Strange Horizons Reader CommentsJuly to September, 2001
When She Came Walking: I loved this story! Grabbed me from the start and never let go. Its offbeat humor and even more offbeat characters kept me laughing the whole way. Thanks for the day brightener!
MLL At the start of Tim Jones' story, "When She Came Walking," I was prepared not to like the story -- it felt a bit too absurd for my tastes. But then he was able to not only create a world that was similar to ours in every way but one, but he maintained the consistency of that world. Well done. And of course, hopeless romantic that I am, I was glad the narrator got the girl by the story's end, as well! Mike
Michael Jasper <mjasper@nc.rr.com> I loved the 2 part story Somewhere Down The River. I wish there were a part 3, 4, or more! I especially enjoyed the coat of birds, the name "Mr. Velvet Nose", the soul-lantern, and the race to win the soul/life of the in-betweener. Thanks to Strange Horizons for presenting such great stories, and thanks to the author, of course.
Laura <unna@worldmailer.com> We are currently looking into producing both a downloadable version of Strange Horizons, and a possible Best Of print edition. We're exploring a variety of possibilities, and will let y'all know as soon as we do. Thanks for the interest!
Mary Anne Mohanraj <editor@strangehorizons.com> Two comments: I think it would be great if you could see your way clear to produce print-friendly PDF volumes of SH that could be downloaded. I don't imagine that they would be that much more difficult to assemble than web pages, and they could provide you with a source of revenue if you charge a fee of maybe $5 for a download. With regard to assertions that "body language" or "non-verbal communication" does not exist: what a quaintly ignorant assumption. I challenge anyone to watch any of the silent movies of Charles Chaplin, and still claim that body language (or non-verbal communication) does not exist!
Gene van Troyer <gevantry@nirai.ne.jp> The staff of Strange Horizons certainly extends our sympathies to those affected by last Tuesday's sad events. I personally feel that it is best to continue with business-as-usual in other respects, as much as possible; the more we allow our daily business to be thrown into chaos, the more we give the terrorists what they desire. For more on my thoughts on this subject, please feel free to visit my online journal, available on my home page. And as regarding Simon Bewick's story, I might suggest that it is in precisely times like these that we must be most aware of the consequences of war -- while we certainly could not know of the timing when the piece was scheduled, I hope that the timing may prove to be more of use than otherwise.
Mary Anne Mohanraj <editor@strangehorizons.com> As regards SH and some response to the world situation - the Speculon banner's been up there for a LONG time now, much longer than it was originally supposed to be, and while I'm grateful, I certainly think it would be appropriate to replace it with a link to the Red Cross or something similar (ideally, something more obscure, that many wouldn't think of - the fireman's relief fund, or something. I'm sure Mary Anne probably knows a few of those).
Timprov <timprov@hotmail.com> This river story makes little if no sense in the end, and is rather ugly in light of real events in the world.
David H. Body language in humans exists, but matters in only a minor way, and more often is open to subjective interpretation than to any kind of scientific thought. And, I'm surprised to see no mention of the world situation here. K.S.
K.S. Voutielle Re: J Dykes comment that "body language" doesn't exist. Having majored in (among other things) linguistics, I have to take issue with your statement. Yes, "body language" among both the general human population and animals is quite different from language-based communication. But it is definitely a form of communication. Canines assume various postures to indicate aggression, submission, arousal, and so on. These postures are obviously understood by the other canines towards which they are directed -- how can you not call that communication? Then there's the fact that when you talk to somebody over the phone, your interaction with them is hindered by the fact that you cannot see their gestures and facial expressions, which convey part of their meaning. Text further hinders communication by eliminating tone, rhythm, and other cues that would convey connotation. If I present the sentence, "Yeah, he's a real winner," you can't tell, without those non-linguistic cues, whether it is intended seriously, or would have a sarcastic spin, and thus mean exactly the opposite of its "literal" meaning. Finally, I suspect "speakers" of American Sign Language would find your comment uproariously funny. Cheers, R Michael Harman New Media Reviews Editor Johns Hopkins 1999, Cognitive and Computer Sciences
R Michael Harman <rmharman@auros.org> God is a Toaster!!! What a wonderful, refreshing story. I only wish it had been a little longer. I hope Larry and his toaster have a long and happy life. : )
Sharon Schultz <Tillie313@AOL.com> Sorry, I meant to refer to "On the Wall" for my previous comments. All those mirrors confused me... ;) Mike
Michael Jasper <mjasper@nc.rr.com> The illustration for "In a Mirror" was simply fabulous! I've seen Colleen Doran's work before in some of the Sandman comics, but this illo was perfect for the story, which was also pretty good. The sweet innocent girl in the illustration was a nicely ironic contrast from the violent act the girl performs in the story. Well done!
Michael Jasper <mjasper@nc.rr.com> I found Kim Fryer's story "In a Mirror" extremely moving and thought-provoking. The idea of all those alternate worlds where we've made different decisions and had different -- though not always better -- experiences has always fascinated me. I've also stood by helplessly as friends wither and fade under the ruthless power of cancer, and been in the middle as infertility treatments drain both emotional and financial resources. Ms. Fryer has molded all these elements into a story that will stay with me a long time.
Duane Hanson <DMHanson@nvc.net> "In a Mirror" was beautiful. The situation and the emotions were very believable and wrenching.
Stan Campbell <stanzii@bigfoot.com> Thanks for catching these, K.S. We've been updating a lot of the administrative pages around here, and occasionally, links fall through the cracks. If you (or anyone) finds a broken link in future, please feel free to drop a line to Will at webmaster@strangehorizons.com; he'll be delighted to fix it immediately. We do have quite a few staff volunteers; I merely stand at the top and coordinate, while they do all the real work of building the magazine, week-by-week. At WorldCon, in fact, there were four of us -- myself, Jed Hartman (fiction editor), Sunita Bhatia (art editor), and Will Quale (webmaster). I try to hit at least WisCon, WorldCon and World Fantasy most years (though I'll be missing WF this particular year), plus any local cons. Many of our staff attend their local cons (which are all over the place). If you see one of us, come say hi! It's always a pleasure meeting our readers...
Mary Anne Mohanraj <editor@strangehorizons.com> My first time here, & there seem to be a lot of broken links -- the "StaffBios" in "about us", something called www.ravenapress.com, and a few others. I was surprised by the number of staff members here -- I was under the impression from WorldCon that Mohanraj ran this all by herself!
K.S. Voutielle <katrinovo@yahoo.com> What fun to read an interview with John Kessel. Now if you could only get him to offer an online class so that we could all attend! Thanks again for good reasons to keep coming back.
Gavin Grant <info@lcrw.net> Thank you for your comments on my editorial. I was unaware that her husband is an endocrinologist, but I would much rather have *him* presenting the medical issues. I understand that people listen to celebrities: I just wish they weren't regarded as authorities on whatever they chose to speak on. As for diabetics, I have nothing but sympathy and hope for them. I have a close relative who is currently struggling with diabetes. Paul Schumacher ...'long time' I meant to write in previous msg. Furthermore, her husband IS a research endocrinologist. Some of your points, Schu. are well taken but the fact is you picked on the wrong people. A lot of us with diabetes sincerely appreciate what Mary Tyler Moore has done. Face it: People listen to celebrities. We can be thankful they're not all idiots. Some in fact are more intelligent than even you.
Bruce Jensen <flaco@ucla.edu> Mary Tyler Moore has had Type I diabetes for a long. I doubt Paul Schumacher understands what that means: it means that she--like most others with that disease--has, out of necessity, a far greater familiarity with relevant medical issues than Schumacher gives her credit for.
Bruce Jensen <flaco@ucla.edu> "In a Mirror," by Kim Fryer, was a well-written exploration of the possibilities of alternate universes. I liked the focus on the private reasons one would have for exploring other Earths, and the changes that could be provoked by a glimpse into "another" world. The idea that technology could bring people closer together is a welcome one; there is a depressing tendency in many authors to create depressing societies where corporations and individuals do little other than exploit one another for profit and personal gain with the aid of technology. While the cancer was a sad aspect of the story, the growth of the main character was positive, and I think those who have experienced this sort of illness themselves or with loved ones would also find grace in Libby's letting Roger share her grief and pain.
Lisa <seattlevamplover@yahoo.com> "Toaster of the Gods" by Randall Coots brought a welcome laugh over my morning coffee and... you guessed it... toast. As someone who has spent many a rainy afternoon curled up in a chair with a good book and a stack of The World's Most Perfect Food, I give thanks for this story. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some homage to pay to my blender if I expect to get that pitcher of margaritas anytime soon.
Lisa Mantchev "In a Mirror" by Kim Fryer was an excellent story. The idea of parallel worlds has always intrigued me, and apparently it's intriguing the quantum scientists as well as SF authors. Check out the latest Discover magazine for an interesting theory on parallel worlds. Nice work, Strange Horizons and Kim Fryer!
Meryl I found "In a Mirror," by Kim Fryer, intriguing. I have so often thought about my life and the significant junctures where, "If only..." I have even referred to them as "parallel paths." This story delves into this theory and delivers hope as an ending to sci fi self-examination.
Joan Bannan <joan@bannan.com> Non-verbal communication...is an oxymoron. No one can read the mind of another. Guessing what body movements mean and assigning definitions and value to them is bogus. "Body Language." What a joke!
J Dykes <jddykes@msn.com> Unless you're vegan. Or vegetarian. Or an animal rights activist. Or concerned about the authenticity of Mexican food. Or...sorry. I just like this image of the divisive burrito, and have this wonderful picture in my head of the Burrito of Doom replacing the golden apple and starting the Trojan War....
Megan <mhpm@m3ip.org> >>No, it's not venom. But all the whining about the interview strikes me the same as a bunch of people >>who, when given a free dinner at a Mexican restaurant, start complaining that no one told them the >> beef in the burrito wasn't organically raised. A shaky metaphor at best - there are rarely ethical questions buried in burrito ingredients. Are you suggesting that because a zine is "free," it has no standards to meet?
Jason Giannon Thanks for your comments, Jean. Interesting point about favorite writers sometimes writing horror -- agreed about Alan Moore, for example, and Ray Bradbury and Theodore Sturgeon (two of my other favorite writers) have also written a fair bit of horror in their day. (I've been reading the complete Sturgeon short stories series, and the two best (by far) of his earliest stories are horror stories. In fact, one of them ("It") was the inspiration for Swamp Thing, which was the series that first brought Alan Moore to real international prominence.) And, of course, though much of Neil Gaiman's work is more fantasy than horror, Sandman began as a horror series -- the early "Diner of Death" issue was one of the most horrific things I've ever seen in a comic book. (Which, actually, was why I didn't start reading Sandman regularly for a while after that -- that issue was clearly well-written, but the horrific elements were too much for me.) I like your Kilgore Trout Theory of Genre; certainly there are, for example, science fiction stories that I'm fond of for various reasons (usually the Sense Of Wonder they evoke) that I'd be embarrassed to show to someone who isn't a reader of the genre. And yet, I don't think it's quite that simple -- I would call myself a science fiction fan and a fantasy fan, but there are plenty of really bad works in those genres that I'm just not interested in. So maybe it's not so much that we like the worst the genre has to offer (which can be pretty bad), as that we're willing to be a little more forgiving of a genre's quirks and excesses (and genre conventions!) than someone who doesn't read in the genre. I know that I'm less forgiving of what I see as flaws in romance and Westerns, for example, than fans of those genres are... Anyway, good food for thought.
Jed Hartman <fiction@strangehorizons.com> I am new to this site but had to post after reading the fascinating tale "Right Size" by M.L. Konett. The story kept me glued through the finish. I loved it and look forward to more work from Konett.
Jack McCabe <mccabejm@earthlink.net> I've only just discovered "Strange Horizons", and I'm looking forward to having a great time getting to know you better! But I can't wait to respond to Susan Marie Groppi's editorial on horror. My impatience to enter this discussion, I think, comes from the strength with which I share Susan's feelings about horror, but... The thing is, I don't like horror, either. And yet two of my favourite writers are, at least sometimes, horror writers. (They are, since you ask, Alan Moore and Chaz Brenchley - whose writing I like so much that I run his website!). I like them because they are great writers, and because their writing is good enough to take me with them, even when they go into territory I wouldn't otherwise enter. Thinking about this has helped me to formulate the Kilgore Trout Theory of Genre, which is this: when we declare ourselves fans of a particular genre, we are not saying that we like the best it has to offer - of course we do, everyone does - we are saying that we like the worst. SF fans will recognise Kilgore Trout as Kurt Vonnegut's fictitious author, who was a terrible writer but had great ideas: this is an honourable status in SF, which is read by people who appreciate some of the fine writers working in the genre, but also by people who can tolerate bad writing because they get so excited by great ideas. Similarly, people who really enjoy being frightened and revolted will extract those sensations even from Susan's despised gore-and-giant-cockroaches creepies; those who don't may still be seduced into it by Moore's magnificent "From Hell" or Chaz's horror shorts... So where do we take it from here? And how does this connect with Mary Anne's editorial on genre-bending? That's for another time, I've said quite enough already...
Jean Rogers <jean@outremer.co.uk> Loved Mack Knopf's interview with Andy Duncan. Mack's questions were just the sort I'd have asked given the opportunity -- and that's exactly how readers should respond to an interview, isn't it? Andy's views on the writing life in general and on Southern writers in particular were fascinating, and his advice to beginners was both insightful and encouraging. Thanks for running this entertaining and extremely informative piece.
Nancy Proctor <nproctor@mindspring.com> I am writing in response to "Right Size." I will join my voice with the person above who said that this story was touching without being sentimental. I don't know how the author managed to capture with words the complex simplicity of friendship, but Konett did just that. As if that weren't enough, Konett created a wonderful character in the story's narrator. Johnnie was genuine and believable. Given some of the totally unrealistic "kids" portrayed in the media (take your pick from Full House, for example, although I'm embarassed to admit I've seen the show), it must take an artist's skill to give such a warm voice to a complex child character. I'll be back to make sure I don't miss any more stories by this author.
Sara Jacobs <sarajc@asu.edu> ML Konett sure has a knack for detail and tension. Her short fiction reads just like that marble that slips around the mouth of her characters and gains weight in those Mason jars as the story progresses. It'd be interesting to see what she could do with a slightly longer format, though perhaps more of these homespun-style historically based vignettes are her calling. I'd be interested in reading more history-inspired science fiction from writers as talented as Konett.
Geof Carter <geof.carter@asu.edu> What a great story! I was spellbound, sure want to hear more from M.L. Konett
Linda Stowell <presyap@webtv.net> 'Right Size' is a very engaging story. I like the perspective and the way it flows. Seeing through the eyes of the two boys really allows you feel the story, rather than just read it. I would like to see more works by this author.
Zorkmid <zorkmid@optonline.net> 'Right Size' by M.L.Konett Among ML Konett's arts & crafts, writing is her shining armour. I'll keep this one with my collections, and read from it as often.
Betsy Roegner <Sunbet@juno.com> In 'Right Size' by ML Konett, her insight into depicted character's eternal battle for existence, then grief, stamped her maturity of vision. It justifies her reader's enthusiasm.
Alejandro Soo <alsoo@juno.com> Right Size is an awesome, butt-kickin' story and I am going to tell my buddy Tim to check it out. Nobody knows how important it is to find the right size stuff more than I do. Sebastian X
Sebastian <pook@rainbowbridge.com> I just finished reading "Right Size." I'm not the biggest fiction fan, however, this story actually sucked me in from the beginning. The perspective that it gives is of a young child, seeing things through his eyes. It conjures up very nice imagery, and really helps in the storytelling. I loved the story, and would like to see more. Keep up the good work. :)
Robert Cook <dolphyn@dsl.telocity.com> On Medusa at Morning: How unfair and ironic to issue an "I dare you" challenge in a situation like that. Although I suppose life is unfair and ironic, as well. I enjoyed it. Well written, descriptive and personal.
Pete <el_oso_jefe@hotmail.com> i became so wrapped up in the story line i forgot my cake in the oven; oops! i really love reading fiction, although as a teacher i don't have much free time. but, i would enjoy seeing M.L. Konett in print, in a full length novel; this is one author that has the talent to describe the surroundings to you until you actually believe you are there, and that is a rare gift. i enjoyed the story a great deal. thank you M.L. Konett Cindy zephyrhills, fl.
cindy fettig <cfettig689@aol.com> i am an avid fiction reader; with the likes of steven king, john grisham, john saul, etc. i think you get the idea. "Right Size" was both entrapping and mysterious. you get caught up in the story line and can't stop; kind of like peanuts. i am always looking for new fiction writers since my favorites don't write fast enough for me. i would love to see M.L. Konett put into a full length book, i know that this author would more than hold my attention deborah orlando, fl.
deborah gierach <magpie245@aol.com> I really liked M.L. Konett's story "Right Size." I thought the use of an age 9 perspective made the work more mysterious, because we know _we_ would glean much more info right away from the 'aliens'. I would like to see more from this author. Thank you.
Rachel I studied writing with M.L. Konett at Clarion in 1997. Her story "Right Size" is exactly the kind of fiction -- poignant, personal, and insightful -- that I have enjoyed seeing from her in the past. I can't wait to read her next one.
Marguerite Devers I just read Right Size by M.L.Konett, and although I am not a Science Fiction fan, I found this piece quite spell binding. I read it as a favor to ML's Mom and was pleased that I did. I kept finding myself skipping ahead to see what was coming next. I could just imagine two little boys wandering around in the wilderness looking for pebbles that are just the right size. Awesome writing. Thanks for the opportunity to share this.
Sally <IamScerenity> Just finished reading "One-Eyed Jack" by Connie Wilkins. Original and well written. And it made me go "Ew", but then what else is horror for?
Robin H Mike, Kick ass poem. It had a dark creepy tone, I loved it. Also loved the descriptive adjectives u used for the girl. Keep up the poetry, I don't know how anyone could turn u down. Ur awesome! Keep it up, Brandon
Brandon Verfaillie <enterthedragon196@hotmail.com> Very much enjoyed "Right Size" by M. L. Konett. Read like a smart mix of Steinbeck, Bradbury, and Harper Lee. Also nice to hear of publication from Salt Lake (where I'm from). I'll certainly pass along the site to friends. Best of luck.
Bill Cuthbertson I enjoyed "In the Shade of the Tree of Knowledge" by Michael Chant. His imagery and tone are well executed, the theme is relevant, and the reclamation scene riveting. Good work.
Ralan <writer@ralan.com> ML Konett's "Right Size" is wonderfully evocative and deft in its use of a nine year old's point of view. It certainly captures the feel of an Okie migrant worker camp which, when you think of it, is a logical place for stranded aliens to end up (people wouldn't care if you were from Kansas or Tau Ceti...)
Alice Mayio Oh, I forgot to mention that I was referring to the "Right Size" novel.
Shaytan <novosib@yahoo.com> I know good writing when I see one. This is definitely good writing. Good language, well-written. Easy flowing narration as well. And the story is quite imaginative too. I personally think it has Bradbury feel to it. Thank you for enjoyable read.
Shaytan <novosib@yahoo.com> Thank you for bringing us "Right Size" by ML Konett. It was moving without being blatantly sentimental and very firmly grounded in time and place. I found myself wanting to know more about Petey and his family and feeling wistful and sad and also warm at the end. I hope to see more from this author in the future.
Catherine Shaffer <cshaffer@umich.edu> Chris makes some really good points about ML Konett's "Right Size" and its affirmation that a return to home (even if under changed circumstances) can be possible. I also liked how the story presented the giving nature of true friendship, as well as its tolerance of difference. ML uses telling detail and Johnnie's voice to paint, in broad but subtle strokes, a migrant labor camp of the 1930s. I felt as if I were really there.
Cliff Winnig <cwinnigNOSPAMyahoo.com (please make nospam subst.)> I have three words to describe this poem: "Creepy", "Intelligent", and "Chant". The engrossing spookiness of Mike's work is his own. I look forward to seeing more of his work posted in the near future.
Rob Yoass ML Konett's story, "Right Size," was a fabulous read, in all senses of that word. A sad and nostalgic journey back to a period of our history that is often overlooked. The narrator's voice is by turns charming and heart-breaking. What's most admirable about this story is the quiet fierceness of its theme: We can go home again. Exile is not a permanent condition, as many authors would have us believe. Thank you for this story, ML Konett.
Chris It was a pleasure to read Chris Barzak's review of Kelly Link's Stranger Things Happen. I'm so glad to see that her book, which is filled with some of the most exciting and innovative prose in the genre, has found such a sensitive and knowledgeable reviewer! Thank you, Strange Horizons, for bringing attention to one of my favorite writers, and thank you, Chris Barzak, for doing it so well! After reading Chris' review, I had to read his short story, "Plenty." What a beautiful and satisfying story! I look forward to reading more of his stories in the future! Theodora Goss
Theodora Goss <tgoss@bu.edu> I just wanted to remark on Susan's editorial regarding horror stories. When I first started writing, it seemed all I ever did was write horror tales. I think back to some of my earliest stories and shudder. Not from the mood evoked, mind you, but rather their lousy style. Most of them were the grisly sort Susan mentioned her distaste for. I remember when splatter-punk was the rage and now it has gone the way of the pager. The thing is, I've discovered since then that good fiction, whatever its genre, can evoke many different emotions. And while I do enjoy getting a good thrill and scare now and then, I think I prefer experiencing a wider range of emotions. I think one of the reasons horror has shown a downward slide in the trade is because it often sets a mood of limited range. There have been fantasy novels that have made me cry with joy and sorrow, shudder with apprehension and fear, and stir me with a sense of wonder. I think I'm not alone in wanting a 'seven-course meal' at my banquet rather than a simple fare of spooky terrors.
Steve Berman <sberman8@yahoo.com> Although I may not choose to use words like melancholy or urban fantasy, due to my lack of literary lingo and knowledge, I must say that "Plenty," by Christopher Barzak, touched my heart. I found the words to feel so real that I think I could taste cream cheese on celery! May you always feel inspired to write stories like this. Patiently awaiting your first novel......... Amie,O.K.
Amie <Chiltons74@cs.com> Lest you think I like only longer stories, I thought Medusa at Morning was a lovely, wistful mood piece. :-)
Cliff Winnig <cwinnigNOSPAMyahoo.com> I wanted to say how much I enjoyed The Anthvoke. The longer, 2-part stories give more time for in-depth character development, which was, of course, the meat of this story. The setting was interesting too; shades of _Dhalgren_. I'm glad to learn that he's writing more stories in that world.
Cliff Winnig <cwinnigNOSPAMyahoo.com> I agree with Mr. Ellison. Coping another persons works without their permission is wrong.
Paul Ellsworth <pcellsworth@earthlink.net> I wanted to say how much I liked reading THE ANTHVOKE by Steve Berman. He really portrayed the characters with a lot of tenderness. I was actually surprised that a guy wrote this story. Not to sound sexist, but sometimes you just think an author can't get into another sex's (or race's or faith's) skin. But he did it very well.
Marie Leventhal <voodoo1313@aol.com> Hi - I just wanted to respond to Greg G's points about my story, but first I'd like to say thanks so much for reading my story and taking the time to respond to it. I love getting feedback from folks who have read something I've written and shared their opinions about it. It's quite a thrill. I'm glad you liked the concepts I put forth in the story, and am sorry you didn't like the ending's "fuzziness". I worried about that as well, ending it without showing the crucial meeting between Terri and Nonami the alien, but I wanted this to be Terri's story, and show how she was changed by the aliens and the explosions. I guess I came at the conclusion from a different angle, in a way. In any case, I'm glad you read the story and enjoyed it! Thanks again for your feedback. I genuinely appreciate it. Now, what's wrong with humanoid aliens? ;) (Actually, I've had a couple people mention this dislike for too-human aliens). Take care, Mike
Michael Jasper <mjasper@gateway.net> The Anthvoke, by Steve Berman, was a lovely read. I particularly enjoyed the letters. The epistolary form always lends a sense of intimacy to storytelling, in my own opinion, so this one was a winner from the start. The author has a keen eye for characters and a compassionate vision.
Chris Glad you liked "The Anthvoke," Nancy. Wanted to mention that Steve's upcoming print collection Trysts will contain at least one other story set in the Fallen Area; contact him (by clicking his name in his bio at the end of the story) for more information.
Jed Hartman <fiction@strangehorizons.com> EXPLOSIONS, MJ Jasper. I found this story clear and easy to read with some interesting ideas and meanings. However, on the negative side, I was disappointed with the lack of resolution of the story questions presented although some were suggested at. I also tend to cringe at stories with very humanoid aliens, especially if they arrive on Earth and integrate but I think the author just got away with it in this case.
Greg G <greg.guerin@student.adelaide.edu.au> I enjoyed Steve Berman's story. The world he envisioned was vivid and memorable (in fact, it wouldn't be a bad backdrop for a novel) and the emotional lives of his characters were both realistically portrayed and hauntingly tender. Lovely work.
Nancy Proctor <nproctor@mindspring.com> Enjoyed Jamie's article on gaming. It's certainly interesting to see how PC gaming has elevated itself beyond its former position as preferred geek pastime to now enjoy some cultural esteem. I have to say though, that my view is that the most visceral and immediate gratification offered by gaming will always be the unscripted, spontaneous variety ie. meeting up with peoples of all races and creeds in cyberspace. And fragging them into polygonal giblets!
James Allison <jamesrallison@hotmail.com> I found the article on games interesting, but I have to say that my experience as a player is that games benefit from a good story, but those that try too hard to adhere to a plot from a movie or book tend to fall flat. The interactivity of games requires a very different approach. The author needs to account for different players' styles, for variations in how much time tasks may require of different players, and so on. The very best games, the ones that create new genres and sell oodles of copies years after their release -- in other words, games like Myst (or Final Fantasy VII, which completely altered developers' perceptions of the storytelling possibilities of console gaming) -- these games have the depth given by a "mythos" or "back-story", without the constraints of a known linear plot and characters of whom players have expectations. Some games seem to do a fine job with an existing mythos. Personally, I haven't played any I liked, but I'm told that some of the Dune games and the Blade Runner game were excellent -- but then, the Blade Runner game doesn't include Decker, and the Dune game which received the most praise was a strategy game with little dependence on the characters from the books. Anyways. This is mostly rambling. I suppose my conclusion is that, yes, it'd be great to see more creative authors get into the medium of games and other forms of interactive storytelling; but they're going to have to learn new techniques. R Michael Harman New Media Reviews Editor
R Michael Harman <rmharman@auros.org> Jason, No, it's not venom. But all the whining about the interview strikes me the same as a bunch of people who, when given a free dinner at a Mexican restaurant, start complaining that no one told them the beef in the burrito wasn't organically raised.
Paul Garza It's not "venom" to point out that disclosure would be a good idea prior to an interview, it's just a bit of constructive criticism. The "lower-class" feel of s/sf that is mentioned here is only endorsed by all the righteous indignation by those involved, rather than a simple acknowledgment that the point was heard.
Jason Giannon James Allison's "A Private Unbinding of Time" is a stunning tale, beautifully rendered. I was moved. Thank you for publishing writing of such high quality. Roger
Roger Eichorn <kynslock@mediaone.net> I just read the article Lucy A. Snyder did on Gary A. Braunbeck. I thought it was one of the best interviews I've read in a long time. I came into the this forum to say so and was surprised to see such venom about the interview. So what if they know each other? So what if Lucy has co-written stories. I don't see how that is germane to the interview. As Gary points out in his response on this board, many authors and interviewers know one another prior to an interview. The interview had more in-depth, pertinent questions than most interviews. Instead of focusing on the interviewer, the article focuses on the interviewee -- this is rare to find. No gloating, no bragging, no 'I'm better than you' -- all just information presented in a pleasant form. I enjoyed reading how Gary gets his inspiration from music and life. I loved the humor of the little girl being scared. It was interesting to hear Gary's take on religion and how it affects his writing. (for those impaired ... this next bit is sarcasm, look it up) Did you notice they have the SAME MIDDLE INITIAL? Ohmigod -- they're discriminating against those without an "A"! And they never truly disclosed it.
Carol Seller <carp@bemail.org> I was a little confused when I heard that Lucy was coming under some criticism for the interview she conducted with me which is currently running on the SH website. After reading the comments posted here, I am no less confused, but as an added bonus, I find that I'm also a bit irritated. I'm going to address 2 specific points. Lucy has no "vested, financial interest" in my success. The interview posted here--which varies in both length and structure from the version which will be appearing in the SORTIES collection--would have been done by her whether or not we had written four stories together. Adding the interview as an afterword was a last-minute brainstorm of Brian Hopkins', and since it needed to be done fairly quickly, he asked Lucy to conduct it because A) He knew Lucy and I were friends, and B) At the time, we lived in the same city, so arranging the time and place for the interview was quite easy. (And for the record, at the time this interview was conducted, if memory serves, we had written only one story together. The reason I was pleased that Brian wanted her to do it was because Lucy had a fairly good handle on how I work, how the ideas appear, etc. I would rather be interviewed by someone with a decent knowledge of my work than by someone who's coming at me cold.) On the matter of her having designed my personal website...I *paid* her to do that (in fact, I still owe her some money for it) because she does it professionally. As for the comment that she "does" my web page for me, I'd advise you to go back to my page and take a gander at the "last updated" fine print at the bottom of the first page. Lucy designed and put up the page quite a while ago, and it's my job to keep it updated--something which my writing schedule and recent health problems has obviously not allowed me to do. This particular nit that was picked is a non-issue, and I'm sorry that the subject was even broached. I would however like for someone to explain to me how Lucy's not mentioning that she and I have written together qualifies as a "conflict of interest." Her not mentioning it, by the by (and it is a testament to her integrity and grace that she failed to mention what follows) was *my* idea. When she told me that SH had agreed to run the interview, I was absolutely delighted. This is a superb site that offers readers the rare pleasure of a genuinely literate webzine. It does not assume that its readers were weaned on STAR WARS and DOOM and have both the intelligence and attention span of a cow fetus. I was honored that SH wanted to run the interview, as was Lucy. I suggested to her that she not mention that we had worked together because I was afraid that it would taint both her personal integrity, as well as that of Strange Horizons and the interview itself. When she asked why I thought that, I told her that it's been my experience that there's always someone out there who's more than willing to make a tempest in a teapot, which, as far as I'm concerned, is what has happened here. I am in no way belittling the concerns of Simon and Jill (though I strongly disagree with their conclusions, both nonetheless expressed those opinions well and succinctly, unlike what I'm doing now), nor do I mean to imply or for anyone to infer that those who shares Simon and Jill's views are stuffed full of wild blueberry muffins. I simply want anyone who cares to know that I was *very happy* with the interview, that Lucy has no "vested, financial interest" at stake if I succeed or fail in my career, and that the exclusion of our having written 4 stories together was not her choice, it was mine, so if you feel obligated to question anyone's motives, come to me. All that aside, I would like to say that I agree with the concerns about journalistic integrity, but I don't think they apply here. Ed Bryant has been friends with Dan Simmons and Stephen King for years, something he never mentions when reviewing their books, and I don't believe anyone has ever accused him of what Lucy has been accused of here. Nor should they. Look, folks, those of us who work in the sf/f/h fields know all too well that the number of people who are all too willing to look down their noses at us or point fingers and accuse us of sloppiness or worse, is legion. Despite (or maybe because of) the popularity of these genres, we have enough enemies to guard against as it is; we don't need to start turning on each other. With all that out of the way, it is my fervent hope that this issue will quickly fizzle before it turns into something serious. No one here needs the frustration. Lucy conducted a fine, in-depth interview, one she should be damned proud of, and one which readers should appreciate for its intelligence, pointedness, and structure. I mean, *c'mon*...look what the poor woman had to work with! It's a wonder she made the interview as compelling as she did. I ain't that interesting. Gary A. Braunbeck
Gary A. Braunbeck <gbraunbeck@mindspring.com> Agreed, that was quite strange. And while were pointing out mistakes, the 'editorials' here are strange also. Famous people are used as 'expert' spokespeople for things because they draw attention and its a good thing. If you had a child with a disability you'd want the most famous person available as your "expert spokesperson" to draw press and attention. No one suggests that they are scientists or researchers. And last, the water-proof erotica book sold a lot of copies because it was heavily marketed as a waterproof gimmick, a kind of sex toy. Many erotica books 'cross genres', but few are meant to play with.
John A. Locke Re the conflict in the interview - It's not "fatal," but it's sloppy journalism and a poor editorial decision here. It is simple enough to state the interests up front, and then the interview takes on a different slant
S. A. Galston <sgal783@yahoo.com> ? The interview begins with an introduction to/promotion of Braunbeck's work. It is listed as a reprint originally appearing in one of those works cited in the original paragraph. How is that anything other than disclosure?
Megan <mhpm@m3ip.org> Jill and Simon, I am sorry to see that you feel that my interview with Gary A. Braunbeck was somehow misleading or unethical. And while Mary Anne has addressed the issue well in her message below, I feel I must also address your concerns. I did not mention my collaborations with Gary in the interview because, to be frank, I didn't think it was terribly relevant. An interview's about the subject, not the interviewer, and considering he's had something over 200 short stories published, the four we wrote together are a pretty insignificant number from his end of things. Furthermore, anyone who's familiar with either his work of mine knows we've collaborated. One need only visit his site, or mine, or read my bio here at SH to be made aware of this. If I were really trying to pull a fast one on Strange Horizon's astute and web-savvy readership, don't you think I'd at least have used a pseudonym? :-) Simon, you state that I have a "vested, financial interest in his success." No, I don't. Gary's success or lack thereof has no bearing on my own finances. I receive no money from the sale of his novels, or stories, or anything else he produces. He didn't pay me to write the interview (Brian A. Hopkins, the editor who initially comissioned the piece, did). He didn't even buy my lunch at the interview ;-) I redesigned Gary's website, yes -- but that's what I do for a living. Almost all of my clients are people I've met through writing or editing. An interview of this type is not investigative journalism, nor is it a review. An interview is intended to raise public awareness of a subject of interest and to provide insights into his/her life and thoughts. A journalist does an interview like this for one of two reasons: (1) he or she finds the subject fascinating or otherwise worthy of interviewing, or (2) an editor gives him or her the interview as an assignment. I was a fan of Gary's work well before he and I collaborated on any projects. I have interviewed other authors such as Neil Gaiman and William Peter Blatty, and I chose to interview them precisely because I enjoyed their work, wanted to learn more about them, and felt others would want to learn more about them, too. Because I was (and am) a fan of these writers' work and am happy to promote them, that of course means that I am lacking in disinterested journalistic objectivity. Does that make my interviews with Gaiman and Blatty somehow illegitimate? I think not -- the disinterested, unknowledgeable journalist makes for a pretty poor interview. This interview came about when Brian A. Hopkins, the editor of Lone Wolf Publications, asked me to write an afterword for Gary's new CD collection. He suggested the interview format. He asked me to do the piece precisely because I have worked with Gary -- he knew I was very familiar with his work and could come up with some good questions to ask. And I conducted the interview with Gary in exactly the same manner as I've conducted all the other interviews I've done. And I actually learned a lot about him I hadn't known before ... just like with all the other interviews I've done. Cheers, Lucy S.
Lucy A. Snyder <lusnyde@indiana.edu> Jill and Simon, While I appreciate your concern about a possible conflict of interest, I don't think the issue really applies here. It is certainly true that when writing a review of an author's work, it's important to be up front about any connections between you and the author. In a review, the reviewer is trying to give you a fair sense of whether this is a book you might want to buy, and so it's important for the reader to know if the reviewer might be unbiased. We may carry reviews in the future written by people who know the author they're reviewing, but if so, we'll make every effort to make sure that relationship is clear to our readers, so that they can make an informed decision about how much they want to trust in the review. At the same time, it's important to keep in mind that spec fic is really a pretty small field. If you go to a few conventions a year as a professional author or editor, before too long you'll know an awful lot of individuals in the field. You'll have drinks with them in the bar, be on panels together, end up buying or selling stories from/to them, etc. It's really a pretty complex web of relationships, and if you're concerned about this kind of issue, you might be safer just assuming that everyone reviewing does know everyone they review. If they don't yet, they probably will soon. As for Lucy's interview, I don't believe that an interview needs to attempt to be "fair" in the same way that a review would. In fact, some of the best interviews are done by people who know the interviewee intimately -- and thus know what are the best questions to ask them. I'm quite sure that Lucy wasn't actively avoiding mentioning that she knew Gary -- sometimes that kind of thing just doesn't come up in the course of an interview, or an interviewer might forget to mention it. For an interview, rather than a review, I would consider that optional information.
Mary Anne Mohanraj <editor@strangehorizons.com> Journalistic ethics would have required Lucy Snyder to fully disclose any relationships with her interview subject. I am quite distressed at Strange Horizons for running this article.
Jill Gee, Lucy Snyder has co-written a number of stories with Gary Braunbeck, but she doesn't mention it in the article. And she does his website. She has a vested, financial interest in his success. This article is a conflict of interest.
Simon I thought James Allison's "A Private Unbinding of Time" was wonderful, both moving and surreal. I look forward to reading more of his work. SarahP
Sarah Prineas <sprineas@gmx.net> I am always amazed by Tim Pratt's poetry; in fact, the poetry in general in Strange Horizons is always of the highest quality. Enjoyed the Lovecraft article, though as a Lovecraft scholar myself I might nitpick a few of his facts...but I won't. It's just cool that he's still being remembered. Denise Dumars
Denise Dumars <eerieaerie@hotmail.com> Glad to hear that you like "Explosions." Wanted to mention, in case it wasn't clear, that this story is a prequel to Mike's previous story "Crossing the Camp"; if you want more about the Wannoshay and haven't yet read that one, by all means read it. (There's also another Wannoshay story, "Mud and Salt," which was published in Writers of the Future, Volume 16.) Also wanted to note that you can generally click our illustrations to see a larger version of the art; as in the case of Martin Gruelle's rendition of Nonami, it's often worth looking at the larger version to get more detail if you have the bandwidth for it.
Jed Hartman <fiction@strangehorizons.com> enjoyed mike jasper's "explosions," especially the title concept, that there are all kinds of explosions in people's lives, some obvious and some not so obvious but just as consequential. for me, that kind of thinking lifts this tale over a single-concept alien-nation story.
mark siegel <mskyranch@aol.com> Really liked Mike Jasper's "Explosions." The aliens seem very real and believable and mysterious enough to keep them (and the story) very interesting. The human characters are very sympathetic and believable, too. A cool story. I'd love to read more about the Wannoshay. Also, having spent 8 years of my life in Wisconsin, I can only hope it was the Old Milwaukee plant that was blown up.
Frank Wu <qarlo999@hotmail.com> Just wanted to say how pleased I was to see the wonderful painting by Martin Gruelle for my story. Mr. Gruelle was able to bring to life the alien Nonami in a way that I had only envisioned in my head before. The look on her face is perfect, as is the alien-ness of her body. I couldn't see the detail on the Strange Horizons website, but on the larger graphic on Martin's website I could even see the spiral design on Nonami's hand! Mr. Gruelle's painting has a depth to it that I really, really appreciate, and I'm glad Strange Horizons is continuing to use original art for their stories. This painting made my day.
Michael Jasper <mjasper@gateway.net> I very much enjoyed "Explosions" by Michael Jasper. Well-written with real, believable, characters. I look forward to seeing more of Jasper's work.
Paul Martens <paulemartens@hotmail.com> October to December, 2001, Comments July to September, 2001, Comments April to June, 2001, Comments January to March, 2001, Comments September to December, 2000, Comments
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