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Reading Thread 9/14/2025
I have again shamed my ancestors. Last week I wrote The Adventures of Tom Sawyer was published in 1846. WRONG! Fortunately, sharp-eyed commenter James Braden caught and corrected my error near the end of the comments.
I don't know if this correction was already made in the nearly 400 previous comments, but Samuel Clemens aka Mark Twain published "Tom Sawyer" in 1876, not 1846. Clemens was only eleven years old in 1846. Posted by: James Braden at September 07, 2025 01:42 PM (dKpV9)Thanks James Braden! Before posting I recall thinking that 1846 seemed sort of early for publication, but didn't bother to follow up. Appreciate it! Anyhoo, feel free to discuss reading and books in general and share your thoughts on this week's selection if you're so inclined. I know you're just as excited as I am, so just jump below the fold to get started!
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Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Happy Sunday
Posted by: r hennigantx at September 14, 2025 09:00 AM (gbOdA)
2
Tolle Lege
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 09:00 AM (+qU29)
3
Bible Study Corner With Chuck Todd.
Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. Choose wisely. Don’t let the algorithms fool you, in the real world, folks choose grace.
Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. Choose wisely. Don’t let the algorithms fool you, in the real world, folks choose grace.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:01 AM (L/fGl)
4
First?
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:01 AM (omVj0)
5
Gave up after twenty five pages of Lord of the Rings.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger at September 14, 2025 09:02 AM (DTBr0)
6
1/3 the way through Rick Atkinson's The British are Coming, certainly picking up a lot on the American Revolution 1775-1777 I didn't know
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 09:02 AM (+qU29)
7
I'm well into the title bout of "The Osterman Weekend." My lands, Robby Ludlum surely do love his exclamation points.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:03 AM (p/isN)
8
Project Gutenburg and Librivox. Nothing else needed for non-paper.
Posted by: Biff Pocoroba at September 14, 2025 09:04 AM (XvL8K)
9
I read Huckleberry Finn when I was in high school. That was a long time ago.
Posted by: dantesed at September 14, 2025 09:05 AM (Oy/m2)
10
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
====
I have tried to read Bari Weiss' Fighting Antisemitism twice but stopped at the same place twice, where she is shamelessly partisan and incorrectly critical of Trump.
====
I have tried to read Bari Weiss' Fighting Antisemitism twice but stopped at the same place twice, where she is shamelessly partisan and incorrectly critical of Trump.
Posted by: San Franpsycho at September 14, 2025 09:06 AM (RIvkX)
11
I have a general rule that if a book doesn't engage me by the time I've finished 20% or so, then it's probably not worth finishing.
Though there are exceptions. I've abandoned books before the end of the first chapter because I could see where it was going and didn't want to read any more.
Though there are exceptions. I've abandoned books before the end of the first chapter because I could see where it was going and didn't want to read any more.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 14, 2025 09:06 AM (IBQGV)
12
Too busy writing to read this week.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:06 AM (78a2H)
13
I read Dark Horse, the seventh book in the Orphan X series, by Gregg Hurwitz. Evan Smaok, Orphan X, takes on an American drug dealer as a client to return his daughter who has been kidnapped by a Mexican cartel. All isn't as it seems to be which complicates X's success; but succeed he does (you knew he would) in another action thriller.
Posted by: Zoltan at September 14, 2025 09:07 AM (VOrDg)
14
Today's Question: "Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?"
_____________________________________________
I'll usually read a book completely - unless it's mired in its own linguistic offal by the time I get to Ch 3 or (in some cases) mid-book. If it hasn't improved by then, well, that's why God made the Goodwill Contributions Center …
_____________________________________________
I'll usually read a book completely - unless it's mired in its own linguistic offal by the time I get to Ch 3 or (in some cases) mid-book. If it hasn't improved by then, well, that's why God made the Goodwill Contributions Center …
Posted by: Dr_No at September 14, 2025 09:07 AM (ayRl+)
15
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
====
If it's on Amazon, I read the free excerpt first.
====
If it's on Amazon, I read the free excerpt first.
Posted by: Biff Pocoroba at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (XvL8K)
16
Rereading some SF short stories, like Issac Asimov's I Robot and The Rest of the Robots.
In the later collection the story Galley Slave refers to a proofreading robot. The villain of the story becomes very anti-robot because he sees robots taking over more and more of the creation of new things.
First, galley proofs of books, then collection of data, eventually making conclusions.
It is the first warning to AI I have read.
In the later collection the story Galley Slave refers to a proofreading robot. The villain of the story becomes very anti-robot because he sees robots taking over more and more of the creation of new things.
First, galley proofs of books, then collection of data, eventually making conclusions.
It is the first warning to AI I have read.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (u82oZ)
17
I don't read a book that isn't interesting or entertaining. Same wit movies. Life is too short to suffer crap.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (mFSH6)
18
I bailed three times on "The Dogs of War." Not because I was bored; I loved what I had read. I would reread the first part, shelve the book, pick it up months later, start over, quit at the same place. Again and again. Finally forced myself to proceed. Great book.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (p/isN)
19
As I said last week, I'm glad I gave up on Don Quixote and started reading "The Rules of the Game" about Jutland. I'm still early in the book, so the Battle Cruiser Fleet is at sea and arranging to link up with the rest of the Grand Fleet. The first shot has been fired at a German cruiser from one of the scouting lines. Things are about to get splodey.
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (s6jlS)
20
Good Sunday morning, horde.
I'm pretty sure I read stuff this week, but I can't remember any of it now. It's been eclipsed by events.
I'll probably pick up some revenge fiction this week.
I'm pretty sure I read stuff this week, but I can't remember any of it now. It's been eclipsed by events.
I'll probably pick up some revenge fiction this week.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (h7ZuX)
21
Missed it by a kitten's whisker!
Morning, Book Folken. This week I have been reading Lee Child's third Jack Reacher novel, Tripwire (1999), which starts off in Key West (ugh) and moves to the NYC area, including Manhattan. This is a third-person story with a really nasty and colorful villain with nasty and colorful minions. In later books it seems Reacher is faced with guys who are just big, tall, enormous, etc. This fellow, logically named "Hook" Hobie, seems to be in another class, almost a Bond villain.
The other difference from later books, I've found, is that in this one Child seems to be exploring all the things Reacher does *not* know or has almost no experience with. We already knew he admitted to being a relatively poor driver. He is startled by the 1999 prices at The Gap, for instance. And, Child tells us, "He knew about laundromats and dry cleaners, but he was vaguey worried about finding himself alone in a laundromat and finding himself unsure of the correct procedures." Oddly, this works to make him more human.
Morning, Book Folken. This week I have been reading Lee Child's third Jack Reacher novel, Tripwire (1999), which starts off in Key West (ugh) and moves to the NYC area, including Manhattan. This is a third-person story with a really nasty and colorful villain with nasty and colorful minions. In later books it seems Reacher is faced with guys who are just big, tall, enormous, etc. This fellow, logically named "Hook" Hobie, seems to be in another class, almost a Bond villain.
The other difference from later books, I've found, is that in this one Child seems to be exploring all the things Reacher does *not* know or has almost no experience with. We already knew he admitted to being a relatively poor driver. He is startled by the 1999 prices at The Gap, for instance. And, Child tells us, "He knew about laundromats and dry cleaners, but he was vaguey worried about finding himself alone in a laundromat and finding himself unsure of the correct procedures." Oddly, this works to make him more human.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (omVj0)
22
1) I used to have a rule that if I started a book, I finished it, no matter how much I was hating it. I changed that in my 30s. Since then, if I don't like, I don't finish.
2) I got to the, I think, 4th- or 5th-to-last page of Gibson's "Neuromancer" and never bothered to pick it back up. Sorry, fans. Not my thing.
2) I got to the, I think, 4th- or 5th-to-last page of Gibson's "Neuromancer" and never bothered to pick it back up. Sorry, fans. Not my thing.
Posted by: Dale at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (LNklB)
23
Good morning fellow Book/Reading Threadists. I hope everyone had a great week of reading. Mine started with delight. After Wednesday it became therapeutic.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:10 AM (yTvNw)
24
Booken morgen horden
Sorry I am late, I was washing water bottles
Sorry I am late, I was washing water bottles
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:11 AM (dE3DB)
25
I've given up multiple times on Kafka's The Trial.
Posted by: Biff Pocoroba at September 14, 2025 09:11 AM (XvL8K)
26
On my TBR pile from the library: a recent SF novel from Larry Niven with Matthew Joseph Harrington, The Goliath Stone, and a Dennis Lehane 2017 novel, Since We Fell. I'm not sure, but I may have read it before.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:12 AM (omVj0)
27
@ 25 I've given up multiple times on Kafka's The Trial.
_______________________________________________
For quick relief, switch to his 'Metamorphosis' or 'In the Penal Colony' (sometimes referred to as 'The Harrow').
_______________________________________________
For quick relief, switch to his 'Metamorphosis' or 'In the Penal Colony' (sometimes referred to as 'The Harrow').
Posted by: Dr_No at September 14, 2025 09:12 AM (ayRl+)
28
I also read Butler: The Untold Story of the Near Assassination of Donald Trump and the Fight for America's Heartland by Salena Zito. An interesting account of that fateful day and the following campaign. Zito has the pulse of small town/rural America, particularly Pennsylvania. I was surprised though that she didn't spend more time on the shooter, Mathew Crooks, and the multiple failures of the Secret Service and law enforcement.
Posted by: Zoltan at September 14, 2025 09:13 AM (VOrDg)
29
I abandon ship at first mention of J6 is the end of 'our democracy ' or 'Russia got Trump elected'. THIS week's sinking boat was Putin's Sledgehammer, supposed to be about the Wagner group.
Authored by Candace Rondeaux & published this year. With a completely ridiculous and debunked Trump claim in the first chapter. It was a no brainer stop listening & return to library.
Authored by Candace Rondeaux & published this year. With a completely ridiculous and debunked Trump claim in the first chapter. It was a no brainer stop listening & return to library.
Posted by: InspiredHistoryMike at September 14, 2025 09:13 AM (KaHlS)
30
Norman Mailer's Ancient Evenings. Didn't get through 2 chapters. Only book I've ever thrown in the trash.
Posted by: Nazdar at September 14, 2025 09:13 AM (NcvvS)
31
I tried getting through the Wealth of Nations about 4 or 5 times.
I never read Human Nature but I have read How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life: An Unexpected Guide to Human Nature and Happiness about 3 times.
I never read Human Nature but I have read How Adam Smith Can Change Your Life: An Unexpected Guide to Human Nature and Happiness about 3 times.
Posted by: r hennigantx at September 14, 2025 09:14 AM (gbOdA)
32
"How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?"
In the Too Old to Die series I got through 8 put of the 9 books before skipping to the end of the last book to answer something I wanted to know and then calling myself done. Decent story idea, terrible editing (which never improved), contrived emotional scenes, and enough swearing (especially taking the Lord's name in vain) that I couldn't just listen to it on Text to Speech but had to actually read it. Honestly, not sure why I stuck with it as long as I did.
In the Too Old to Die series I got through 8 put of the 9 books before skipping to the end of the last book to answer something I wanted to know and then calling myself done. Decent story idea, terrible editing (which never improved), contrived emotional scenes, and enough swearing (especially taking the Lord's name in vain) that I couldn't just listen to it on Text to Speech but had to actually read it. Honestly, not sure why I stuck with it as long as I did.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at September 14, 2025 09:14 AM (lFFaq)
33
The reading slog I'm proud to say I finished was all three volumes in the unabridged edition of "Gulag Archipelago." There were many times I wanted to give up, but I thought "a lot of people suffered and died, and it's important to know their story" so I persevered. Usually I was rewarded not too long after I had reached the point of exasperation.
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (s6jlS)
34
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
--
Yes.
Life's too short to waste on bad books.
I stop at the page where I decide it's not for me, usually between 1 and 15 pages.
--
Yes.
Life's too short to waste on bad books.
I stop at the page where I decide it's not for me, usually between 1 and 15 pages.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (6U1c2)
35
I'm nearly done with Book 2 of James Islington's Licanius Trilogy, "An Echo of Things to Come."
The series as a whole appears to be a deconstruction of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series to some extent.
Many of the characters face moral quandaries about the morality and justification for exercising power.
Weirdly, it's also reminiscent of the video game Planescape: Torment, where an amnesiac immortal reconstructs his past to find out he's not the man he thought he was. "What can change the nature of a man?" is his own personal questline.
The series as a whole appears to be a deconstruction of Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time series to some extent.
Many of the characters face moral quandaries about the morality and justification for exercising power.
Weirdly, it's also reminiscent of the video game Planescape: Torment, where an amnesiac immortal reconstructs his past to find out he's not the man he thought he was. "What can change the nature of a man?" is his own personal questline.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (IBQGV)
36
I bailed three times on "The Dogs of War." Not because I was bored; I loved what I had read. I would reread the first part, shelve the book, pick it up months later, start over, quit at the same place. Again and again. Finally forced myself to proceed. Great book.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025
***
I did the same with Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, except that I was *bored* with what I read. Finally, in my thirties, after a re-watch of the Bogart film, I picked it up again, determined to finish. This time I "got" it. It's not a novel for the classic mystery fan, or even someone who likes the Chandler/Marlowe subgenre, even though MF looks like that on the surface.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025
***
I did the same with Hammett's The Maltese Falcon, except that I was *bored* with what I read. Finally, in my thirties, after a re-watch of the Bogart film, I picked it up again, determined to finish. This time I "got" it. It's not a novel for the classic mystery fan, or even someone who likes the Chandler/Marlowe subgenre, even though MF looks like that on the surface.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (omVj0)
37
Zoltan, I like the transformation of Evan Smoak in these later books in the series. You still get the action and justice, but he is less automatic and more introspective. Now he's examining the line separating good from evil, and the power of family ties, and friendships.
His character is transforming, and that's keeping the series fresh for me.
His character is transforming, and that's keeping the series fresh for me.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (h7ZuX)
38
19 As I said last week, I'm glad I gave up on Don Quixote and started reading "The Rules of the Game" about Jutland. I'm still early in the book, so the Battle Cruiser Fleet is at sea and arranging to link up with the rest of the Grand Fleet. The first shot has been fired at a German cruiser from one of the scouting lines. Things are about to get splodey.
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (s6jlS)
________
There is a long, but very much worthwhile, detour before you get to the heavy fighting. "The Long Calm Lee of Trafalgar".
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:09 AM (s6jlS)
________
There is a long, but very much worthwhile, detour before you get to the heavy fighting. "The Long Calm Lee of Trafalgar".
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 09:16 AM (s0JqF)
39
Read other favorites, like The Ballad of Lost C'Mell by Cordwainer Smith, which is a story of justice, incredible love, and cat based girlygirls.
Also Diabologic by Eric Frank Russell. Wish we had more of the plucky Terran Space Scouts in our civilization. A fun story.
Also Diabologic by Eric Frank Russell. Wish we had more of the plucky Terran Space Scouts in our civilization. A fun story.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025 09:16 AM (u82oZ)
40
Huckleberry Finn was one of my favorite books in high school. In fact, when our basketball team got into the state playoffs freshman year, I took it to the games so often to read during down time, I started regarding it as a good luck charm.
Sounds silly now, but hey, we won the championship.
Sounds silly now, but hey, we won the championship.
Posted by: Dr. T at September 14, 2025 09:17 AM (lHPJf)
41
Read other favorites, like The Ballad of Lost C'Mell by Cordwainer Smith, which is a story of justice, incredible love, and cat based girlygirls.
Also Diabologic by Eric Frank Russell. Wish we had more of the plucky Terran Space Scouts in our civilization. A fun story.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025
***
Cordwainer Smith was sort of like Harlan Ellison before there was a Harlan Ellison. His short "The Game of Rat and Dragon" is an absolute classic, better by far than his "Scanners Live in Vain" in the big collection The Science Fiction Hall of Fame.
Also Diabologic by Eric Frank Russell. Wish we had more of the plucky Terran Space Scouts in our civilization. A fun story.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025
***
Cordwainer Smith was sort of like Harlan Ellison before there was a Harlan Ellison. His short "The Game of Rat and Dragon" is an absolute classic, better by far than his "Scanners Live in Vain" in the big collection The Science Fiction Hall of Fame.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:20 AM (omVj0)
42
I did give up hafway through on Marvel's miniseries "Secret Invasion," in which we learn that several characters had been kidnapped and replaced by the shape-changing Skrulls. Terrific idea; lousy execution. Decided that I would be wasting miney on the rest. That was the comic that put me off Brian Bendis.
I might also have given up on the miniseries "Civil War," but I can't remember. Must have really made an impact.
I might also have given up on the miniseries "Civil War," but I can't remember. Must have really made an impact.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:22 AM (p/isN)
43
5 Gave up after twenty five pages of Lord of the Rings.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger
I am lucky that as a kid I read The Ywo Towers first, right smack in the action.
Impossible to stop reading.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger
I am lucky that as a kid I read The Ywo Towers first, right smack in the action.
Impossible to stop reading.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:22 AM (gDlxJ)
44
Norman Mailer's Ancient Evenings. Didn't get through 2 chapters. Only book I've ever thrown in the trash.
Posted by: Nazdar
Norman Mailer is asshole.
Posted by: Nazdar
Norman Mailer is asshole.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (L/fGl)
45
Cordwainer Smith was sort of like Harlan Ellison before there was a Harlan Ellison. His short "The Game of Rat and Dragon" is an absolute classic, better by far than his "Scanners Live in Vain" in the big collection The Science Fiction Hall of Fame.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:20 AM (omVj0)
---
It's a shame he never really developed the Instrumentality of Mankind more than he did.
He lost a notebook full of story ideas in a boating accident and never wrote science fiction after that.
He did write the book, literally, on psychological warfare.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:20 AM (omVj0)
---
It's a shame he never really developed the Instrumentality of Mankind more than he did.
He lost a notebook full of story ideas in a boating accident and never wrote science fiction after that.
He did write the book, literally, on psychological warfare.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (IBQGV)
46
On October 21, 1805, one of the most historic of all naval battles took place off the Spanish coast. Napoleon assembled the combined French and Spanish fleets in order to finally dispose of the Royal Navy, the perennial defense preventing an invasion of England. In Trafalgar Tim Clayton and Phil Craig describe the ships, commanders, and the battle, as well as the storm which followed, depriving Nelson's fleet of most of her prizes of war.
Admiral Nelson purposely broke a cardinal rule of naval warfare; he gave the enemy opportunity to cross his T. In an age of broadsides, this allows one side to bring half of all their guns to bear on the single lead ship of their opponent. Nelson, in a light breeze, sent his ships in a line through the middle of the combined French and Spanish fleets. Once he broke through, the lead enemy ships were excluded from the battle, and the British began to destroy or capture the rest.
Famously, Nelson was shot by a sniper and died below decks before the battle was over, but after victory was certain. While England ended Napoleon's only hope of invasion, a storm arose after the battle, wrecking most of the captured but damaged enemy ships.
Admiral Nelson purposely broke a cardinal rule of naval warfare; he gave the enemy opportunity to cross his T. In an age of broadsides, this allows one side to bring half of all their guns to bear on the single lead ship of their opponent. Nelson, in a light breeze, sent his ships in a line through the middle of the combined French and Spanish fleets. Once he broke through, the lead enemy ships were excluded from the battle, and the British began to destroy or capture the rest.
Famously, Nelson was shot by a sniper and died below decks before the battle was over, but after victory was certain. While England ended Napoleon's only hope of invasion, a storm arose after the battle, wrecking most of the captured but damaged enemy ships.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (0U5gm)
47
PabloD and Eeyore
Ordered The Rules of the Game via my local library's ILL.
The Long Calm Lee of Trafalgar is why I want to read the book. I think there may be parallels to todays travails of the US Navy. I will see if I need to make policy recommendations.
Ordered The Rules of the Game via my local library's ILL.
The Long Calm Lee of Trafalgar is why I want to read the book. I think there may be parallels to todays travails of the US Navy. I will see if I need to make policy recommendations.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (u82oZ)
48
“ Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
who walk according to the law of the Lord.
Blessed are those who keep his statutes
and seek him with all their heart—they do no wrong but follow his ways.”
Psalm 119:1-3
who walk according to the law of the Lord.
Blessed are those who keep his statutes
and seek him with all their heart—they do no wrong but follow his ways.”
Psalm 119:1-3
Posted by: Marcus T at September 14, 2025 09:24 AM (u+yKD)
49
I began the week with pleasantly nerdy matter. A biography of William Wordsworth and the Short Oxford History of English Literature. More and more of my reading involves poetry and most of it is British. The more context I have, the more I can appreciate and enjoy the reading. (BTW, the 'Short' history is still 800 pages.)
Add to that Keats' "Ode to Autumn". What an absolute delight as he invokes in print the senses that make approaching autumn so special. It must be read aloud to reap all the pleasure.
Add to that Keats' "Ode to Autumn". What an absolute delight as he invokes in print the senses that make approaching autumn so special. It must be read aloud to reap all the pleasure.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:24 AM (yTvNw)
50
I don't read a book that isn't interesting or entertaining. Same wit movies. Life is too short to suffer crap.
Posted by: Ben Had at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (mFSH6)
---
Yep. I try to be discerning on what I choose to read (and certainly on books I buy), but I have crashed out on a few over the years. I think it's a function of getting older and developing a more refined taste, because I read piles of trash as a teenager.
Books I've quit: James Joyce's Ulysses (boring clever gibberish), Antony Beevor's The Battle for Spain (packed with bigoted lies) and The Gunslinger by Stephen King (I hate his prose).
Posted by: Ben Had at September 14, 2025 09:08 AM (mFSH6)
---
Yep. I try to be discerning on what I choose to read (and certainly on books I buy), but I have crashed out on a few over the years. I think it's a function of getting older and developing a more refined taste, because I read piles of trash as a teenager.
Books I've quit: James Joyce's Ulysses (boring clever gibberish), Antony Beevor's The Battle for Spain (packed with bigoted lies) and The Gunslinger by Stephen King (I hate his prose).
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:24 AM (ZOv7s)
51
I don't have the problem of stopping reading a book, probably because I only get what I really want to read, and mostly history so know how it ends eventually anyway.
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 09:25 AM (+qU29)
Posted by: TeeJ at September 14, 2025 09:25 AM (eDPLA)
53
With my free audible trisl I now have 3 credits, which can buy me 3 audiobooks.
Do I pick new to me fantasy from fave authors or do I pick nonfiction like a Brant Pitre book on Catholic theology.
Thoughts?
Do I pick new to me fantasy from fave authors or do I pick nonfiction like a Brant Pitre book on Catholic theology.
Thoughts?
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:26 AM (gDlxJ)
54
I read "Will Eisner: A Comics Biography" by Stephen Weiner and Dan Mazur. Informative, and evokes New York in the 20's, 30's, and 40's. He was the son of a perpetually broke dad and the family had to sneak out of their apartment in the dead of night a couple times. I think this gave him a real drive to hustle, and I admired his willingness to take on any job as long as he could pursue his passion for drawing.
It's fun to see the comics world in its infancy. He knew many of the greats before they were great like Batman creator Bob Kane (Kahn) , and Eisner the publisher hilariously passed on this new character called Superman -- a guy busting chops in a wrestling costume, who's gonna read that?!
I enjoyed it, but it suffers in that mid-level talents are trying to convey the genius of one of the great graphic artists of the comics world. Do yourself a favor and check out some collections of "The Spirit". *chef's kiss* Nobody used noir-worthy black and shadows like Eisner.
It's fun to see the comics world in its infancy. He knew many of the greats before they were great like Batman creator Bob Kane (Kahn) , and Eisner the publisher hilariously passed on this new character called Superman -- a guy busting chops in a wrestling costume, who's gonna read that?!
I enjoyed it, but it suffers in that mid-level talents are trying to convey the genius of one of the great graphic artists of the comics world. Do yourself a favor and check out some collections of "The Spirit". *chef's kiss* Nobody used noir-worthy black and shadows like Eisner.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:26 AM (kpS4V)
55
Oh, I've also stalled out on "The Saint in Miami," but I will finish it some day. Hoppy Uniatz is just so damned dumb!
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (p/isN)
56
Thomas Paine and will be coming up in a few months on the Napoleonic Quarterly podcast, they are at Jan, Feb , March 1805 next.
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (+qU29)
57
53 I forgot to explain that with audible credits buy you the book "forever" (can be downloaded) vs just streaming it.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (gDlxJ)
58
My dad knew Eisner in the Army, and I recall him showing me a photo of them together. Will had a fez and was getting handsy with an idol (Kali?) so you know it was wacky hijinks. I've searched for it but can't find it. Maybe I imagined it! Not sure how they met, but they were both artists and writers and Eisner worked on preventative maintenance guides, and that rings a bell with Dad too. After the war Dad wrote training materials for the Jam Handy company in Detroit.
We had lots of Eisner collections. I still remember a factory safety comic by Eisner with a drill press operator gal not wearing her snood so her Veronica Lake locks could be admired by all. Alas, her tresses got tangled in the drill and she got scalped!
We had lots of Eisner collections. I still remember a factory safety comic by Eisner with a drill press operator gal not wearing her snood so her Veronica Lake locks could be admired by all. Alas, her tresses got tangled in the drill and she got scalped!
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:29 AM (kpS4V)
59
Reading this week: Milton's Paradise Lost. It was staggering through it last week, moving page by bitter page, frequently having to backtrack to figure out who started the current tedious monologue, but either it's getting better or I'm more used to the archaic language and Milton's writing.
It's interesting insofar as he had a big impact, both in literature and theologically, the latter being surpassing strange (as he might say). His theology is crap, basically in the "trust me bro" school of reasoning, and his account of Satan unleashing gunpowder during his invasion of heaven was an LOL moment for me. I'm reading the Norton Edition, so looking forward to all the notes at the end, especially on all the angel names he made up.
Also: Milton has God making the angels *before* Christ, and Satan rebels when Jesus "displaces" him as the heir (heir to WHAT? They're immoral!). Very weird take.
It's interesting insofar as he had a big impact, both in literature and theologically, the latter being surpassing strange (as he might say). His theology is crap, basically in the "trust me bro" school of reasoning, and his account of Satan unleashing gunpowder during his invasion of heaven was an LOL moment for me. I'm reading the Norton Edition, so looking forward to all the notes at the end, especially on all the angel names he made up.
Also: Milton has God making the angels *before* Christ, and Satan rebels when Jesus "displaces" him as the heir (heir to WHAT? They're immoral!). Very weird take.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (ZOv7s)
60
Question: How old were the characters Tom and Huck during their adventure.
When I was younger I imagined them as 10-12 years old, but now I reckon they were mid teens, maybe 14-16 y/o. Is it specified in the book or implied?
When I was younger I imagined them as 10-12 years old, but now I reckon they were mid teens, maybe 14-16 y/o. Is it specified in the book or implied?
Posted by: muldoon at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (/iMjX)
61
There was a time when I used to finish every book as if there were some sort of virtue attached to finishing every book started. Now, I might get somewhere between 20% to 50% in. Sometimes it's because I find the all characters completely disagreeable but usually it's due to cheap political or religious shots. Life is too short to spend much time with people who act like that and definitely too short to waste on books written by people who hate me.
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (g+wu5)
62
We all know the basics of Huck Finn so I'll comment about Twain's writing in general. Compared to the British fiction of the 19th century, his writing has a movement and liveliness or immediacy different from Dickens and the others. They narrate a story. Twain brings the reader into the story as if they are beside Huck Finn or Tom Sawyer as things happen.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:31 AM (yTvNw)
63
(especially taking the Lord's name in vain)
--
Polliwog, that reminds me, I am trying to stop doing that in IRL, and it's a challenge to find substitute expletives.
Book related - any good books that list historical cuss words? Might be useful...
--
Polliwog, that reminds me, I am trying to stop doing that in IRL, and it's a challenge to find substitute expletives.
Book related - any good books that list historical cuss words? Might be useful...
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:31 AM (gDlxJ)
64
Eric Frank Russell wrote my favorite SF short story:
Minor Ingredient. It has little SF in it, but it describes a great education system. Well, that in itself is SF.
Very heartwarming.
Minor Ingredient. It has little SF in it, but it describes a great education system. Well, that in itself is SF.
Very heartwarming.
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (u82oZ)
65
Oh, I've also stalled out on "The Saint in Miami," but I will finish it some day. Hoppy Uniatz is just so damned dumb!
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025
***
Mrs. Wolfus No. 1 introduced me to the Saint stories; I'd only known Roger Moore's TV episodes before that. (He was still the perfect Simon Templar, though.) After James Bond's adventures, the Saint's seemed a little tame. My local suburban library has recent reissues of some of the earliest books; I should try them again.
The TV series, the Sixties one from ITC, ran on a nostalgia channel (Decades?) during the Sniffle Scare. Saturday night appointment TV for me. Moore had the necessary light touch, but he showed he could project the toughness that was needed for Bond. Unfortunately the tone of the JB movies he starred in was lighter and sillier, and he didn't get to show what he could really do.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025
***
Mrs. Wolfus No. 1 introduced me to the Saint stories; I'd only known Roger Moore's TV episodes before that. (He was still the perfect Simon Templar, though.) After James Bond's adventures, the Saint's seemed a little tame. My local suburban library has recent reissues of some of the earliest books; I should try them again.
The TV series, the Sixties one from ITC, ran on a nostalgia channel (Decades?) during the Sniffle Scare. Saturday night appointment TV for me. Moore had the necessary light touch, but he showed he could project the toughness that was needed for Bond. Unfortunately the tone of the JB movies he starred in was lighter and sillier, and he didn't get to show what he could really do.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (omVj0)
66
LOL "immortal" not "immoral."
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (ZOv7s)
67
A.H. Lloyd: Have you read Jose Maria Gironella's trilogy of novels on the Spanish Civil War? I completed the first one - The Cypresses Believe in God - many years ago, and have been saving the other two to savor in my old age - which has now officially arrived. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 09:33 AM (mADJX)
68
The TV series, the Sixties one from ITC, ran on a nostalgia channel (Decades?) during the Sniffle Scare. Saturday night appointment TV for me. Moore had the necessary light touch, but he showed he could project the toughness that was needed for Bond. Unfortunately the tone of the JB movies he starred in was lighter and sillier, and he didn't get to show what he could really do.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (omVj0)
---
My wife and I streamed some of it, and Moore was quite good in the role. My wife remarked that he's really a Mary Sue, solving everything effortlessly, but Moore's charm made it work.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (omVj0)
---
My wife and I streamed some of it, and Moore was quite good in the role. My wife remarked that he's really a Mary Sue, solving everything effortlessly, but Moore's charm made it work.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (ZOv7s)
69
Thanks for the question of the week, Weasel.
I will put a book down temporarily, normally within the first 30 pages. I always try to pick it up again to finish.
From about 2007-2022 I was unable to get past Isaiah 5; therefore I could not get through the entire Old Testament. In 2022 I started a "Book-by-Book" video series and read online along with the video on Isaiah and finally got through the entire chapter.
By spring 2023 I'd finished reading the entire Old Testament.
It took me from 1989-2023 to read the entire Bible.
I will put a book down temporarily, normally within the first 30 pages. I always try to pick it up again to finish.
From about 2007-2022 I was unable to get past Isaiah 5; therefore I could not get through the entire Old Testament. In 2022 I started a "Book-by-Book" video series and read online along with the video on Isaiah and finally got through the entire chapter.
By spring 2023 I'd finished reading the entire Old Testament.
It took me from 1989-2023 to read the entire Bible.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (+Axys)
70
Oh, I've also stalled out on "The Saint in Miami," but I will finish it some day. Hoppy Uniatz is just so damned dumb!
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (p/isN)
I like the Saint books, but haven't read that one. They're usually very inexpensive on Kindle even when not officially on sale.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (p/isN)
I like the Saint books, but haven't read that one. They're usually very inexpensive on Kindle even when not officially on sale.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (lFFaq)
71
LOL "immortal" not "immoral."
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (ZOv7s)
----
Weird how leaving out a single "t" from a word can completely change the context of a sentence.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:32 AM (ZOv7s)
----
Weird how leaving out a single "t" from a word can completely change the context of a sentence.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (IBQGV)
72
57 53 I forgot to explain that with audible credits buy you the book "forever" (can be downloaded) vs just streaming it.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (gDlxJ)
I'd go with the choice that is "important," rather than entertaining. That way, if I'm not in the mood for the important reading right now, I can get back to it when I am in the right frame of mind.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:27 AM (gDlxJ)
I'd go with the choice that is "important," rather than entertaining. That way, if I'm not in the mood for the important reading right now, I can get back to it when I am in the right frame of mind.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 09:35 AM (h7ZuX)
73
Also this week Linda and I attended a monthly Book Club meeting at my local library. The theme this time was "Psychological Thrillers," and I brought and discussed Francis Iles's Before the Fact, the basis for the Hitchcock film Suspicion.
I've noticed that (a) I am the only man there, and (b) that I'm the only one discussing books older than the turn of this century. Oh, well, it makes me stand out.
I've noticed that (a) I am the only man there, and (b) that I'm the only one discussing books older than the turn of this century. Oh, well, it makes me stand out.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:35 AM (omVj0)
74
35 I'm nearly done with Book 2 of James Islington's Licanius Trilogy, "An Echo of Things to Come."
--
Perfesser, I never finished book 1 of that - I got bored.
However, I really love Islington's The Will of the Many, and I am excited about the sequel coming out this fall. I think it's The Strength of the Few (not sure if it's "strength")
--
Perfesser, I never finished book 1 of that - I got bored.
However, I really love Islington's The Will of the Many, and I am excited about the sequel coming out this fall. I think it's The Strength of the Few (not sure if it's "strength")
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:35 AM (gDlxJ)
75
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
It's rare for me to quit reading a book because I'm pretty good at picking what I'm interested in reading whatever it is.
But, depending on the length of the novel, I'll give it at least 50 pages and up to 100 or so.
F'rinstance, if I'm reading LOTR and I think "Woof, I don't know about this one."
I'll give it about 100 or so pages because it's a looong novel that just happens to be split in 3 sections and it'll take a minimum of a hundred pages to really get an idea about what it's all about.
Or, if I'm reading something like "The Code of the Woosters", Wodehouse would get the standard 50 pages because the novel is short.*
*These are just examples cuz I love both of these books.
It's rare for me to quit reading a book because I'm pretty good at picking what I'm interested in reading whatever it is.
But, depending on the length of the novel, I'll give it at least 50 pages and up to 100 or so.
F'rinstance, if I'm reading LOTR and I think "Woof, I don't know about this one."
I'll give it about 100 or so pages because it's a looong novel that just happens to be split in 3 sections and it'll take a minimum of a hundred pages to really get an idea about what it's all about.
Or, if I'm reading something like "The Code of the Woosters", Wodehouse would get the standard 50 pages because the novel is short.*
*These are just examples cuz I love both of these books.
Posted by: naturalfake at September 14, 2025 09:35 AM (iJfKG)
76
This time I "got" it.
-
I watched a documentary many years ago about the search to find the author of a failed novel. The filmmaker had tried to read it once but couldn't finish it. When he returned to it years later he was so moved he launched his search. He eventually found the author, a broken man. The book's title was something like Stones From the River. I tried to read it. It was about a hippy who goes down to Mexico. Who f*cking cares?
-
I watched a documentary many years ago about the search to find the author of a failed novel. The filmmaker had tried to read it once but couldn't finish it. When he returned to it years later he was so moved he launched his search. He eventually found the author, a broken man. The book's title was something like Stones From the River. I tried to read it. It was about a hippy who goes down to Mexico. Who f*cking cares?
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:36 AM (L/fGl)
77
Chuck Todd@chucktodd
...in the real world, folks choose grace.
Demonstrably untrue. Like most of what comes out of his stupid yap.
...in the real world, folks choose grace.
Demonstrably untrue. Like most of what comes out of his stupid yap.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025 09:36 AM (3nLb4)
78
When I stop reading a book it's usually because I find something else I really want to read and don't get back to it. An exception was a book by Marion Zimmer Bradley that I could not stand because it was so anti-Christian and I gave up after about 20 pages. This thread has helped me in having more discretion I think.
Posted by: Norrin Radd, sojourner of the spaceways at September 14, 2025 09:36 AM (tRYqg)
79
I'd go with the choice that is "important," rather than entertaining. That way, if I'm not in the mood for the important reading right now, I can get back to it when I am in the right frame of mind.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!
I think you are right.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs!
I think you are right.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:36 AM (gDlxJ)
80
I chugged my way dutifully through Joyce's Ulysses. I can respect some of his ability with language, but it just didn't _do_ anything for me.
One thing which one hears about that book is that Joyce wanted to draw a portrait of Dublin, all of it from top to bottom. I think that gives the book too much of the quality of an inside joke. There are references which only 1900s Dubliners would get, or members of Joyce's family, or possibly only Joyce himself.
One of the things I look for in fiction is the feeling of being transported to another time or place. The sense of "this is what it is, was, or would be like." I didn't get that from Ulysses.
One thing which one hears about that book is that Joyce wanted to draw a portrait of Dublin, all of it from top to bottom. I think that gives the book too much of the quality of an inside joke. There are references which only 1900s Dubliners would get, or members of Joyce's family, or possibly only Joyce himself.
One of the things I look for in fiction is the feeling of being transported to another time or place. The sense of "this is what it is, was, or would be like." I didn't get that from Ulysses.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:36 AM (78a2H)
81
My wife and I streamed some of it, and Moore was quite good in the role. My wife remarked that he's really a Mary Sue, solving everything effortlessly, but Moore's charm made it work.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025
***
Also true of the Saint novels I've read. I cannot recall a time when the Saint himself is ever shot, wounded, or injured, unlike Bond and some of Alastair Maclean's heroes.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025
***
Also true of the Saint novels I've read. I cannot recall a time when the Saint himself is ever shot, wounded, or injured, unlike Bond and some of Alastair Maclean's heroes.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:37 AM (omVj0)
82
An exception was a book by Marion Zimmer Bradley that I could not stand because it was so anti-Christian and I gave up after about 20 pages. This thread has helped me in having more discretion I think.
Posted by: Norrin Radd,
Good for you!
I thought her books were entertaining then it turned out she was a monster and I have thrown all my copies out.
Posted by: Norrin Radd,
Good for you!
I thought her books were entertaining then it turned out she was a monster and I have thrown all my copies out.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:37 AM (gDlxJ)
83
The only book I've ever hated so much I became almost physically ill reading it was the execrable "The Alienist" by Caleb Carr.
I finished it, then dropped it onto a sewer grating, poured whiskey over it, and set it on fire. The only book I've ever hated enough to destroy it.
Of course, I'd just separated from my first ex-wife, was drinking to excess and barely hanging on in my second year of law school, was possibly suicidal, and really not in a good mood at all. So my reaction may have been a bit extreme.
Still, the book sucked.
I finished it, then dropped it onto a sewer grating, poured whiskey over it, and set it on fire. The only book I've ever hated enough to destroy it.
Of course, I'd just separated from my first ex-wife, was drinking to excess and barely hanging on in my second year of law school, was possibly suicidal, and really not in a good mood at all. So my reaction may have been a bit extreme.
Still, the book sucked.
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 09:38 AM (/RHNq)
84
Sorry for going off thread. Here's a lame make-up comment.
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end?
Definitely. Sometimes I go back later and give it another shot but usually not. Myhouse life is filled with partially read books.
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end?
Definitely. Sometimes I go back later and give it another shot but usually not. My
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025 09:38 AM (3nLb4)
85
A.H. Lloyd: Have you read Jose Maria Gironella's trilogy of novels on the Spanish Civil War? I completed the first one - The Cypresses Believe in God - many years ago, and have been saving the other two to savor in my old age - which has now officially arrived. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 09:33 AM (mADJX)
---
I have not, but I have made a note to watch for it. Thanks!
I've noticed an uptick in sales of Long Live Death this week, which is quite timely.
For a long time was asked: "Who was Jose Calvo Sotelo?" particularly on this thread, and now we have our answer: Charlie Kirk. For those who don't know, Calvo Sotelo was not the opposition leader, but instead a very loud and passionate voice in parliament, and when he was assassinated by the police, the Popular Front government took no action. That was what convinced Franco and the generals that they had to fight before they were killed, and so the July Rising took place.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 09:33 AM (mADJX)
---
I have not, but I have made a note to watch for it. Thanks!
I've noticed an uptick in sales of Long Live Death this week, which is quite timely.
For a long time was asked: "Who was Jose Calvo Sotelo?" particularly on this thread, and now we have our answer: Charlie Kirk. For those who don't know, Calvo Sotelo was not the opposition leader, but instead a very loud and passionate voice in parliament, and when he was assassinated by the police, the Popular Front government took no action. That was what convinced Franco and the generals that they had to fight before they were killed, and so the July Rising took place.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:39 AM (ZOv7s)
86
I've been spending too much time on the internet following recent events and not reading enough. I did start Georgette Heyer's cozy mystery They Found Him Dead and am about halfway through. There are quite a few characters to keep track of, but they're all interesting - even the unlikeable one. The dialogue is really well done. I though I was picking up some silly little story but it is really good so far. Thank you to whomever on here recommended it a while back.
Thank you, Weasel, for another interesting Reading Thread and thank you all for keeping it such a special place
Thank you, Weasel, for another interesting Reading Thread and thank you all for keeping it such a special place
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 09:39 AM (iiycp)
87
61 There was a time when I used to finish every book as if there were some sort of virtue attached to finishing every book started. Now, I might get somewhere between 20% to 50% in. Sometimes it's because I find the all characters completely disagreeable but usually it's due to cheap political or religious shots. Life is too short to spend much time with people who act like that and definitely too short to waste on books written by people who hate me.
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (g+wu5)
----
Ditto X 1000. If it feels like I'm just slogging through it because I have to write a book report that nobody will read, I toss it.
And if the author's political hot takes dismiss me as a human being, I can dismiss the author with no qualms. It is sad when it happens with a previously well-regarded author though.
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (g+wu5)
----
Ditto X 1000. If it feels like I'm just slogging through it because I have to write a book report that nobody will read, I toss it.
And if the author's political hot takes dismiss me as a human being, I can dismiss the author with no qualms. It is sad when it happens with a previously well-regarded author though.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:40 AM (kpS4V)
88
Has anyone here ever read the trilogy by Kristin Lavanstradder? I just saw it highly recommended in a YouTube video The Counsel of Trent
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at September 14, 2025 09:40 AM (kTd/k)
89
Morning, Weasel.
Howdy, Horde.
Not much reading this week. Some essays and short stories. Will resume Nabokov either tomorrow or next Monday after a light novel or maybe even two.
I don't recall forcing myself to finish a book that seemed like a real slog. I do recall often feeling guilty for not finishing the book anyway.
Howdy, Horde.
Not much reading this week. Some essays and short stories. Will resume Nabokov either tomorrow or next Monday after a light novel or maybe even two.
I don't recall forcing myself to finish a book that seemed like a real slog. I do recall often feeling guilty for not finishing the book anyway.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 09:41 AM (q3u5l)
90
It took me three tries to get into Neuromancer which is now my all-time favorite SF novel.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025 09:41 AM (3nLb4)
Posted by: Weasel at September 14, 2025 09:41 AM (MvZ7K)
92
Book related - any good books that list historical cuss words? Might be useful...
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:31 AM (gDlxJ)
Pretty sure there is, just don't know of any titles off the top of my head. We used to have a book of Shakespearean insults, but I never actually read it.
As to the series, it's a military setting so the swearing is fair, but I can gloss over it better when reading. When I hear it I remember it better, and that's not something I wanted to do.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:31 AM (gDlxJ)
Pretty sure there is, just don't know of any titles off the top of my head. We used to have a book of Shakespearean insults, but I never actually read it.
As to the series, it's a military setting so the swearing is fair, but I can gloss over it better when reading. When I hear it I remember it better, and that's not something I wanted to do.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at September 14, 2025 09:42 AM (lFFaq)
93
For me it's not so much cheap political shots, it's cheap _anachronistic_ political shots. If a character in a story set in 2017 bad-mouths Trump, well, a lot of people were doing that in 2017. But if a character in a story set in 1992 pauses to say "boy, I hope that flamboyant real-estate developer never becomes President!" I'm likely to put the book down and read something else. All of a sudden I'm looking at puppets in front of a painted scrim instead of real people.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (78a2H)
94
@65 --
I was introduced to the Saint in middle school, when Grandma __ gave me her volume of "The First Saint Omnibus." I reread that so often over the years. ...
I bought more ST books during the ensuing decades, but it wasn't until we had no more college expenses that I collected / traded out the books to get all of the '80s Ace reprints because I like those covers. (Same with Perry Mason, Nero Wolfe, and Parker. I like identical cover designs.)
And thanks to eBay, I finally scored a copy of "Wanted for Murder," a collection of early Saint Stories, including some of my favorites.
I was introduced to the Saint in middle school, when Grandma __ gave me her volume of "The First Saint Omnibus." I reread that so often over the years. ...
I bought more ST books during the ensuing decades, but it wasn't until we had no more college expenses that I collected / traded out the books to get all of the '80s Ace reprints because I like those covers. (Same with Perry Mason, Nero Wolfe, and Parker. I like identical cover designs.)
And thanks to eBay, I finally scored a copy of "Wanted for Murder," a collection of early Saint Stories, including some of my favorites.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (p/isN)
Posted by: NaCly Dog at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (u82oZ)
96
I really have to start reading fiction again for pleasure. I am a voracious reader, but its all books on how to do things (reload, brew, home repair, agriculture etc).
Posted by: The Walking Dude at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (hoOZn)
97
Katie Floyd, re: Georgette Heyer: Mrs. Wolfus No. 1 also turned me toward her Regency romances, though I think I only read one. My top living SF author, Larry Niven, and his wife are reportedly big fans of GH's work. You wouldn't think a guy who majored in math and has written hard SF for more than sixty years would be a fan of such things, but you never know.
Which brings up an associated question for all of us. When you find that a favorite author of yours is a big fan of Whomever, do you race to find some works by Whomever? I've had many a second-hand recommendation like that which has worked out well.
Which brings up an associated question for all of us. When you find that a favorite author of yours is a big fan of Whomever, do you race to find some works by Whomever? I've had many a second-hand recommendation like that which has worked out well.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:44 AM (omVj0)
98
@ 90 It took me three tries to get into Neuromancer which is now my all-time favorite SF novel.
___________________________________________
If you want some 'musical accompaniment' while reading, do a search for 'The Necromancer' by 'Perfessor' Bill Edwards. He's a teacher of music (or was) at LSU in Baton Rouge - or he may have retired by now. When you listen to it, you might find the mid-section a bit too 'jollified' to fit well with the rest of the tune. I'm gonna use 'Audition' to edit it out 'cos it's too aggravating and breaks the mood.
___________________________________________
If you want some 'musical accompaniment' while reading, do a search for 'The Necromancer' by 'Perfessor' Bill Edwards. He's a teacher of music (or was) at LSU in Baton Rouge - or he may have retired by now. When you listen to it, you might find the mid-section a bit too 'jollified' to fit well with the rest of the tune. I'm gonna use 'Audition' to edit it out 'cos it's too aggravating and breaks the mood.
Posted by: Dr_No at September 14, 2025 09:45 AM (ayRl+)
99
...There are references which only 1900s Dubliners would get, or members of Joyce's family, or possibly only Joyce himself...
"Finnegan's Wake" has entered the conversation.
Jimmy Joyce had a bad case of trying to prove he was the smartest boyo in the room....forever!
...There are references which only 1900s Dubliners would get, or members of Joyce's family, or possibly only Joyce himself...
"Finnegan's Wake" has entered the conversation.
Jimmy Joyce had a bad case of trying to prove he was the smartest boyo in the room....forever!
Posted by: naturalfake at September 14, 2025 09:45 AM (iJfKG)
100
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end?
As with naturalfake I try to buy books I think will be interesting in some way. So I try to give every book a 10% chance: I will read 10% of it before making the decision to give up.
I recently gave up on Linda Civitello’s Baking Powder Wars. She seemed to lack basic knowledge not only that cooking practices of, say, 1850, would be different than 1950, but of baking powder itself, and the difference between single action and double action. She seemed to think that single action baking powder didn’t exist. She spoke authoritatively about things that are far from authoritative, such as when certain cookbooks were published (she doesn’t seem to realize that there are a lot of versions of American Cookery out there, or that we don’t even really know who Amelia Simmons was or whether she existed at all).
Since my own knowledge is sparse to begin with, I became worried I was going to “know things that are not so” to paraphrase Jefferson and Reagan. I skimmed through the rest to look at the pictures, but that was it.
As with naturalfake I try to buy books I think will be interesting in some way. So I try to give every book a 10% chance: I will read 10% of it before making the decision to give up.
I recently gave up on Linda Civitello’s Baking Powder Wars. She seemed to lack basic knowledge not only that cooking practices of, say, 1850, would be different than 1950, but of baking powder itself, and the difference between single action and double action. She seemed to think that single action baking powder didn’t exist. She spoke authoritatively about things that are far from authoritative, such as when certain cookbooks were published (she doesn’t seem to realize that there are a lot of versions of American Cookery out there, or that we don’t even really know who Amelia Simmons was or whether she existed at all).
Since my own knowledge is sparse to begin with, I became worried I was going to “know things that are not so” to paraphrase Jefferson and Reagan. I skimmed through the rest to look at the pictures, but that was it.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 14, 2025 09:45 AM (EXyHK)
101
I apologize. I may be confused. Kristin Lavanstradder might be a character. The author might be Sigrid Undset.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at September 14, 2025 09:45 AM (kTd/k)
102
>78 Norrin: "An exception was a book by Marion Zimmer Bradley that I could not stand because it was so anti-Christian and I gave up after about 20 pages."
Was it _Mists of Avalon_? That was bad and substantially anti-Christian (she kept referring to the 'Christians and their dead God,' I really did *not* appreciate tying Nietzsche to the Crucifix that way).
I slogged through the entire thing and swore to never read Bradley again.
Was it _Mists of Avalon_? That was bad and substantially anti-Christian (she kept referring to the 'Christians and their dead God,' I really did *not* appreciate tying Nietzsche to the Crucifix that way).
I slogged through the entire thing and swore to never read Bradley again.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:46 AM (+Axys)
103
Silmarillion was probably the hardest book I have read to get through.
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 09:46 AM (+qU29)
104
It took me from 1989-2023 to read the entire Bible.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (+Axys)
I'm working on it again. Not gonna lie, the New International Version is so much easier to read and understand than King James. Sorry, traditionalists. Maybe after I've read the whole thing in modern language, I'll go back to appreciate the poetry of the KJV.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:34 AM (+Axys)
I'm working on it again. Not gonna lie, the New International Version is so much easier to read and understand than King James. Sorry, traditionalists. Maybe after I've read the whole thing in modern language, I'll go back to appreciate the poetry of the KJV.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 09:46 AM (h7ZuX)
105
I bailed on "A Confederacy of Dunces" afte the first chapter. The main character was so obnoxious, I didn't want to spend any more time with him.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025 09:47 AM (zxZqn)
106
88 Has anyone here ever read the trilogy by Kristin Lavanstradder? I just saw it highly recommended in a YouTube video The Counsel of Trent
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at September 14, 2025 09:40 AM (kTd/k)
--
Yes. It's very good but very sad. A duel to the death that was in line with Viking mores is considered murder under new Christian ideals and a young man is forced into exile.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at September 14, 2025 09:40 AM (kTd/k)
--
Yes. It's very good but very sad. A duel to the death that was in line with Viking mores is considered murder under new Christian ideals and a young man is forced into exile.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:47 AM (kpS4V)
107
Only a few more chapters read in Robert Galbraith's "The Hallmarked Man". Too focused on the week's tragic events to concentrate on fiction.
Posted by: Tuna at September 14, 2025 09:47 AM (lJ0H4)
108
A list of difficult books has to include The Brothers Karamazov.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA at September 14, 2025 09:48 AM (kTd/k)
109
Mr. Blair demonstrates the opposite of the Gell-Mann Amnesia effect, which we all should emulate: "this author gets things I do know about wrong, therefore I won't trust this author about things I don't know about." Words to live by.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:49 AM (78a2H)
110
@75 --
Once you start a Wodehouse book, it's like being secured in a roller coaster car. You can’t get out, it starts with a bang, it picks up speed, and it twists all over the place.
Once you start a Wodehouse book, it's like being secured in a roller coaster car. You can’t get out, it starts with a bang, it picks up speed, and it twists all over the place.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:49 AM (p/isN)
111
I bailed on "A Confederacy of Dunces" afte the first chapter. The main character was so obnoxious, I didn't want to spend any more time with him.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025
***
It's not to everybody's taste. The supporting characters are often very funny, though, and I have to admire Toole's skill with them and with their dialogue and Nawlins dialect. He was the first I ever read who spelled "children" as "chirren" instead of "chillun." I'd never heard the latter in my entire life. He spelled it exactly as the locals say it.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025
***
It's not to everybody's taste. The supporting characters are often very funny, though, and I have to admire Toole's skill with them and with their dialogue and Nawlins dialect. He was the first I ever read who spelled "children" as "chirren" instead of "chillun." I'd never heard the latter in my entire life. He spelled it exactly as the locals say it.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:49 AM (omVj0)
112
I have not read the entire Bible , but The Great Adventure Timeline is a helpful aid in doing this, I think.
It tells you the historical context of the book you are in.
It tells you the historical context of the book you are in.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (GhIJO)
113
Also true of the Saint novels I've read. I cannot recall a time when the Saint himself is ever shot, wounded, or injured, unlike Bond and some of Alastair Maclean's heroes.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:37 AM (omVj0)
---
That was why we ultimately stopped watching it.
I'm more of a film noir guy, where the protagonist is tough and good, but still gets beaten here and there because no one is perfect.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:37 AM (omVj0)
---
That was why we ultimately stopped watching it.
I'm more of a film noir guy, where the protagonist is tough and good, but still gets beaten here and there because no one is perfect.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (ZOv7s)
114
To go boldly where no fag has gone before!
“Star Trek” Star George Takei Falsely Claims Charlie Kirk Assassination “Appears to Be Right on Right Violence”
“Star Trek” Star George Takei Falsely Claims Charlie Kirk Assassination “Appears to Be Right on Right Violence”
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (L/fGl)
115
I've noticed over the years that people's reaction to _Confederacy of Dunces_ is extremely bimodal. Nobody seems to just kinda-like it, or read it and forgot it. It's either one of your favorites or you hate it.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (78a2H)
116
Silmarillion was probably the hardest book I have read to get through.
Oddly, that was one I read straight through even though I can't imagine doing so now. I guess it depends more on me at the time than on the book.
Oddly, that was one I read straight through even though I can't imagine doing so now. I guess it depends more on me at the time than on the book.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025 09:51 AM (3nLb4)
117
Never got around to Charteris' Saint books, and I think I saw a few episodes of Moore's episodes, and yes, he had charm. Can't recall his Maverick episodes very well but they were probably done with a pretty light touch too. (He did have more range, though -- check out a movie called ffolkes some time, and be surprised.)
Re: series books. One thing I don't seem to be able to do these days is go through a whole series front to back. After a few books, four or five and no more than ten, I break off, even if I'm enjoying the ride, and then don't resume for weeks. Or months. Or years. Anyone else have that or just me?
Re: series books. One thing I don't seem to be able to do these days is go through a whole series front to back. After a few books, four or five and no more than ten, I break off, even if I'm enjoying the ride, and then don't resume for weeks. Or months. Or years. Anyone else have that or just me?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 09:51 AM (q3u5l)
118
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
I picked up Michael Curtis Ford's novel, The Ten Thousand at a library discard table for 25 cents several years ago. It was supposed to be a novelization of Xenophon's Anabasis. Ugg ... it was horrible. A confused, disjointed story-line (Xenophone had Daddy Issues, by the way).
A complete piece-of-crap book. I stopped reading about halfway through, read the concluding paragraphs and tossed the book in the trash can.
I picked up Michael Curtis Ford's novel, The Ten Thousand at a library discard table for 25 cents several years ago. It was supposed to be a novelization of Xenophon's Anabasis. Ugg ... it was horrible. A confused, disjointed story-line (Xenophone had Daddy Issues, by the way).
A complete piece-of-crap book. I stopped reading about halfway through, read the concluding paragraphs and tossed the book in the trash can.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 09:51 AM (pJWtt)
119
After Charlie Kirk's murder and the comments from the 'news' and the public celebrating it, all I had was rage. Just as well no such comments were made to my face or I might have ended up arrested for assault. It was that bad. Here is a man, husband and father who was entirely positive. No hate, no vitriol, just a desire to persuade and inspire people. And these soul dead, nihilistic pieces of shit are cheering.
I wanted comfort, solace for distraction. All that came to mind was LOTR, especially the sections dealing with hope and overcoming despair. The Foreword which is so familiar and comforting. Where Sam sees the star above the fumes of Mordor and realizes that all is not dark.The moments of rest found with Tom Bombadil and time in Rivendell. It helped.
continued ...
I wanted comfort, solace for distraction. All that came to mind was LOTR, especially the sections dealing with hope and overcoming despair. The Foreword which is so familiar and comforting. Where Sam sees the star above the fumes of Mordor and realizes that all is not dark.The moments of rest found with Tom Bombadil and time in Rivendell. It helped.
continued ...
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:52 AM (yTvNw)
120
> 95 NaCly Dog: "May everyone only read the good stuff that makes you turn the page."
What a nice wish!
My current primary reading project is _The Personal MBA_ by Josh Kaufman. Secondary reading project is ISC2's _CISSP Official Study Guide_. Tertiary is _Research Design_ by John Creswell and David Creswell.
I'm trying to return to blogging as well, but that effort is drowning under other obligations.
What a nice wish!
My current primary reading project is _The Personal MBA_ by Josh Kaufman. Secondary reading project is ISC2's _CISSP Official Study Guide_. Tertiary is _Research Design_ by John Creswell and David Creswell.
I'm trying to return to blogging as well, but that effort is drowning under other obligations.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:53 AM (+Axys)
121
At this point I don't think it would matter if Kirk's killer turned out to be Donald Trump in a rubber mask. The gloating, spiteful, openly nasty reaction of lefties is the real eye-opening cultural moment.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:53 AM (78a2H)
122
On a writing topic; has anyone else tried World Anvil? I got a years subscription and hope I haven't wasted my money.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at September 14, 2025 09:53 AM (lFFaq)
123
I bailed on "A Confederacy of Dunces" afte the first chapter. The main character was so obnoxious, I didn't want to spend any more time with him.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025 09:47 AM (zxZqn)
---
I don't think I even got that far.
When I was young, I read whatever was around, often my mother's cast-off paperbacks (which honestly was waaaay to advanced for my tender little mind - I made sure to limit my kids' exposure to that sort of stuff).
I had lots of free time, so it had to be filled, especially since my mother controlled the family television and one can only take so much of Designing Women and Murphy Brown.
Hence reading a bunch of Draogonlance books. I am now much more discerning, and pick out books based on reputation and also what they bring to the table. I tried Ulysses because people talked about it, and stuck with it long enough to convince myself it was overrated.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025 09:47 AM (zxZqn)
---
I don't think I even got that far.
When I was young, I read whatever was around, often my mother's cast-off paperbacks (which honestly was waaaay to advanced for my tender little mind - I made sure to limit my kids' exposure to that sort of stuff).
I had lots of free time, so it had to be filled, especially since my mother controlled the family television and one can only take so much of Designing Women and Murphy Brown.
Hence reading a bunch of Draogonlance books. I am now much more discerning, and pick out books based on reputation and also what they bring to the table. I tried Ulysses because people talked about it, and stuck with it long enough to convince myself it was overrated.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:54 AM (ZOv7s)
124
Oh! I know one I dropped. One of Anne Rice's later novels about Lestat the vampire, the one where he whines and complains that he would give anything to be human again. And when that happens, he whines and complains that he's cold or hungry or feels pain. I lost interest in that one real quick.
Anne Rice, for that matter, is mostly miss (as opposed to hit) with me. Her "Lolita"-style novel, Belinda, is very good (no supernatural stuff), but I was furious with The Witching Hour (after enjoying most of it) for not winding up at least some of the plot threads by the end. It was as if she said to herself, "Oh, they'll buy the next book, I don't really need to 'end' this one." Grrrr.
Anne Rice, for that matter, is mostly miss (as opposed to hit) with me. Her "Lolita"-style novel, Belinda, is very good (no supernatural stuff), but I was furious with The Witching Hour (after enjoying most of it) for not winding up at least some of the plot threads by the end. It was as if she said to herself, "Oh, they'll buy the next book, I don't really need to 'end' this one." Grrrr.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:54 AM (omVj0)
125
3 Bible Study Corner With Chuck Todd.
Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. Choose wisely. Don’t let the algorithms fool you, in the real world, folks choose grace.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:01 AM (L/fGl)
So one of Stan's minions is trying to tell us that we should be continually mistreated and take no actions to stop it.
Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. Choose wisely. Don’t let the algorithms fool you, in the real world, folks choose grace.
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 09:01 AM (L/fGl)
So one of Stan's minions is trying to tell us that we should be continually mistreated and take no actions to stop it.
Posted by: Emmie -- be strong and courageous! at September 14, 2025 09:55 AM (FMtrg)
126
Good morning everybody.
I am reading two books because I have a day time book, the Galbraith which is a hardcover so can only read in very bright light and a night book on Kindle, Karin Slaughter's newest, We Are All Guilty here.
Like Tuna,the week's events have cut into my daytime reading so only a few chapters in the Strike book. A lot of focus on the relationship between Strike and Robin but the story is progressing and starting to pick up,some detective hints.
I am reading two books because I have a day time book, the Galbraith which is a hardcover so can only read in very bright light and a night book on Kindle, Karin Slaughter's newest, We Are All Guilty here.
Like Tuna,the week's events have cut into my daytime reading so only a few chapters in the Strike book. A lot of focus on the relationship between Strike and Robin but the story is progressing and starting to pick up,some detective hints.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 14, 2025 09:55 AM (t/2Uw)
127
Currently reading, "Gems of Genesis" by Joshua Barnes. An Apocryphal look at the Pentatuch.
Very insightful.
Very insightful.
Posted by: Elrond Hubbard at September 14, 2025 09:55 AM (ekM0A)
128
Probably won't be around for the gun thread, so I will just put this here now -
https://tinyurl.com/2xk7dwy8
It's funny cause when I first saw the start of video, woulda swore it was you know who. But no, just some other guy in overalls talking 'bout the M1 tips an tricks.
https://tinyurl.com/2xk7dwy8
It's funny cause when I first saw the start of video, woulda swore it was you know who. But no, just some other guy in overalls talking 'bout the M1 tips an tricks.
Posted by: 3X12ax7 at September 14, 2025 09:56 AM (85azL)
129
>>An exception was a book by Marion Zimmer Bradley that I could not stand because it was so anti-Christian and I gave up after about 20 pages.
Once listened to 2 friends (who were ex-lovers) argue about whether The Mists of Avalon was 'a feminist book'. Figured out that a 'feminist' book had 3 hallmarks: no male character portrayed positively unless subordinate to a female; no female character portrayed positively if she considered herself primarily wife/mother; no Christian portrayed positively unless CINO.
Once listened to 2 friends (who were ex-lovers) argue about whether The Mists of Avalon was 'a feminist book'. Figured out that a 'feminist' book had 3 hallmarks: no male character portrayed positively unless subordinate to a female; no female character portrayed positively if she considered herself primarily wife/mother; no Christian portrayed positively unless CINO.
Posted by: Nazdar at September 14, 2025 09:56 AM (NcvvS)
130
The reason I am reading Milton is that I consider him an essential part of the popular understanding of creation, fallen angels, Satan, etc. My long-pondered book set in the Antediluvian world all but requires me to at least be familiar with him. Put simply, writing about all that and having someone ask: "So did you real Paradise Lost?" would be embarrassing if I had to answer "no."
There is a category of book that are "required reading" for various reasons, and as I ponder my next book (and whether it's even feasible), I have to go through various works. Ovid is up next.
There is a category of book that are "required reading" for various reasons, and as I ponder my next book (and whether it's even feasible), I have to go through various works. Ovid is up next.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:57 AM (ZOv7s)
131
Never got around to Charteris' Saint books, and I think I saw a few episodes of Moore's episodes, and yes, he had charm. Can't recall his Maverick episodes very well but they were probably done with a pretty light touch too. (He did have more range, though -- check out a movie called ffolkes some time, and be surprised.)
Re: series books. One thing I don't seem to be able to do these days is go through a whole series front to back. After a few books, four or five and no more than ten, I break off, even if I'm enjoying the ride, and then don't resume for weeks. Or months. Or years. Anyone else have that or just me?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025
***
JSG, the Maverick series in general was pretty light-hearted. It was what made it different from the thousand other Westerns on TV in those days. Moore was a good replacement (though he was not playing Bret) for James Garner.
I'm finding the same as you, too, about the Jack Reacher series. I enjoy them, but I'm not reading those alone.
Re: series books. One thing I don't seem to be able to do these days is go through a whole series front to back. After a few books, four or five and no more than ten, I break off, even if I'm enjoying the ride, and then don't resume for weeks. Or months. Or years. Anyone else have that or just me?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025
***
JSG, the Maverick series in general was pretty light-hearted. It was what made it different from the thousand other Westerns on TV in those days. Moore was a good replacement (though he was not playing Bret) for James Garner.
I'm finding the same as you, too, about the Jack Reacher series. I enjoy them, but I'm not reading those alone.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:58 AM (omVj0)
132
I wanted comfort, solace for distraction. All that came to mind was LOTR, especially the sections dealing with hope and overcoming despair. The Foreword which is so familiar and comforting. Where Sam sees the star above the fumes of Mordor and realizes that all is not dark.The moments of rest found with Tom Bombadil and time in Rivendell. It helped.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:52 AM (yTvNw)
----
In epic fantasy (and maybe other genres) those moments of respite are important for both the character and reader. They give the characters a moment to recover from the traumatic experience or prepare them for the NEXT encounter. They also let both reader and character reflect on hope and goodness and why these things MATTER in the world.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 09:52 AM (yTvNw)
----
In epic fantasy (and maybe other genres) those moments of respite are important for both the character and reader. They give the characters a moment to recover from the traumatic experience or prepare them for the NEXT encounter. They also let both reader and character reflect on hope and goodness and why these things MATTER in the world.
Posted by: "Perfessor" Squirrel at September 14, 2025 09:58 AM (IBQGV)
133
>103 Skip: "_Silmarillion_ was probably the hardest book I have read to get through."
I'm more with 116 Oddbob on this one. I had an easier time getting through _Silmarillion_ than I did my first time through _LotR_. I suspect it's because 1) _LotR_ made me so curious about the "Rest of the story" and 2) not minding that it was written almost more like a history text than a novel.
I had a more difficult time getting through the Old Testament than _The Silmarillion_ (see comment #69 above).
I'm more with 116 Oddbob on this one. I had an easier time getting through _Silmarillion_ than I did my first time through _LotR_. I suspect it's because 1) _LotR_ made me so curious about the "Rest of the story" and 2) not minding that it was written almost more like a history text than a novel.
I had a more difficult time getting through the Old Testament than _The Silmarillion_ (see comment #69 above).
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 09:58 AM (+Axys)
134
43 5 Gave up after twenty five pages of Lord of the Rings.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger
I started it in the fifth grade (9 yrs old) and couldn't make headway. I wanted to so badly, but it wasn't to be. Then I tried again in the 9th grade (14 years old) and couldn't put it down. Funny how that works.
Haven’t missed finishing it.
Posted by: Buzzy Krumhunger
I started it in the fifth grade (9 yrs old) and couldn't make headway. I wanted to so badly, but it wasn't to be. Then I tried again in the 9th grade (14 years old) and couldn't put it down. Funny how that works.
Posted by: Ordinary American at September 14, 2025 09:59 AM (WHfpM)
135
Once listened to 2 friends (who were ex-lovers) argue about whether The Mists of Avalon was 'a feminist book'. Figured out that a 'feminist' book had 3 hallmarks: no male character portrayed positively unless subordinate to a female; no female character portrayed positively if she considered herself primarily wife/mother; no Christian portrayed positively unless CINO.
Posted by: Nazdar at September 14, 2025
***
Which seems to encompass a LOT of novels these days!
Posted by: Nazdar at September 14, 2025
***
Which seems to encompass a LOT of novels these days!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 09:59 AM (omVj0)
136
I almost stopped the K.S. Book because although I love her Will Trent books, her stand alone's were always too graphic torture murders. Also main character is a local police detective girl boss so was hoping she would add a male protagonist. But she just added another girl boss FBI agent so may give up after all.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 14, 2025 09:59 AM (t/2Uw)
137
I had already read a lot of the Saint books long before the TV series. I pictured him as something like "The Mentalist" in his demeanor, but with a very hard core underneath.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025 10:00 AM (zxZqn)
138
Robert Galbraith's "The Hallmarked Man".
-
I've read several of the "Galbraith" novels but for the last couple of weeks I've been watching the C.B. Strike series. The stories are simplified from the novels but I think they're quite good. I saw the commentary by a screenwriter on Pirates of the Caribbean as he described trying to squeeze all the juice out of the lemon when writing. Rowling can certainly do that.
P.S. Does anybody find it ironic that Rowling pretends to be a man while writing Strike?
-
I've read several of the "Galbraith" novels but for the last couple of weeks I've been watching the C.B. Strike series. The stories are simplified from the novels but I think they're quite good. I saw the commentary by a screenwriter on Pirates of the Caribbean as he described trying to squeeze all the juice out of the lemon when writing. Rowling can certainly do that.
P.S. Does anybody find it ironic that Rowling pretends to be a man while writing Strike?
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 10:00 AM (L/fGl)
139
Some of my oddest reading was on visits to my grandmother. She didn't keep many books around, but my cousins and other relatives sometimes left books at her place. Lots of movie tie-ins and novelizations. That's how I read the novel Jaws when I was about eight years old, The World According to Garp when I was about twelve, Paper Moon, and probably a few others.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:01 AM (78a2H)
140
>122 Pollywog: "On a writing topic; has anyone else tried World Anvil?"
If I'd learned to code, I'd hope to have designed that web site. Or something like it. I'm now considering signing up.
If I'd learned to code, I'd hope to have designed that web site. Or something like it. I'm now considering signing up.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 10:01 AM (+Axys)
141
I read a 'novella' this past week; "Second Chances" by Will Jordan. It was very much like an old pulp short-story. It was just one story beat (a single mission/multi-part action-scene) with just enough background and characterization in it to make the reader care...
The story is part of the Ryan Drake series, which appear to be modern-day thriller stories. And this story comes from the middle of the series, where the grand plot is already underway... The plot was of a team of rogue ex-CIA operatives trying to steal a wounded agent/informant from a team of officially sanctioned current-CIA operatives. But, in this case, the ex-agents are the good guys, because (surprise, surprise) there are some bad people in the upper ranks of the CIA that our hero is trying to thwart.
It wasn't a genre I usually read, but I still enjoyed the story for what it was. I've got a full Ryan Drake novel or two on my kindle, (they were on sale) so maybe I'll move on to them someday.
The story is part of the Ryan Drake series, which appear to be modern-day thriller stories. And this story comes from the middle of the series, where the grand plot is already underway... The plot was of a team of rogue ex-CIA operatives trying to steal a wounded agent/informant from a team of officially sanctioned current-CIA operatives. But, in this case, the ex-agents are the good guys, because (surprise, surprise) there are some bad people in the upper ranks of the CIA that our hero is trying to thwart.
It wasn't a genre I usually read, but I still enjoyed the story for what it was. I've got a full Ryan Drake novel or two on my kindle, (they were on sale) so maybe I'll move on to them someday.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:01 AM (Lhaco)
142
I started it in the fifth grade (9 yrs old) and couldn't make headway. I wanted to so badly, but it wasn't to be. Then I tried again in the 9th grade (14 years old) and couldn't put it down. Funny how that works.
Posted by: Ordinary American at September 14, 2025
***
Same here with the Nero Wolfe stories. My mother recommended them to me when I was nine or ten. Couldn't get into Wolfe or Archie. Then when I was twelve, with Stout's 1962 novel Gambit, it clicked.
Posted by: Ordinary American at September 14, 2025
***
Same here with the Nero Wolfe stories. My mother recommended them to me when I was nine or ten. Couldn't get into Wolfe or Archie. Then when I was twelve, with Stout's 1962 novel Gambit, it clicked.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 10:02 AM (omVj0)
143
45 Harlan Ellison sometimes used the pen name 'Cordwainer Bird' as an homage to Cordwainer Smith.
Posted by: Norrin Radd, sojourner of the spaceways at September 14, 2025 10:02 AM (tRYqg)
144
A book that I would like to recommend in Vindicating Lincoln by Thomas Krannawitter. Published in 2008, the book is a rebuttal of various criticism of President Abraham Lincoln. The book starts out a little slow, but by the time I finished it, I like it a lot.
The author's contention is that Lincoln based his world view on Natural Law, and has an extensive comparison Natural Law and Government-Granted Rights (very apropos, since Sen. Tim Kaine just a couple of weeks ago declared the believing in Natural Law is "extremism").
The author also has a comparison chattel slavery and abortion. In both cases, either the humanity of the victims is denied, or the victims are declared not deserving of human rights.
Some quibbles I had with the book was that the author sometimes uses slang terms (such as red state/blue state) without defining what he means. Also, the font is small (this was done to minimize the number of pages since a hiqh-quality archival paper is used).
Rating = 4.5/5.0
The author's contention is that Lincoln based his world view on Natural Law, and has an extensive comparison Natural Law and Government-Granted Rights (very apropos, since Sen. Tim Kaine just a couple of weeks ago declared the believing in Natural Law is "extremism").
The author also has a comparison chattel slavery and abortion. In both cases, either the humanity of the victims is denied, or the victims are declared not deserving of human rights.
Some quibbles I had with the book was that the author sometimes uses slang terms (such as red state/blue state) without defining what he means. Also, the font is small (this was done to minimize the number of pages since a hiqh-quality archival paper is used).
Rating = 4.5/5.0
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (pJWtt)
145
Some of my oddest reading was on visits to my grandmother. She didn't keep many books around, but my cousins and other relatives sometimes left books at her place. Lots of movie tie-ins and novelizations. That's how I read the novel Jaws when I was about eight years old, The World According to Garp when I was about twelve, Paper Moon, and probably a few others.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:01 AM (78a2H)
---
When I spent that night at my Dad's parents, the guest room had only a few hardcovers in it and on one visit I picked up a book called "The Gathering Storm." Sounded cool, part of a series. I was in 6th grade and was hooked. Took a looong time to get through the rest.
Their Finest Hour is my favorite.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:01 AM (78a2H)
---
When I spent that night at my Dad's parents, the guest room had only a few hardcovers in it and on one visit I picked up a book called "The Gathering Storm." Sounded cool, part of a series. I was in 6th grade and was hooked. Took a looong time to get through the rest.
Their Finest Hour is my favorite.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (ZOv7s)
146
I am a voracious reader, but its all books on how to do things (reload, brew, home repair, agriculture etc).
Posted by: The Walking Dude at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (hoOZn)
Well, thanks, really. In the apocalyptic end times, you can teach the fiction readers how to survive, and they can repay you with stories around the campfire after supper.
Posted by: The Walking Dude at September 14, 2025 09:43 AM (hoOZn)
Well, thanks, really. In the apocalyptic end times, you can teach the fiction readers how to survive, and they can repay you with stories around the campfire after supper.
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 10:04 AM (h7ZuX)
147
Harlan Ellison sometimes used the pen name 'Cordwainer Bird' as an homage to Cordwainer Smith.
Posted by: Norrin Radd, sojourner of the spaceways at September 14, 2025
***
Usually, I think, as a pen name on his TV works where he hated what the producers had done to his concept or his scripts. I'm surprised he didn't use it on his one Trek episode.
Posted by: Norrin Radd, sojourner of the spaceways at September 14, 2025
***
Usually, I think, as a pen name on his TV works where he hated what the producers had done to his concept or his scripts. I'm surprised he didn't use it on his one Trek episode.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 10:05 AM (omVj0)
148
Wolfus --
If a writer I like is a fan of a writer I haven't read, I'll usually make it a point to check out that writer. Picked up on King because of a blurb by John D. MacDonald on Night Shift. Picked up on Don Robertson because of a blurb by King. Picked up on Ross MacDonald and Irwin Shaw because of William Goldman.
At the 1969 World SF Con in St. Louis, I shelled out a few bucks for something called The Double:Bill Symposium. Editors Bill Ballardi and Bill Bowers asked a number of science fiction writers various questions about their work. One of those questions was about the writers who influenced them -- I got a LOT of terrific reading suggestions from that booklet. Several writers mentioned John D. MacDonald and not long after that I finally got around to his work.
I hate a blurb that show up as a rave from The New York Times Book Review -- who's the reviewer, dammit?
If a writer I like is a fan of a writer I haven't read, I'll usually make it a point to check out that writer. Picked up on King because of a blurb by John D. MacDonald on Night Shift. Picked up on Don Robertson because of a blurb by King. Picked up on Ross MacDonald and Irwin Shaw because of William Goldman.
At the 1969 World SF Con in St. Louis, I shelled out a few bucks for something called The Double:Bill Symposium. Editors Bill Ballardi and Bill Bowers asked a number of science fiction writers various questions about their work. One of those questions was about the writers who influenced them -- I got a LOT of terrific reading suggestions from that booklet. Several writers mentioned John D. MacDonald and not long after that I finally got around to his work.
I hate a blurb that show up as a rave from The New York Times Book Review -- who's the reviewer, dammit?
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 10:05 AM (q3u5l)
149
Lloyd: your comic superhero origin story.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:05 AM (78a2H)
150
I stop reading.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at September 14, 2025 10:07 AM (PPCgQ)
151
@135 Wolfus, you and several others have noted that legacy publishing is dominated by lefty women. I do not read much in terms of current novels but I'd be surprised if the 'feminist' novel isn't the general template.
Posted by: Nazdar at September 14, 2025 10:07 AM (NcvvS)
152
I think Rowling wrote the Strike books under a male pseudonym so she wouldn't be pigeon holed as a YA novel or a Romance for women. Even reading the comments here you can see that these books appeal to both men and women. Strike is a very strong character, alpha but with obvious flaws. Robin in a strong female character but with obvious flaws. Their partnership works because they balance out these flaws and so their Detctive agency works.
Posted by: Sharon(willow's apprentice) at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (t/2Uw)
153
A book that I would like to recommend in Vindicating Lincoln by Thomas Krannawitter. Published in 2008, the book is a rebuttal of various criticism of President Abraham Lincoln. The book starts out a little slow, but by the time I finished it, I like it a lot.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (pJWtt)
---
There's a part of the right that has decided Lincoln is history's greatest villain and it's really annoying.
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (pJWtt)
---
There's a part of the right that has decided Lincoln is history's greatest villain and it's really annoying.
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
154
Welp, those weeds ain't gonna mow themselves. Catch y'all later on the gun thread unless the wife insists on going out for dinner.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025 10:09 AM (3nLb4)
155
It's either one of your favorites or you hate it.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (78a2H)
True.
And...I HATED IT!
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (78a2H)
True.
And...I HATED IT!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 10:09 AM (n9ltV)
156
Yes, the Saint is Marty Sue. Multilingual (how did he learn all those languages in only a few years?), strong, pilot, top-notch knife thrower, enough brains to anticipate Chief Inspector Teal's moves and thwart them, almost always smiling -- but Gawd, do I love the books.
He does have a bullet graze on his forearm from "The Logical Adventure."
And, yes, Roger Moore IS Simon Templar. Accept no substitutes.
He does have a bullet graze on his forearm from "The Logical Adventure."
And, yes, Roger Moore IS Simon Templar. Accept no substitutes.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 10:09 AM (p/isN)
157
Lloyd: your comic superhero origin story.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:05 AM (78a2H)
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A radioactive dust mite living in the book bit me, allowing me to drink like a fish while writing reams of prose.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:05 AM (78a2H)
---
A radioactive dust mite living in the book bit me, allowing me to drink like a fish while writing reams of prose.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:10 AM (ZOv7s)
158
The reading slog I'm proud to say I finished was all three volumes in the unabridged edition of "Gulag Archipelago." There were many times I wanted to give up, but I thought "a lot of people suffered and died, and it's important to know their story" so I persevered. Usually I was rewarded not too long after I had reached the point of exasperation.
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (s6jlS)
I've read that Alexander Solzhenitsyn wrote Gulag Archipelago in bits-and-pieces over an extended period of time. He would conceal the manuscripts and apparently lost track of what he had written earlier. That's why there's so much repetition.
I just have the one-volume abridged version for that reason.
Posted by: PabloD at September 14, 2025 09:15 AM (s6jlS)
I've read that Alexander Solzhenitsyn wrote Gulag Archipelago in bits-and-pieces over an extended period of time. He would conceal the manuscripts and apparently lost track of what he had written earlier. That's why there's so much repetition.
I just have the one-volume abridged version for that reason.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:10 AM (pJWtt)
159
Ellison's (probably tongue-in-cheek) explanation of the pseudonym "Cordwainer Bird" is that a Cordwainer is a leatherworker or shoemaker, so Cordwainer Bird would be "one who makes shoes for birds" -- a useless and ridiculous thing. So he claimed he used that name for scripts which he thought were reduced to useless and ridiculous things by executive meddling.
Or maybe he just thought it sounded funny.
Or maybe he just thought it sounded funny.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:12 AM (78a2H)
160
continued from comment 119 ...
Then the backlash against the ghouls began. Rallies around the planet in support of Charlie Kirk and what he stood for. (The London rally was beyond belief.) People making the nastiest comments, on air and online, fired for their advocacy of evil and murder. Dowd was the most public firing but teachers and others posting online or to customers were canned immediately. (Should have been caned, not just canned.) Then that extraordinary broadcast by Erika Kirk on Friday. It was a rally cry given through loss and pain by one of the bravest people I've seen.
Back to LOTR. References to 'the wind is changing' as a harbinger of renewed hope. Gandalf talking about the 'turning of the tide'. Above all, to Theoden and the arrival of Rohan at Minas Tirith.
"Forth and fear no darkness.
Arise! Spears shall be shaken, swords shall be splintered!
A sword day ... a red day ... ere the sun rises!"
Then the clarion of all the horns of the host announcing hope and fight and the charge. That moment echoes in the Hobbits taking back the Shire from evil and reclaiming what is right.
continued ...
Then the backlash against the ghouls began. Rallies around the planet in support of Charlie Kirk and what he stood for. (The London rally was beyond belief.) People making the nastiest comments, on air and online, fired for their advocacy of evil and murder. Dowd was the most public firing but teachers and others posting online or to customers were canned immediately. (Should have been caned, not just canned.) Then that extraordinary broadcast by Erika Kirk on Friday. It was a rally cry given through loss and pain by one of the bravest people I've seen.
Back to LOTR. References to 'the wind is changing' as a harbinger of renewed hope. Gandalf talking about the 'turning of the tide'. Above all, to Theoden and the arrival of Rohan at Minas Tirith.
"Forth and fear no darkness.
Arise! Spears shall be shaken, swords shall be splintered!
A sword day ... a red day ... ere the sun rises!"
Then the clarion of all the horns of the host announcing hope and fight and the charge. That moment echoes in the Hobbits taking back the Shire from evil and reclaiming what is right.
continued ...
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 10:12 AM (yTvNw)
161
"Cordwainer" -- izzat a real name? What kind of parents would stick that on a baby?
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 10:12 AM (p/isN)
162
I am reading Moby Dick for the upteenth time. For reasons unknown, I have Moby Dick and Apocalypse Now in the same drawer of genre defining art that are now parodies of the genre. Led Zeppelin fall into this group, also.
Posted by: Accomack at September 14, 2025 10:13 AM (oERdd)
163
Cordwainer Bird was what Harlan slapped on television work that he felt had been tampered with beyond redemption. When The Starlost aired, it was with the Cordwainer Bird byline. I didn't realize the byline was Ellison flipping the bird to the series because some years earlier I'd seen a magazine reprint of one of his non-sf stories, a story included later in one of his collections, under the CB byline and thought he'd simply had some other reason for using the pseudonym.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 10:13 AM (q3u5l)
164
Harlan Ellison was one of my favorite authors when I was a teenager (which could explain a few things) but now I have trouble reading him because of his atheism. Though I still enjoy his YouTube interviews on certain subjects, like the Tomorrow show where he slammed Star Trek right in front of some of the actors.
Posted by: Norrin Radd, sojourner of the spaceways at September 14, 2025 10:14 AM (tRYqg)
165
Welp, those weeds ain't gonna mow themselves. Catch y'all later on the gun thread unless the wife insists on going out for dinner.
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025
***
Must make quick grocery run. Back shortly!
Posted by: Oddbob at September 14, 2025
***
Must make quick grocery run. Back shortly!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 10:15 AM (omVj0)
166
Reading this week: Milton's Paradise Lost. I was staggering through it last week...
Also: Milton has God making the angels *before* Christ, and Satan rebels when Jesus "displaces" him as the heir (heir to WHAT? They're immoral!). Very weird take.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (ZOv7s)
Ah, the Arian Heresy keeps popping up. For some reason, many people have difficulty with the mystery of The Word Made Flesh.
Also: Milton has God making the angels *before* Christ, and Satan rebels when Jesus "displaces" him as the heir (heir to WHAT? They're immoral!). Very weird take.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 09:30 AM (ZOv7s)
Ah, the Arian Heresy keeps popping up. For some reason, many people have difficulty with the mystery of The Word Made Flesh.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:15 AM (pJWtt)
167
continued from comment 160 ...
The LOTR might be an unexpected place to seek solace and hope under the circumstances. But Tolkien wrote that it wasn't allegory though it could have applicability. And, for me, it applied so thoroughly with the murder of Charlie Kirk and the reaction to it.
Three part rant over.
The LOTR might be an unexpected place to seek solace and hope under the circumstances. But Tolkien wrote that it wasn't allegory though it could have applicability. And, for me, it applied so thoroughly with the murder of Charlie Kirk and the reaction to it.
Three part rant over.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 10:15 AM (yTvNw)
168
Got a Fox News flash, a Secret Service employee has been placed on immediate leave after writing celebrating Charlie Kirk's murder
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 10:16 AM (+qU29)
169
I don't know if anyone ever actually used Cordwainer as a given name. Cordwainer Smith was a pseudonym for Paul Linebarger, and I'm sure that's where Ellison got it from. But it's a real word, derived from, of all things, Cordova. Someone who did leatherworking with leather from Cordova was a Cordovaner, which mutated eventually to Cordwainer. I expect it must be a surname in the UK, though probably pretty obscure.
Posted by: Trimegistus at September 14, 2025 10:16 AM (78a2H)
170
Earlier in the week I saw a book that I thought about buying, but ultimately decided against. It was expensive, but I could find room in my budget for it. But the problem was I can't find room on my self for it. The book was 12" wide by 17" tall! That is just ridiculous!
The book was "Danger Girl; Artist's Edition," available for pre-order on kickstarter. Danger Girl is basically a comic book version of Charlie's Angels; hot girls doing spy stuff. But it was drawn back when people understood the genre; the girls are actually hot, and the story doesn't insult reader for liking hot girls. An 'Artist's Edition' is a comic without the words or colors, just the drawings. And, of course, they are printed at the size they were originally drawn at, to let the reader absorb every detail of the linework. This sort of treatment is only done when the artist is really good, and pencils/inks are worth seeing on their own. If I collected Artist's Editions, this would be a worthy addition. But, since I don't...
The book was "Danger Girl; Artist's Edition," available for pre-order on kickstarter. Danger Girl is basically a comic book version of Charlie's Angels; hot girls doing spy stuff. But it was drawn back when people understood the genre; the girls are actually hot, and the story doesn't insult reader for liking hot girls. An 'Artist's Edition' is a comic without the words or colors, just the drawings. And, of course, they are printed at the size they were originally drawn at, to let the reader absorb every detail of the linework. This sort of treatment is only done when the artist is really good, and pencils/inks are worth seeing on their own. If I collected Artist's Editions, this would be a worthy addition. But, since I don't...
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:17 AM (Lhaco)
171
I tried to read the whole Bible about 40 years ago and made it as far as Revelation. I've read sections since but have missed a lot.
The beginning of this year, I started listening to Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible in a Year podcast and have stuck with it so far. It helps that at the end of each podcast, Fr. Mike explains what has been read which has helped me a whole lot.
The beginning of this year, I started listening to Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible in a Year podcast and have stuck with it so far. It helps that at the end of each podcast, Fr. Mike explains what has been read which has helped me a whole lot.
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 10:17 AM (xoTh+)
172
I watched "The Starlost" on youtube earlier this year. What a hoot!
Posted by: San Franpsycho at September 14, 2025 10:17 AM (RIvkX)
173
I am reading Moby Dick for the upteenth time.
-
A friend of mine had the habit of finishing every book he started no matter what. He hated every minute of Moby Dick but, by God, he finished it!
-
A friend of mine had the habit of finishing every book he started no matter what. He hated every minute of Moby Dick but, by God, he finished it!
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 10:19 AM (L/fGl)
174
JTB, in my recent rereading of LotR, the amount of despair underlying all their endeavors really struck me. They despaired of even surviving, let alone overcoming, the growing evil, yet they persevered, because that is what they had to do.. All the game pieces were on the board and they had to keep playing.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 10:19 AM (kpS4V)
175
Harlan Ellison.
Ah...well, I suppose I should get around to reading Dangerous Visions 3.
Yeah, yeah...not "his" work but he was the curator.
Just can't get much excitement built up.
Read DV1 at the time it was published and it really did seem very different SF. I enjoyed it a lot.
DV2 less good, seemed like a fair amount of "cutting-edge wannabes" signed up for it.
And now after long decades DV3....*sigh*
Anyone read this collection? Is it any good? Or a lame-ass dog's breakfast.
Harlan Ellison.
Ah...well, I suppose I should get around to reading Dangerous Visions 3.
Yeah, yeah...not "his" work but he was the curator.
Just can't get much excitement built up.
Read DV1 at the time it was published and it really did seem very different SF. I enjoyed it a lot.
DV2 less good, seemed like a fair amount of "cutting-edge wannabes" signed up for it.
And now after long decades DV3....*sigh*
Anyone read this collection? Is it any good? Or a lame-ass dog's breakfast.
Posted by: naturalfake at September 14, 2025 10:20 AM (iJfKG)
176
Trimegistus, it was disappointing. I’d been looking forward to reading Baking Powder Wars for a long time but couldn’t find a copy. I finally decided last week to read the Internet Archive version. I guess different books are hard to find for different reasons.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at September 14, 2025 10:21 AM (zKTma)
177
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
Occasionally I slog through, but I have no issues rage-quitting a story when it gets offensively-stupid. I've rage-quit in first chapter, and I've rage-quit at the halfway point. I've also just drifted away from books; put the book down when it got tedious, picked up something more engaging, and then never got back to the original.
Occasionally I slog through, but I have no issues rage-quitting a story when it gets offensively-stupid. I've rage-quit in first chapter, and I've rage-quit at the halfway point. I've also just drifted away from books; put the book down when it got tedious, picked up something more engaging, and then never got back to the original.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:22 AM (Lhaco)
178
I've read George Macdonald Fraser's Flashman Papers beginning to end but can't get through his "The Pyrates".
I've read George Macdonald Fraser's Flashman Papers beginning to end but can't get through his "The Pyrates".
Posted by: Auspex at September 14, 2025 10:22 AM (Aq1cY)
179
The key to MD is to see it as a Zane Grey or Raymond Chandler novel. Melville is the Dos Passos of antebellum America.
Posted by: Accomack at September 14, 2025 10:23 AM (T1QkV)
180
The beginning of this year, I started listening to Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible in a Year podcast and have stuck with it so far. It helps that at the end of each podcast, Fr. Mike explains what has been read which has helped me a whole lot.
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 10:17 AM (xoTh+)
Bookmarked that, thanks!
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 10:17 AM (xoTh+)
Bookmarked that, thanks!
Posted by: Dash my lace wigs! at September 14, 2025 10:23 AM (h7ZuX)
181
I have not read the entire Bible , but The Great Adventure Timeline is a helpful aid in doing this, I think.
It tells you the historical context of the book you are in.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (GhIJO)
Genesis: God's relationship with mankind.
Exodus: God's relationship with mankind.
Leviticus: God's relationship with mankind.
Numbers: ............
It tells you the historical context of the book you are in.
Posted by: vmom deport deport deport at September 14, 2025 09:50 AM (GhIJO)
Genesis: God's relationship with mankind.
Exodus: God's relationship with mankind.
Leviticus: God's relationship with mankind.
Numbers: ............
Posted by: Dr. Pork Chops & Bacons at September 14, 2025 10:25 AM (g8Ew8)
182
The Last Dangerous Visions has some good stuff in it, but it's not nearly up to the level of the previous two. If you're interested in the history of the DV series and why it wasn't completed in Harlan's lifetime, or if you're interested in Ellison's career, the book is worth picking up just for the front and end material by J. Michael Straczynski (sp?).
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 10:25 AM (q3u5l)
183
I bailed on "A Confederacy of Dunces" afte the first chapter. The main character was so obnoxious, I didn't want to spend any more time with him.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025
I liked it a lot - and the story of the book's publication is very interesting, too. After his suicide, John Kennedy Toole's mother badgered Walker Percy into reading a mimeographed copy, and, once he began, he was captivated. Toole also wrote a book called The Neon Bible. He was 16 when he wrote it, and the level of skill and imagination that produced the book flabbergasted me. A great talent was lost to us.
Posted by: Toad-0 at September 14, 2025
I liked it a lot - and the story of the book's publication is very interesting, too. After his suicide, John Kennedy Toole's mother badgered Walker Percy into reading a mimeographed copy, and, once he began, he was captivated. Toole also wrote a book called The Neon Bible. He was 16 when he wrote it, and the level of skill and imagination that produced the book flabbergasted me. A great talent was lost to us.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 10:25 AM (mADJX)
184
Just remembered a book that I gave up on early while reading it. The Hunger Games. Never wanted to read about teenagers killing each other over food. Depraved.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at September 14, 2025 10:26 AM (PPCgQ)
185
At least for a reading/ understanding of the beginning books of old testament, Dennis Prager's books I found were extremely helpful to understand what was being read.
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 10:27 AM (+qU29)
186
Abandoning books?
Halfway through Jordan's 'Wheel of Time' series. Also after Herbert's "God Emperor of Dune." Never regretted it.
Halfway through Jordan's 'Wheel of Time' series. Also after Herbert's "God Emperor of Dune." Never regretted it.
Posted by: Anna Puma at September 14, 2025 10:27 AM (+oDFe)
187
Heh. Reading about Twain's birth year made me wonder what, if any, military experience he had during The War Between The States. Turns out he volunteered with a group of fellow Missourians who called themselves the Marion Rangers.
He lasted two weeks before leaving.
Pull quote:
"Cosplaying at war, the Marion Rangers would retreat at the merest mention or sign of Union troops in the area.
“I knew more about retreating than the man that invented retreating,” Twain quipped of his experience."
Found it here:
https://tinyurl.com/bdd89h27
He lasted two weeks before leaving.
Pull quote:
"Cosplaying at war, the Marion Rangers would retreat at the merest mention or sign of Union troops in the area.
“I knew more about retreating than the man that invented retreating,” Twain quipped of his experience."
Found it here:
https://tinyurl.com/bdd89h27
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at September 14, 2025 10:27 AM (XQo4F)
188
As a young LT, a senior MSG I got along with who had similar political and humor views gave me a copy to read. I'm not a big reader, but I gave it a shot and enjoyed it. Yes, the dude's a loser, but the whole story and situation has funny little events.
Posted by: Military Moron at September 14, 2025 10:28 AM (JCZqz)
189
Once you start a Wodehouse book, it's like being secured in a roller coaster car. You can’t get out, it starts with a bang, it picks up speed, and it twists all over the place.
Wodehouse is an author who I had to be careful about reading in public places, because I would occasionally begin to laugh uncontrollably.
Wodehouse is an author who I had to be careful about reading in public places, because I would occasionally begin to laugh uncontrollably.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 10:30 AM (mADJX)
190
A Confederacy of Dunces is the book I was given lol. Forgot to copy/paste the lede.
Posted by: Military Moron at September 14, 2025 10:30 AM (JCZqz)
191
I may have pass on pre-ordering one comic book off of kickstarter, but in a moment of weakness I did pre-order a different one, an omnibus of "Legend of Oz: Wicked West." Obviously, it's a Wizard of Oz re-imagining, but with a western twist. The cover features Dorothy as pistol-packing cowgirl. Like I said, I was weak...
I'm not overly-fond of re-imagining classic stories. I feel like it's done too often for 'deconstruction' purposes. And it feels like a wasted opportunity; the writer and reader would be better served by something new. But...I dunno, sometimes familiarity wins out. And the comic appears to be taking a few characters from the second (less famous) Oz book like Pumpkin Head and General Jinger, so...I just felt like taking a chance.
I'm not overly-fond of re-imagining classic stories. I feel like it's done too often for 'deconstruction' purposes. And it feels like a wasted opportunity; the writer and reader would be better served by something new. But...I dunno, sometimes familiarity wins out. And the comic appears to be taking a few characters from the second (less famous) Oz book like Pumpkin Head and General Jinger, so...I just felt like taking a chance.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:31 AM (Lhaco)
192
42 I did give up hafway through on Marvel's miniseries "Secret Invasion," in which we learn that several characters had been kidnapped and replaced by the shape-changing Skrulls. Terrific idea; lousy execution. Decided that I would be wasting miney on the rest. That was the comic that put me off Brian Bendis.
I might also have given up on the miniseries "Civil War," but I can't remember. Must have really made an impact.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:22 AM (p/isN)
Alas, I gave up on Marvel before either of those series came out.
I might also have given up on the miniseries "Civil War," but I can't remember. Must have really made an impact.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 09:22 AM (p/isN)
Alas, I gave up on Marvel before either of those series came out.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:32 AM (Lhaco)
193
The beginning of this year, I started listening to Fr. Mike Schmitz's Bible in a Year podcast and have stuck with it so far. It helps that at the end of each podcast, Fr. Mike explains what has been read which has helped me a whole lot.
--
I did read the Bible from start to finish in '24. I read it alongside "Unlocking the Bible" by David Pawson. I couldn't have understood nearly as much as I was reading without Pawson's book. I'll check out Fr. Mike Schmitz's podcast too because you can't have too many explanations on the entirety of the Bible, imo. (From the right people, of course.)
--
I did read the Bible from start to finish in '24. I read it alongside "Unlocking the Bible" by David Pawson. I couldn't have understood nearly as much as I was reading without Pawson's book. I'll check out Fr. Mike Schmitz's podcast too because you can't have too many explanations on the entirety of the Bible, imo. (From the right people, of course.)
Posted by: Lady in Black at September 14, 2025 10:33 AM (qBdHI)
194
I slog through out of spite.
Posted by: banana Dream at September 14, 2025 10:34 AM (3uBP9)
195
I saw a thread from Larry Correia where some leftist taunted him as being "part of the group of people that don't read".
I mean...leftist taunting can be odd...but going after a best selling author whose books are mostly read by conservatives for uh...not being literate or associating with literate people is just bizarre.
I mean...leftist taunting can be odd...but going after a best selling author whose books are mostly read by conservatives for uh...not being literate or associating with literate people is just bizarre.
Posted by: 18-1 at September 14, 2025 10:35 AM (sKqQm)
196
harlan's material seemed a little grim for me, ymmv
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 10:36 AM (bXbFr)
197
189 Once you start a Wodehouse book, it's like being secured in a roller coaster car. You can’t get out, it starts with a bang, it picks up speed, and it twists all over the place.
Wodehouse is an author who I had to be careful about reading in public places, because I would occasionally begin to laugh uncontrollably.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 10:30 AM (mADJX)
________
There is a letter from C S Lewis to his brother, saying nothing had ever made him laugh so hard as Gussy Fink-Nottle's speech in Thank You, Jeeves (aka Brinkley Manor).
I agree.
Wodehouse is an author who I had to be careful about reading in public places, because I would occasionally begin to laugh uncontrollably.
Posted by: Paco at September 14, 2025 10:30 AM (mADJX)
________
There is a letter from C S Lewis to his brother, saying nothing had ever made him laugh so hard as Gussy Fink-Nottle's speech in Thank You, Jeeves (aka Brinkley Manor).
I agree.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:36 AM (s0JqF)
198
I gave up on The Colour of Magic about half way through. Couldn't stand the way Pratchett writes. I know I'm in the minority here.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:38 AM (s0JqF)
199
I did read the Bible from start to finish in '24. I read it alongside "Unlocking the Bible" by David Pawson. I couldn't have understood nearly as much as I was reading without Pawson's book. I'll check out Fr. Mike Schmitz's podcast too because you can't have too many explanations on the entirety of the Bible, imo. (From the right people, of course.)
Posted by: Lady in Black at September 14, 2025 10:33 AM (qBdHI)
I agree. There is so much depth to the Bible - I need all the help I can get to understand it better. Unlocking the Bible is now added to my wish list. Thanks!
Posted by: Lady in Black at September 14, 2025 10:33 AM (qBdHI)
I agree. There is so much depth to the Bible - I need all the help I can get to understand it better. Unlocking the Bible is now added to my wish list. Thanks!
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 10:40 AM (EKc1B)
200
except the hunger ggames is really about a totalitarian regime that uses the games for social control
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 10:40 AM (bXbFr)
201
I enjoyed it, but it suffers in that mid-level talents are trying to convey the genius of one of the great graphic artists of the comics world. Do yourself a favor and check out some collections of "The Spirit". *chef's kiss* Nobody used noir-worthy black and shadows like Eisner.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:26 AM (kpS4V)
It's kind of sad how The Spirit has fallen out of the popular consciousness. Even in the comic world. Despite being one of this thread's resident comic-book-guys, I've never read any Spirit. But then, I don't have any Golden Age comics in my collection. I only have selective Silver Age stuff. Guess I'm just a Bonze Age kid...
On the other hand, given the degenerates that make up the current-day comic book industry, if they did talk about Will Eisner, the only thing they would discuss is how 'problematic' he undoubtably was....
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 09:26 AM (kpS4V)
It's kind of sad how The Spirit has fallen out of the popular consciousness. Even in the comic world. Despite being one of this thread's resident comic-book-guys, I've never read any Spirit. But then, I don't have any Golden Age comics in my collection. I only have selective Silver Age stuff. Guess I'm just a Bonze Age kid...
On the other hand, given the degenerates that make up the current-day comic book industry, if they did talk about Will Eisner, the only thing they would discuss is how 'problematic' he undoubtably was....
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 10:41 AM (Lhaco)
202
The is a scene in one of the Wooster books where he is staying at Glossop's country home. As Aunt Dahlia is telling Bertie off, she looks at a statue on the mantle and throws it casually into the fireplace.
Posted by: Accomack at September 14, 2025 10:41 AM (4qMiv)
203
I generally slog on through, in case it gets better (although experience shows me that it usually doesn't). The last book I remember bailing on was was either Beloved or The Color Purple ...so I guess I don't actually remember what book it was.
Posted by: who knew at September 14, 2025 10:42 AM (+ViXu)
204
there is that about the Bible, because it's a seemless thread that goes from Genesis to Revelation,
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 10:42 AM (bXbFr)
205
Yes, I understand that The Hunger Games is about control. Control based on teens murdering each other. Like I said, depraved.
Posted by: neverenoughcaffeine at September 14, 2025 10:44 AM (PPCgQ)
206
I have family coming over for Sunday dinner so I'd better get moving but will be sure to finish reading comments later. Wishing you all a good week of reading!
Posted by: KatieFloyd at September 14, 2025 10:44 AM (rNgR4)
207
Posted by: Lady in Black at September 14, 2025 10:33 AM (qBdHI)
Dennis Prager's "The Rational Bible: Genesis" and "The Rational Bible: Exodus" are pretty solid expositions.
Dennis Prager's "The Rational Bible: Genesis" and "The Rational Bible: Exodus" are pretty solid expositions.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 10:44 AM (n9ltV)
208
>187 QuarterTwenty: "Turns out he volunteered with a group of fellow Missourians who called themselves the Marion Rangers."
I'm convinced my home state was officially "Neutral" during the Civil War because the southern half sympathized with the Union while the northern half tended to sympathize with the Confederacy. The northern half was effectively surrounded by Union states, as I'm sure the inhabitants quickly realized.
Marion County contains Hannibal, which had ready access to the Mississippi; it was probably relatively easy for Clemens, an accomplished steamship pilot, to get downstream to the South; getting back home may have been a different sort of challenge during the war years.
I'm convinced my home state was officially "Neutral" during the Civil War because the southern half sympathized with the Union while the northern half tended to sympathize with the Confederacy. The northern half was effectively surrounded by Union states, as I'm sure the inhabitants quickly realized.
Marion County contains Hannibal, which had ready access to the Mississippi; it was probably relatively easy for Clemens, an accomplished steamship pilot, to get downstream to the South; getting back home may have been a different sort of challenge during the war years.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 10:48 AM (+Axys)
209
I've read the Bible for many years. I'm pretty sure I've read all of it at least once, but never in the Read The Bible In A Year systematic way.
The most recent thing I did with the Bible was to spend months slowly, deliberately and carefully working my way through the Book of Hebrews to explore it's full depth.
There is no consensus among bible scholars as to the authorship. I happen to know a graduate of the Moody Bible Institute, so I asked him about it. He said the question generates a great deal of discussion and the conclusion is always this:
"The author of The Book of Hebrews is God."
The most recent thing I did with the Bible was to spend months slowly, deliberately and carefully working my way through the Book of Hebrews to explore it's full depth.
There is no consensus among bible scholars as to the authorship. I happen to know a graduate of the Moody Bible Institute, so I asked him about it. He said the question generates a great deal of discussion and the conclusion is always this:
"The author of The Book of Hebrews is God."
Posted by: Quarter Twenty at September 14, 2025 10:48 AM (XQo4F)
210
Might have Bassett's home. I think there was sozzled Fink Knottle involved.
Posted by: Accomack at September 14, 2025 10:48 AM (T1QkV)
211
46 ...In Trafalgar Tim Clayton and Phil Craig describe the ships, commanders, and the battle, as well as the storm which followed, depriving Nelson's fleet of most of her prizes of war.
Admiral Nelson purposely broke a cardinal rule of naval warfare; he gave the enemy opportunity to cross his T. In an age of broadsides, this allows one side to bring half of all their guns to bear on the single lead ship of their opponent. Nelson, in a light breeze, sent his ships in a line through the middle of the combined French and Spanish fleets. Once he broke through, the lead enemy ships were excluded from the battle, and the British began to destroy or capture the rest.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (0U5gm)
________
Well, Nelson's tactics weren't quite so risky as usually portrayed. He sent in 2 columns, one of which (his) feinted to the head of the Allied fleet, then changed direction. But the real key was the combination of light wind with heavy swell. That threw off the already less than ideal Allied gunnery.
That sort of breaking the enemy line wasn't unheard of. He just signaled (and faked) it from the start.
Admiral Nelson purposely broke a cardinal rule of naval warfare; he gave the enemy opportunity to cross his T. In an age of broadsides, this allows one side to bring half of all their guns to bear on the single lead ship of their opponent. Nelson, in a light breeze, sent his ships in a line through the middle of the combined French and Spanish fleets. Once he broke through, the lead enemy ships were excluded from the battle, and the British began to destroy or capture the rest.
Posted by: Thomas Paine at September 14, 2025 09:23 AM (0U5gm)
________
Well, Nelson's tactics weren't quite so risky as usually portrayed. He sent in 2 columns, one of which (his) feinted to the head of the Allied fleet, then changed direction. But the real key was the combination of light wind with heavy swell. That threw off the already less than ideal Allied gunnery.
That sort of breaking the enemy line wasn't unheard of. He just signaled (and faked) it from the start.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:48 AM (s0JqF)
212
Since the Kirk murderer's and the reactions to it, I've been consumed with rage. This guy, who looks a bit like and Old Testament prophet, discusses rage in a seven minute YT video. You might get something out of it.
https://youtu.be/8DvU1P7M2vI
https://youtu.be/8DvU1P7M2vI
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 10:49 AM (L/fGl)
213
Unless it was for a class assignment I've never felt the need to keep reading a book. The Poisonwood Bible and Fahrenheit 451 come to mind. I know Fahrenheit has a positive or hopeful ending but the beginning is so oppressive I couldn't stay with it. I've never liked dystopian books. If I want depression and despair I'll watch the news.
For nonfiction, if the writer is dismissive and condescending towards people who don't follow them completely, it's a pass. Then the ones who judge matters, especially historical matters, strictly by today's elitist/academic/BS standards. Bye-bye.
For nonfiction, if the writer is dismissive and condescending towards people who don't follow them completely, it's a pass. Then the ones who judge matters, especially historical matters, strictly by today's elitist/academic/BS standards. Bye-bye.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 10:50 AM (yTvNw)
214
Or maybe he just thought it sounded funny.
Posted by: Trimegistus
By calling himself Cordwainer Bird, Ellison was offering an homage to the great Cordwainer Smith, AKA Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger, who wrote some of best science fiction ever, including: "Scanners Live In Vain," "War No. 81-Q," "The Game of Rat and Dragon," "The Lady Who Sailed The Soul," "Mother Hitton's Littul Kittons," "A Planet Named Shayol," and "The Ballad of Lost C'Mell," among many other stories set within the "Instrumentality of Man" universe. He was an amazing writer.
Posted by: Trimegistus
By calling himself Cordwainer Bird, Ellison was offering an homage to the great Cordwainer Smith, AKA Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger, who wrote some of best science fiction ever, including: "Scanners Live In Vain," "War No. 81-Q," "The Game of Rat and Dragon," "The Lady Who Sailed The Soul," "Mother Hitton's Littul Kittons," "A Planet Named Shayol," and "The Ballad of Lost C'Mell," among many other stories set within the "Instrumentality of Man" universe. He was an amazing writer.
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 10:50 AM (/RHNq)
215
I'm working on my Wild West Raptor world again. Got a card chased GM emulator to help build the world. And to find out who the murderer in the first story is. I'm considering making the world a role-playing setting. Using random descriptor combinations has made for some interesting story possibilities.
Posted by: Polliwog the 'Ette at September 14, 2025 10:50 AM (lFFaq)
216
Gotta go! Thanks again, Weasel!
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (ZOv7s)
217
153...
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
______
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
______
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (s0JqF)
218
I apologize. I may be confused. Kristin Lavanstradder might be a character. The author might be Sigrid Undset.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA
Undset's entire trilogy about Kristin Lavanstradder (1435 pages) is available on Amazon for $0.99. Just picked it up.
Posted by: Northernlurker , Maple Syrup MAGA
Undset's entire trilogy about Kristin Lavanstradder (1435 pages) is available on Amazon for $0.99. Just picked it up.
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 10:52 AM (/RHNq)
219
well the spirit was about morality, not vengeance, something Frank miller doesn't understand,
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 10:52 AM (bXbFr)
220
Two books I slogged through were Samuel Delany's Dhalgren and Heinlein's The Number of the Beast. In both cases I thought this has got to go somewhere, especiallly since both were 800-900 pages long. Sadly neither did. I thought Heinlein might have had a minor stroke while writing his book.
Posted by: Fritzy at September 14, 2025 10:52 AM (T5dpv)
221
______
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (s0JqF)
We like to pretend to ourselves that the original constitution had no flaws, but in fact it had several notable flaws, and this was arguably the biggest of them all. That’s why only blood could resolve it.
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (s0JqF)
We like to pretend to ourselves that the original constitution had no flaws, but in fact it had several notable flaws, and this was arguably the biggest of them all. That’s why only blood could resolve it.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 10:55 AM (5Gg6R)
222
Have tried both Dhalgren and Number of the Beast a couple of times and bogged down in each of them (lasted longer with the Heinlein than the Delany, though). One of these years, maybe, but neither is really all that high on the Get-To-This-Before-Checkout-Time list.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 10:57 AM (q3u5l)
223
174 ... "in my recent rereading of LotR, the amount of despair underlying all their endeavors really struck me. They despaired of even surviving, let alone overcoming, the growing evil, yet they persevered, because that is what they had to do.. All the game pieces were on the board and they had to keep playing."
AHE,
I agree but would take it further. They didn't persevere only because they had to, they persevered because it the the right, moral thing to do. They had a choice and chose to continue even through fear and despair showing faith. Tolkien described LOTR as essentially a Catholic work and having the hero stay the course through doubt was the moral thing to do.
AHE,
I agree but would take it further. They didn't persevere only because they had to, they persevered because it the the right, moral thing to do. They had a choice and chose to continue even through fear and despair showing faith. Tolkien described LOTR as essentially a Catholic work and having the hero stay the course through doubt was the moral thing to do.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 10:57 AM (yTvNw)
224
the film that did of it, with future harvey specter,, a blonde haired sam jackson, and scarlet johansen, was cringe,
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 10:58 AM (bXbFr)
225
I miss OregonMuse.
Posted by: chc at September 14, 2025 11:00 AM (4sPgN)
226
It wasn't a genre I usually read, but I still enjoyed the story for what it was. I've got a full Ryan Drake novel or two on my kindle, (they were on sale) so maybe I'll move on to them someday.
Posted by: Castle Guy
You are aware, of course, that Will Jordan is "Critical Drinker" the movie/TV critic on YouTube, yes?
Posted by: Castle Guy
You are aware, of course, that Will Jordan is "Critical Drinker" the movie/TV critic on YouTube, yes?
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 11:02 AM (/RHNq)
227
I actually stopped reading Huck Finn when Tom Sawyer showed up. I don't think I've ever encountered such an annoying character ever before.
Posted by: BChasm Phone at September 14, 2025 11:04 AM (CHHv1)
228
You are aware, of course, that Will Jordan is "Critical Drinker" the movie/TV critic on YouTube, yes?
Posted by: Sharkman
His momma didn't name him Critical Drinker?!!!
Posted by: Sharkman
His momma didn't name him Critical Drinker?!!!
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 11:05 AM (L/fGl)
229
Another advantage of Nelson’s attack plan at Trafalgar; his ships came in at full sail and full speed, thus good maneuverability. The French fleet were mostly at anchor or just trying to get underway, so they were just floating gun platforms.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:07 AM (5Gg6R)
230
You are aware, of course, that Will Jordan is "Critical Drinker" the movie/TV critic on YouTube, yes?
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 11:02 AM (/RHNq)
Yup. That's why tried the book in the first place.
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 11:02 AM (/RHNq)
Yup. That's why tried the book in the first place.
Posted by: Castle Guy at September 14, 2025 11:08 AM (Lhaco)
231
220 ... "Two books I slogged through were Samuel Delany's Dhalgren and Heinlein's The Number of the Beast. In both cases I thought this has got to go somewhere, especiallly since both were 800-900 pages long. Sadly neither did. I thought Heinlein might have had a minor stroke while writing his book."
I know Heinlein had a stroke but don't know how much it affected his writing. I regarded Number of the Beast as a lark pulling from sci-fi pulp standards and his own characters but not a 'serious' story. I suspect Time Enough for Love, although I enjoyed it, used various pieces he had written at some point, especially the longer narrative sections, modified by the character of Lazarus Long. Never read that anywhere, just a guess.
I know Heinlein had a stroke but don't know how much it affected his writing. I regarded Number of the Beast as a lark pulling from sci-fi pulp standards and his own characters but not a 'serious' story. I suspect Time Enough for Love, although I enjoyed it, used various pieces he had written at some point, especially the longer narrative sections, modified by the character of Lazarus Long. Never read that anywhere, just a guess.
Posted by: JTB at September 14, 2025 11:11 AM (yTvNw)
232
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (s0JqF)
We like to pretend to ourselves that the original constitution had no flaws, but in fact it had several notable flaws, and this was arguably the biggest of them all. That’s why only blood could resolve it.
Posted by: Tom Servo
"the original constitution" was the Articles of Confederation. It had several flaws. Hence the and improved Constitution.
One of flaws in the Articles was 'perpetual union". This was revised into the fuzzy "more perfect union" which today is nothing more than a marriage of convenience. But originalists might argue was a bit more permanent.
Posted by: Eeyore at September 14, 2025 10:51 AM (s0JqF)
We like to pretend to ourselves that the original constitution had no flaws, but in fact it had several notable flaws, and this was arguably the biggest of them all. That’s why only blood could resolve it.
Posted by: Tom Servo
"the original constitution" was the Articles of Confederation. It had several flaws. Hence the and improved Constitution.
One of flaws in the Articles was 'perpetual union". This was revised into the fuzzy "more perfect union" which today is nothing more than a marriage of convenience. But originalists might argue was a bit more permanent.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at September 14, 2025 11:11 AM (/lPRQ)
233
0 Two books I slogged through were Samuel Delany's Dhalgren and Heinlein's The Number of the Beast. In both cases I thought this has got to go somewhere, especiallly since both were 800-900 pages long. Sadly neither did. I thought Heinlein might have had a minor stroke while writing his book.
Posted by: Fritzy at September 14, 2025
***
The story goes that he did. Surgery followed, and he came roaring back in full form in '82 with Friday!
There is a different version available in hardcover of Number, with the second half of the story being different from the previously published version. I read it recently, and while there is still the same reams of dialogue, as usual with RAH it's interesting stuff. And Deety and the others have some different adventures, and the ending is very unlike the 1980 version.
Posted by: Fritzy at September 14, 2025
***
The story goes that he did. Surgery followed, and he came roaring back in full form in '82 with Friday!
There is a different version available in hardcover of Number, with the second half of the story being different from the previously published version. I read it recently, and while there is still the same reams of dialogue, as usual with RAH it's interesting stuff. And Deety and the others have some different adventures, and the ending is very unlike the 1980 version.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:13 AM (omVj0)
234
if any Morons are in York PA, their facebook page gave Scott Presler a chance for a libel suit.
"The City of York Human Relations Commission — a government body — falsely posted on its Facebook page
that I’ve been “calling for violence against them [teachers that celebrate the assassination of Charlie Kirk].”
the guy wouldn't say shit with a mouthful of it, its laughable but they should be sued to the ground.
"The City of York Human Relations Commission — a government body — falsely posted on its Facebook page
that I’ve been “calling for violence against them [teachers that celebrate the assassination of Charlie Kirk].”
the guy wouldn't say shit with a mouthful of it, its laughable but they should be sued to the ground.
Posted by: vivi at September 14, 2025 11:14 AM (cpunl)
235
Don't think I finished Dhalgren. I didn't care for the writing style, I think was part of it.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:14 AM (omVj0)
236
its an interesting person, that Will has developed, a little like his irish counterpart, dave cullen,
Posted by: miguel cervantes at September 14, 2025 11:15 AM (bXbFr)
237
It took me like 5 tries to read LOTR. F Tom Bombadils boring BS.
Posted by: Smileygg at September 14, 2025 11:16 AM (Wn72x)
238
Hi all, forgive the OT post, but thought some might be interested in tuning in to the live stream of Charlie Kirk's California church. They are dedicating all three services to him. First one starting at Noon Eastern:
https://stream.godspeak.com/
https://stream.godspeak.com/
Posted by: Joe Kidd at September 14, 2025 11:16 AM (nbLIj)
239
A couple from the Bee.
Democrats Wondering If Maybe They Should Stop Saying The Things Assassins Are Having Engraved On Bullets
Entire American University System Officially Designated A Terrorist Organization
Democrats Wondering If Maybe They Should Stop Saying The Things Assassins Are Having Engraved On Bullets
Entire American University System Officially Designated A Terrorist Organization
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 11:17 AM (L/fGl)
240
I pretty much stop after Page 1.
Posted by: LeBron James at September 14, 2025 11:17 AM (PiwSw)
241
That simply isn't in the Constitution. There is no declaration of HOW a state is to leave the union. Nor a forbidding.
Posted by: Eeyore
Correct, though the Supreme Court in 1869, in Texas v. White, ruled unilateral secession unconstitutional, while commenting that revolution or consent of the states could lead to a successful secession.
The Court didn't provide any kind of proposed or acceptable framework for the consent of the states option. Which means that, in order to do it in a non-violent, non-revolutionary way, AHL's proposal that the states get together and amend the constitution to create a method for leaving the Union seems legit.
Posted by: Eeyore
Correct, though the Supreme Court in 1869, in Texas v. White, ruled unilateral secession unconstitutional, while commenting that revolution or consent of the states could lead to a successful secession.
The Court didn't provide any kind of proposed or acceptable framework for the consent of the states option. Which means that, in order to do it in a non-violent, non-revolutionary way, AHL's proposal that the states get together and amend the constitution to create a method for leaving the Union seems legit.
Posted by: Sharkman at September 14, 2025 11:19 AM (/RHNq)
242
“the original constitution" was the Articles of Confederation. It had several flaws. Hence the and improved Constitution.
One of flaws in the Articles was 'perpetual union". This was revised into the fuzzy "more perfect union" which today is nothing more than a marriage of convenience. But originalists might argue was a bit more permanent.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at September 14, 2025 11:11 AM (/lPRQ)
I have been intellectually gratified to see some staring to make a point I’ve long believed, which is that the central flaw of the current EU is that it has a structure almost exactly like one created under the Articles of Confederation. That model *never* works; it always collapses under stress.
One of flaws in the Articles was 'perpetual union". This was revised into the fuzzy "more perfect union" which today is nothing more than a marriage of convenience. But originalists might argue was a bit more permanent.
Posted by: Itinerant Alley Butcher at September 14, 2025 11:11 AM (/lPRQ)
I have been intellectually gratified to see some staring to make a point I’ve long believed, which is that the central flaw of the current EU is that it has a structure almost exactly like one created under the Articles of Confederation. That model *never* works; it always collapses under stress.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:20 AM (5Gg6R)
243
Happy Sunday to all.
Posted by: LASue at September 14, 2025 11:28 AM (lCppi)
244
If the South wanted to leave the Union they should have won the war. The Constitution does address treason and sedition. The North took the position that these Southern states were committing just that.
You can’t have a valid country where parts can just declare they are no longer part of it and that’s that. They obviously expected push back because they prepared for war for a decade.
You can’t have a valid country where parts can just declare they are no longer part of it and that’s that. They obviously expected push back because they prepared for war for a decade.
Posted by: The way I see it at September 14, 2025 11:28 AM (EYmYM)
245
A I think it would be a great idea that as soon as a State has a certain percentage of residents on the federal teat, that State should be kicked out of the Union.
10% outta do it.
10% outta do it.
Posted by: E Pluribus Anus at September 14, 2025 11:29 AM (R/m4+)
246
I was almost 29 for the 2nd time when someone told me, "Just because an author has finished his book doesn't mean you have to."
Great advice.
Great advice.
Posted by: My friends call me Pete at September 14, 2025 11:29 AM (afP1r)
247
Alas, her tresses got tangled in the drill and she got scalped!
Posted by: All Hail Eris,,
We all knew that would happen.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,,
We all knew that would happen.
Posted by: From about That Time at September 14, 2025 11:32 AM (n4GiU)
248
Morning Hordemates!
Church will be interesting this morning.
Church will be interesting this morning.
Posted by: Diogenes at September 14, 2025 11:32 AM (2WIwB)
249
JTB, that is what I meant by "had to", but didn't explain it well.
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 11:36 AM (r2Uym)
250
Prosaic Elements of Life Dept.: I walked around to the Aldi behind where I live. One item on my list was "mouthwash." Aldi does not carry mouthwash, at least at this store. Tootbrushes and toothpaste, but no mouthwash. I'll have to hit Walmart tomorrow.
Okay, go on back to what you were doing.
Okay, go on back to what you were doing.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:38 AM (omVj0)
251
>250 Wolfus: "I walked around to the Aldi behind where I live."
At least Aldi is open on Sunday where you are.
Grocery shopping (or pretty much any shopping) is a non-starter on Sundays over here. If you really need something on a Sunday, you may have to drive all the way to the nearest Autobahn rest stop's gas station and hope they have whatever it is you need.
At least Aldi is open on Sunday where you are.
Grocery shopping (or pretty much any shopping) is a non-starter on Sundays over here. If you really need something on a Sunday, you may have to drive all the way to the nearest Autobahn rest stop's gas station and hope they have whatever it is you need.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025 11:41 AM (+Axys)
252
It was the feast of the Exaltation Of The Cross. Commemorates the return of the Cross to Jerusalem, from Sasanian Iran (who'd just lost the war).
Posted by: gKWVE at September 14, 2025 11:42 AM (gKWVE)
253
Bible study has been working through Paul's letter to the Romans, and this week was chapter 12. Timely.
Posted by: Brother Tim sez at September 14, 2025 11:44 AM (jMVL0)
254
You can grocery shop on Sunday here, but it can be a zoo later in the morning and afternoon. Late to the thread this morning because we had to grab a few things and found them short handed enough at the Walmart here that we had to use the freakin' self-checkout; no registers open. A royal pain in the kazoosis when the system can't find the item from the scan code.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 11:45 AM (q3u5l)
255
It took me like 5 tries to read LOTR. F Tom Bombadils boring BS.
Posted by: Smileygg at September 14, 2025 11:16 AM (Wn72x)
What, you don't like to read about a leaf's entire life story as it falls from a tree, and its X,Y,and Z location in the space time continuum, and the life story of the sun as it cooks the little defenseless leaf as it falls to the ground, and how a proud little pebble is described with every word in the english language as it roles down the trail and runs over the now cooked leaf. Oh don't forget the dirt, we have to know how the dirt feels as the proud little pebble kicks up little dirt puffs, which also will be described with every word in the english language, and so on.
Thats the book I slogged through, and thats the book that ruined me from ever reading anything thicker than a magazine.
Posted by: Smileygg at September 14, 2025 11:16 AM (Wn72x)
What, you don't like to read about a leaf's entire life story as it falls from a tree, and its X,Y,and Z location in the space time continuum, and the life story of the sun as it cooks the little defenseless leaf as it falls to the ground, and how a proud little pebble is described with every word in the english language as it roles down the trail and runs over the now cooked leaf. Oh don't forget the dirt, we have to know how the dirt feels as the proud little pebble kicks up little dirt puffs, which also will be described with every word in the english language, and so on.
Thats the book I slogged through, and thats the book that ruined me from ever reading anything thicker than a magazine.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 14, 2025 11:47 AM (snZF9)
Posted by: Archer at September 14, 2025 11:49 AM (IDphi)
257
Print is dead.
Egon
Posted by: Archer at September 14, 2025 11:49 AM (IDphi)
It should have died before I read LOTR. lol
Egon
Posted by: Archer at September 14, 2025 11:49 AM (IDphi)
It should have died before I read LOTR. lol
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 14, 2025 11:50 AM (snZF9)
258
Yahoo says Tommy Robinson got "up to" 150,000 people at ralley.
Must be British understatement you hear about.
Must be British understatement you hear about.
Posted by: From about That Time at September 14, 2025 11:50 AM (n4GiU)
259
[LoTR is] the book I slogged through, and thats the book that ruined me from ever reading anything thicker than a magazine.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 14, 2025
***
I haven't read the trilogy in many years. Though I think your analysis is pretty close to the truth, the story does have remarkable scenes of action, power, and foreshadowing. It just takes a *long* time to get to them.
If this be heresy, so be it. I admire Tolkien's storytelling and worldbuilding, but sometimes he went kinda far.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 14, 2025
***
I haven't read the trilogy in many years. Though I think your analysis is pretty close to the truth, the story does have remarkable scenes of action, power, and foreshadowing. It just takes a *long* time to get to them.
If this be heresy, so be it. I admire Tolkien's storytelling and worldbuilding, but sometimes he went kinda far.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:50 AM (omVj0)
260
The French fleet were mostly at anchor or just trying to get underway, so they were just floating gun platforms.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:07 AM (5Gg6R)
They weren't anchored. It was too deep. They were sailing slowly, and rolling in the swells...that added to their inaccurate gunfire.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:07 AM (5Gg6R)
They weren't anchored. It was too deep. They were sailing slowly, and rolling in the swells...that added to their inaccurate gunfire.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 11:52 AM (n9ltV)
261
At least Aldi is open on Sunday where you are.
Grocery shopping (or pretty much any shopping) is a non-starter on Sundays over here. If you really need something on a Sunday, you may have to drive all the way to the nearest Autobahn rest stop's gas station and hope they have whatever it is you need.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025
***
Grocery stores were closed on Sundays here until the early '70s. You had to plan your shopping for sure.
Grocery shopping (or pretty much any shopping) is a non-starter on Sundays over here. If you really need something on a Sunday, you may have to drive all the way to the nearest Autobahn rest stop's gas station and hope they have whatever it is you need.
Posted by: SPinRH_F-16 at September 14, 2025
***
Grocery stores were closed on Sundays here until the early '70s. You had to plan your shopping for sure.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:52 AM (omVj0)
262
Read LoTR in high school when the Ace paperbacks came out and have not revisited since (grabbed it a few months back when the Kindle edition was on sale for two bucks), but will do so one of these days.
Just for giggles, imagine LoTR (or Moby Dick, or War and Peace, or the magisterial tome of your choice that you find a hard slog or too intimidating to open in the first place) getting a rewrite by Elmore Leonard ("I try to leave out the parts that readers skip.").
Just for giggles, imagine LoTR (or Moby Dick, or War and Peace, or the magisterial tome of your choice that you find a hard slog or too intimidating to open in the first place) getting a rewrite by Elmore Leonard ("I try to leave out the parts that readers skip.").
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 11:53 AM (q3u5l)
263
By the time I'd read LOTR I'd already read Dickens.
I wan inured.
It was about then I got taught speedreading, too, so could elide whole paragraphs at a glance.
The absolute worst though, is Ayn Rand. That woman needed an editor from the Reader's Digest.
I wan inured.
It was about then I got taught speedreading, too, so could elide whole paragraphs at a glance.
The absolute worst though, is Ayn Rand. That woman needed an editor from the Reader's Digest.
Posted by: MkY at September 14, 2025 11:53 AM (cPGH3)
264
One because it's obvious saying a few dozen showed up in London would have been laughed at
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 11:53 AM (+qU29)
265
Just for giggles, imagine LoTR (or Moby Dick, or War and Peace, or the magisterial tome of your choice that you find a hard slog or too intimidating to open in the first place) getting a rewrite by Elmore Leonard ("I try to leave out the parts that readers skip.").
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025
***
That I would try!
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025
***
That I would try!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:54 AM (omVj0)
266
Well, time to do a couple of things around Casa Some Guy and thereby make matters even worse than they already were.
Thanks for the thread, Weasel.
Have a good one, gang.
Thanks for the thread, Weasel.
Have a good one, gang.
Posted by: Just Some Guy at September 14, 2025 11:54 AM (q3u5l)
267
I haven't read the trilogy in many years. Though I think your analysis is pretty close to the truth, the story does have remarkable scenes of action, power, and foreshadowing. It just takes a *long* time to get to them.
If this be heresy, so be it. I admire Tolkien's storytelling and worldbuilding, but sometimes he went kinda far.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:50 AM (omVj0)
Yeah don't get me wrong, I loved the story. Its amazing the world he built, but I can't even count the amount of times I kept thinking of the hobbits standing around with their thumb in their asses waiting for the story to progress.
If this be heresy, so be it. I admire Tolkien's storytelling and worldbuilding, but sometimes he went kinda far.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:50 AM (omVj0)
Yeah don't get me wrong, I loved the story. Its amazing the world he built, but I can't even count the amount of times I kept thinking of the hobbits standing around with their thumb in their asses waiting for the story to progress.
Posted by: Berserker-Dragonheads Division at September 14, 2025 11:54 AM (snZF9)
268
Yes, about time for me to do some chores as well. Thanks once again, Weasel! You are doing a fine job!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius, Dreaming of Elsewhere at September 14, 2025 11:55 AM (omVj0)
269
Whoopsie says the problem is not enough lies.
Whoopi Goldberg Rips Dems for Not Continuing Cover Up of Joe Biden’s Mental Decline
https://is.gd/pSf0kF
Whoopi Goldberg Rips Dems for Not Continuing Cover Up of Joe Biden’s Mental Decline
https://is.gd/pSf0kF
Posted by: Anonosaurus Wrecks, Raging Like Godzilla! at September 14, 2025 11:56 AM (L/fGl)
270
Yes, about time for me to do some chores as well. Thanks once again, Weasel! You are doing a fine job!
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius
Slackers! I've already done my chores.
Posted by: Wolfus Aurelius
Slackers! I've already done my chores.
Posted by: MkY at September 14, 2025 11:56 AM (cPGH3)
271
I tried to read Count of Monte Cristo and came to the same conclusion as Dorothy Parker:
Altho I try and never cease
at reading Dumas pere and Duma fis,
I find I cannot make me care
for Dumas fis and Dumas pere.
(There was a father and son Dumas, both writers.)
Altho I try and never cease
at reading Dumas pere and Duma fis,
I find I cannot make me care
for Dumas fis and Dumas pere.
(There was a father and son Dumas, both writers.)
Posted by: Wenda at September 14, 2025 11:57 AM (dqnNP)
272
They weren't anchored. It was too deep. They were sailing slowly, and rolling in the swells...that added to their inaccurate gunfire.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 11:52 AM (n9ltV)
thanks, forgot that. btw sometime art thread idea - Battle of Trafalgar, credited to English School.
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 11:52 AM (n9ltV)
thanks, forgot that. btw sometime art thread idea - Battle of Trafalgar, credited to English School.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:57 AM (uWKK8)
273
Dumas was paid by the word. I believe Dickens was, as well?
Posted by: MkY at September 14, 2025 11:58 AM (cPGH3)
274
Do you stop reading a book that proves unsatisfactory, or keep slogging thru to the end? How far have you gone in a book before deciding to abandon ship?
Posted by: Weasel
Am still stuck on The Count of Monte Cristo. On page 2500 of 3111, Gutenberg epub. I realized early on that it was a serialized adventure, but still it's awful.
Posted by: Weasel
Am still stuck on The Count of Monte Cristo. On page 2500 of 3111, Gutenberg epub. I realized early on that it was a serialized adventure, but still it's awful.
Posted by: weft cut-loop at September 14, 2025 11:59 AM (mlg/3)
275
btw sometime art thread idea - Battle of Trafalgar, credited to English School.
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:57 AM (uWKK
I think I had a couple already!
Posted by: Tom Servo at September 14, 2025 11:57 AM (uWKK
I think I had a couple already!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo [Flying the American Flag!] at September 14, 2025 12:00 PM (n9ltV)
276
WE HAZ A NOOD
Posted by: Skip at September 14, 2025 12:01 PM (+qU29)
277
Good morning, all. Took a walk through the woods with the doge, and thought about this morning’s sermon. I feel better. Hope everyone else is doing the same.
Posted by: Piper at September 14, 2025 12:09 PM (p4NUW)
278
For me it's two authors: Jane Austen and Herman Melville. I enjoy both on film but when I attempt Moby Dick or any Austen novel, my eyes glue themselves shut.
Posted by: Jed at September 14, 2025 12:16 PM (TdWXO)
279
114
'To go boldly where no fag has gone before!'
It doesn't matter what lies the left tell themselves, everyone else can see by their reactions that they are culpable for Kirk's death.
I hope this gets brought home to them brutally.
'To go boldly where no fag has gone before!'
It doesn't matter what lies the left tell themselves, everyone else can see by their reactions that they are culpable for Kirk's death.
I hope this gets brought home to them brutally.
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 14, 2025 12:23 PM (3wi/L)
Posted by: All Hail Eris,, coming to you live from the Roller Disco of Discord! at September 14, 2025 12:24 PM (r2Uym)
281
125
'Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. '
Why would the leftists need grace if they weren't responsible for Charlie Kirk's murder?
'Chuck Todd@chucktodd
Being angry and staying angry is a choice. Giving grace is a choice. '
Why would the leftists need grace if they weren't responsible for Charlie Kirk's murder?
Posted by: Dr. Claw at September 14, 2025 12:33 PM (3wi/L)
282
Currently on the second back to back reading of Dickens Our Mutual Friend. I recommend the two readings to pickup on the subtleties of his writing.
Same with Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury. Read it quickly at first and wonder what the heck is this? Then read it a second right away and you'll think 'Wow! What a great story.'
Same with Faulkner's The Sound and the Fury. Read it quickly at first and wonder what the heck is this? Then read it a second right away and you'll think 'Wow! What a great story.'
Posted by: Fritzy at September 14, 2025 12:40 PM (T5dpv)
283
"Currently on the second back to back reading of Dickens Our Mutual Friend. I recommend the two readings to pickup on the subtleties of his writing."
The characters are incentive enough for the first reading. BTW, back in the 70's Masterpiece Theater did a very good adaptation of the novel with Leo McKern as Noddy Boffin. A very young Jane Seymour was also in the cast as Bella.
The characters are incentive enough for the first reading. BTW, back in the 70's Masterpiece Theater did a very good adaptation of the novel with Leo McKern as Noddy Boffin. A very young Jane Seymour was also in the cast as Bella.
Posted by: Tuna at September 14, 2025 12:50 PM (lJ0H4)
284
The characters are incentive enough for the first reading. BTW, back in the 70's Masterpiece Theater did a very good adaptation of the novel with Leo McKern as Noddy Boffin. A very young Jane Seymour was also in the cast as Bella.
Posted by: Tuna at September 14, 2025 12:50 PM (lJ0H4
Thanks. I'll try to find it on the intertubes or DVD. McKern was also great as Rumpole of the Bailey.
Posted by: Tuna at September 14, 2025 12:50 PM (lJ0H4
Thanks. I'll try to find it on the intertubes or DVD. McKern was also great as Rumpole of the Bailey.
Posted by: Fritzy at September 14, 2025 12:59 PM (T5dpv)
285
A book that I would like to recommend in Vindicating Lincoln by Thomas Krannawitter. ...
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (pJWtt)
---
There's a part of the right that has decided Lincoln is history's greatest villain and it's really annoying.
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
Krannawitter addressed that very issue, and really helped me re-think the issue of Succession. The people in the several States have a right to rebellion against a tyrannical government. But that's not what the Southern states did.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 10:03 AM (pJWtt)
---
There's a part of the right that has decided Lincoln is history's greatest villain and it's really annoying.
I've engaged a few of them in debates and the question they never address is: If South Carolina was interested in lawful secession, why not call for an Article 5 convention of the states? This would be the Constitutional way to resolve how to leave the Union. If it was denied, or voted down, okay, now there is a stronger justification for war, but I don't buy that people can break up a country just because they lose an election - and the government hasn't even changed hands yet. If anyone can leave at any time, the word "rebellion" has no practical meaning.
Posted by: Ace-Endorsed Author A.H. Lloyd at September 14, 2025 10:08 AM (ZOv7s)
Krannawitter addressed that very issue, and really helped me re-think the issue of Succession. The people in the several States have a right to rebellion against a tyrannical government. But that's not what the Southern states did.
Posted by: Retired Buckeye Cop is now an engineer at September 14, 2025 01:26 PM (pJWtt)
286
I have started and completed many books over all my years. Some have been reread a few times, some "slogged" through and wish I hadn't, more as I get older, just dropped to never be opened again.
Say Yah To The UP, Ehh!
Say Yah To The UP, Ehh!
Posted by: Kafiroon at September 14, 2025 01:26 PM (edtQy)
287
@201 --
Back from church.
CG, The Spirit was not a comic book but instead an eight-page insert in Sunday newspapers. Seven pages were devoted to the Spirit. Don't recall what went on the back page.
That said, Kitchen Sink Publications (sadly defunct) reprinted all the post-war Spirit stories as B/W comic books. You should be able to find those cheap. Happy hunting.
Back from church.
CG, The Spirit was not a comic book but instead an eight-page insert in Sunday newspapers. Seven pages were devoted to the Spirit. Don't recall what went on the back page.
That said, Kitchen Sink Publications (sadly defunct) reprinted all the post-war Spirit stories as B/W comic books. You should be able to find those cheap. Happy hunting.
Posted by: Weak Geek at September 14, 2025 01:40 PM (p/isN)
288
Please bring back Prof Squirrels and the book thread. This thread sucks and blows. Why bother with this junk?
Posted by: Deep Sea Endiver at September 14, 2025 02:07 PM (2Y+lI)
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