute our side for trying to stop the invaders. That's pure malice.
'..., burns your churches and rapes your women, you're supposed to welcome them with joy.
We live in a truly stupid age.'
And I despise them for it. Not the stupidity. That's a problem with their brains. But because they obstruct and prosecute our side for trying to stop the invaders. That's pure malice.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 15, 2024 12:07 PM (3wi/L)
322
Burt: you misunderstand...
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:56 AM (78a2H)
I understand you perfectly. And you're making my point for me.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 15, 2024 11:56 AM (78a2H)
I understand you perfectly. And you're making my point for me.
Posted by: BurtTC at September 15, 2024 12:08 PM (XukPJ)
323
316 The saddest part of Sunday morning is here again. The end of the Book Thread. Thanks, Perfessor.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (0eaVi)
Yep. Dog food ain't gonna cook itself. Better get busy. Later, horde.
Posted by: OrangeEnt at September 15, 2024 12:01 PM (0eaVi)
Yep. Dog food ain't gonna cook itself. Better get busy. Later, horde.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! Catz for Trump! at September 15, 2024 12:09 PM (OX9vb)
324
We do have a
NOOD
NOOD
Posted by: Skip at September 15, 2024 12:10 PM (fwDg9)
325
98
'why a very advanced, well trained force like the German land forces failed.'
Advanced. But not in logistics. They didn't give the colossal undeveloped spaces of the USSR the respect it deserved and they ran out of supplies right when they needed them most.
The U.S. in contrast was mid tier in military operations but absolute geniuses in logistics.
'why a very advanced, well trained force like the German land forces failed.'
Advanced. But not in logistics. They didn't give the colossal undeveloped spaces of the USSR the respect it deserved and they ran out of supplies right when they needed them most.
The U.S. in contrast was mid tier in military operations but absolute geniuses in logistics.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 15, 2024 12:23 PM (3wi/L)
326
Oh should have asked earlier- been thinking of reading some books written by Pope Benedict XVI
What's a good book to start with?
What's a good book to start with?
Posted by: vmom stabby stabby stabby stabby stabamillion at September 15, 2024 12:34 PM (Ydd86)
327
170
'So I decided to download the ebook from the library. I am 354th in line.'
What a coincidence. I am in line for the very same on Libby. You might download the Libby app to your phone. The queues for books are shorter.
'So I decided to download the ebook from the library. I am 354th in line.'
What a coincidence. I am in line for the very same on Libby. You might download the Libby app to your phone. The queues for books are shorter.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 15, 2024 12:39 PM (3wi/L)
328
I'm hundreds of comments late but just want to add in one more recommendation for Foucault's Pendulum. Love that book and have read it at least 3 times.
Posted by: who knew at September 15, 2024 12:40 PM (+ViXu)
329
"Burma Sahib" by Paul Theroux
His new novel, based on George Orwell's (Eric Blair) 5 years in Burma immediately after Blair graduated from Eton.
Blair was a police administrator in Burma, which he later described as "the sharp end of the British empire."
Theroux did a truly extraordinary amount of research before he wrote this novel.
I thought the novel was fascinating. I haven't read a novel in 5-10 years, but this one grabbed my attention.
His new novel, based on George Orwell's (Eric Blair) 5 years in Burma immediately after Blair graduated from Eton.
Blair was a police administrator in Burma, which he later described as "the sharp end of the British empire."
Theroux did a truly extraordinary amount of research before he wrote this novel.
I thought the novel was fascinating. I haven't read a novel in 5-10 years, but this one grabbed my attention.
Posted by: mnw at September 15, 2024 12:47 PM (NLIak)
330
Late to the thread, but here 'tis:
John Van Stry has released a novella (95 pages) in his "Portals of Infinity" series entitled "Nikki's Origins". This tells the story of William's sister Nikki becoming a Champion in her own right for the Goddess Aryanna of the Hillshire sphere/reality.
The story takes place around PoI book 3 (Of Temples and Trials).
It's an enjoyable little novella, and gives us a view of some of the events from that time in the series from a different MC's perspective. Think of it as a unique small side-dish that goes with a great meal.
John Van Stry has released a novella (95 pages) in his "Portals of Infinity" series entitled "Nikki's Origins". This tells the story of William's sister Nikki becoming a Champion in her own right for the Goddess Aryanna of the Hillshire sphere/reality.
The story takes place around PoI book 3 (Of Temples and Trials).
It's an enjoyable little novella, and gives us a view of some of the events from that time in the series from a different MC's perspective. Think of it as a unique small side-dish that goes with a great meal.
Posted by: Grumpy and Recalcitrant at September 15, 2024 01:04 PM (O7YUW)
331
To that end, he recognized Hitler was bad news, and also that firm opposition would result in his political defeat. It is not possible to dispute that French irresolution and British cowardice over the Rhineland encouraged Hitlerite aggressor, nor can one argue that Britain's decision condemn Mussolini over Ethiopia while doing nothing substantive to stop him was the worst posssible choice.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (llXky)
By 1933, Churchill was in the political wilderness, without a ministerial office, and the position of PM was out of reach. All he could do was warn Britons of impending war against dictators. And the British people wanted nothing to do with Churchill, not even his own party. In fact the Oxford Union's "King and Country" debate ended with a vote in the affirmative to the proposal l ‘that this House will in no circumstances fight for its King and Country’.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 15, 2024 09:33 AM (llXky)
By 1933, Churchill was in the political wilderness, without a ministerial office, and the position of PM was out of reach. All he could do was warn Britons of impending war against dictators. And the British people wanted nothing to do with Churchill, not even his own party. In fact the Oxford Union's "King and Country" debate ended with a vote in the affirmative to the proposal l ‘that this House will in no circumstances fight for its King and Country’.
Posted by: mrp at September 15, 2024 01:07 PM (rj6Yv)
332
325
The U.S. in contrast was mid tier in military operations but absolute geniuses in logistics.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 15, 2024 12:23 PM (3wi/L)
As an afterthought to the thread, and taking an example from fiction, one of the last of Harold Lamb's Cossack stories, "The Two Swords of Gengis Khan," is set in WWII and features an old horseman has left the eastern front for the central Asian interior. There, he meets up with a small group of Americans who were trying to link up with the Russians by coming up through China, but had gotten waylaid. The Cossack agreed to guide them to an airbase, despite the Americans having only a vague idea of where it should be, and him having no idea at all. The Cossack's real goal was to lead them into the mountains, and then steal their liquor when they got distracted or gave up. To his dismay, the Americans did neither, and somehow they kept finding ways to haul/winch their jeep and troop truck up and over the mountains surrounding the Gobi Desert, inadvertently mapping the Kurdai-Luntai route from China to the USSR. I don't think it was a true story, but the spirit of the Americans in the story really rang true.
The U.S. in contrast was mid tier in military operations but absolute geniuses in logistics.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 15, 2024 12:23 PM (3wi/L)
As an afterthought to the thread, and taking an example from fiction, one of the last of Harold Lamb's Cossack stories, "The Two Swords of Gengis Khan," is set in WWII and features an old horseman has left the eastern front for the central Asian interior. There, he meets up with a small group of Americans who were trying to link up with the Russians by coming up through China, but had gotten waylaid. The Cossack agreed to guide them to an airbase, despite the Americans having only a vague idea of where it should be, and him having no idea at all. The Cossack's real goal was to lead them into the mountains, and then steal their liquor when they got distracted or gave up. To his dismay, the Americans did neither, and somehow they kept finding ways to haul/winch their jeep and troop truck up and over the mountains surrounding the Gobi Desert, inadvertently mapping the Kurdai-Luntai route from China to the USSR. I don't think it was a true story, but the spirit of the Americans in the story really rang true.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 15, 2024 01:25 PM (Lhaco)
333
Way late (I am, mostly, all the time- late riser, MST, etc), but here's a book-related observation:
I mentioned awhile back that I had decide to re-read all of my Matt Helm books. To that end, I put them all on one shelf of one bookcase.
The contrast in book sizes is striking. The first 11 books were Gold Medal, and are about a half inch thick each. 12 through 18 are Fawcett, and are a little thicker, but 19 -27, while still Fawcett are dramatically thicker.
Just to check, I pulled out the calipers. #2 _The Wrecking Crew_ is a half inch thick, while #26 _The Frighteners_ is almost double at 0.91". 1960 vs 1987. There may be a point difference in font size, but the major contribution seems to be line spacing, which is doubled in the newer books.
Was vision getting much worse, or just paperbacks acquiring a level of respectability that the audience was a little more affluent, or general affluence, such that readers were willing to pay for more paper?
Today's paperbacks have increased the other dimensions, to, IMNSHO, no good effect. It's definitely screwed up my bookcase shelf spacing.
I mentioned awhile back that I had decide to re-read all of my Matt Helm books. To that end, I put them all on one shelf of one bookcase.
The contrast in book sizes is striking. The first 11 books were Gold Medal, and are about a half inch thick each. 12 through 18 are Fawcett, and are a little thicker, but 19 -27, while still Fawcett are dramatically thicker.
Just to check, I pulled out the calipers. #2 _The Wrecking Crew_ is a half inch thick, while #26 _The Frighteners_ is almost double at 0.91". 1960 vs 1987. There may be a point difference in font size, but the major contribution seems to be line spacing, which is doubled in the newer books.
Was vision getting much worse, or just paperbacks acquiring a level of respectability that the audience was a little more affluent, or general affluence, such that readers were willing to pay for more paper?
Today's paperbacks have increased the other dimensions, to, IMNSHO, no good effect. It's definitely screwed up my bookcase shelf spacing.
Posted by: buddhaha at September 15, 2024 10:15 PM (lRRDM)
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