Many writers talk about “Shitty First Drafts,” to use the term coined by Anne Lamott in Bird by Bird. These are your horrific first attempts at your story. They’re hairy with adjectives, and stumble about on improperly placed limbs. I like to call them “ugly duckling” drafts because, despite their deformity, they are merely good …
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Science Tidbits: Moon Colonies, Genetic Circuits, and Throwing Rocks at Earth
On Bad Astronomy, I found this video featuring Phil Plait and Dr. Karin Bondar. In the video, Phil speaks briefly on the possibility of applying 3-D printing technology to building settlements on the moon—an option actually under development by NASA. Karin follows up with an equally fascinating development: biologists are manipulating DNA in a manner …
SFWC, Self-Publishing and the Second Renaissance
I just returned from the San Francisco Writer’s Conference. This is my first year in attendance, and in the aftermath I have so much to say that my thoughts render me mute. What do I feel? I think I feel like I have finally come home. The conference is of too great a scope for …
This Week on Runicfire: Feb 18 – 24
Runicfire is entering its second week, and we have another roster of posts. Here’s what to expect: Today, Monday the 18th, I reflect on the San Francisco Writer’s Conference and the possibility of a second Renaissance. This Wednesday, the 20th, a brief post on recent developments in science. And for Friday the 22nd I explore the …
Short Story: A Glitch in the Timing
As a Friday treat to you all, I am posting an older short story of mine. It’s called “A Glitch in the Timing.” It’s about Esau Alexander, a detective of the gilded city of Starfall who, against his better judgment, pursues a missing persons case—pro bono. I hope you enjoy it! Read and download “A …
The Renaissance: Real and Reimagined
This is the first part of a series in which I discuss a portion of the research behind Rosaria of Venice, my forthcoming alternate-history novel, and other matters related to that research. If you like what you read, please keep an eye out for new updates, and tell your friends! There was a time, centuries …
This Week on Runicfire: February 11–17, 2013
Today marks the beginning of Runicfire’s first full week of operation, and also a busy and exciting time for its author! Here’s a look at what’s in store for the next seven days: I will be attending the San Francisco Writer’s Conference from Thursday through Saturday. I hope to learn a lot more about the …
Mr. or Ms. Reader, I Presume! Allow Me to Introduce Myself.
Dear Reader, Welcome to Runicfire! You are no doubt wondering where on Earth you are, and who the blazes this bespectacled, bearded man pictured on the right sidebar happens to be. Worry not. You will have your answers soon, but be warned: you may get a tale out of the bargain. My name is Aaron …
Test Post
Testing out the new blog. It’s taking some time getting used to Blogger, so I expect this page to be an ugly little duckling for a while. An ugly little duckling who so happens to be on fire.