There’s nothing wrong with sharing motivation, not only to try and get yourself on the right track, but it feels good when you’re able to motivate others. January 1st is the time when many of us set goals for the year. Maybe we want to lose weight, get in shape, learn a new language, finish…
Best Book Lists [Books]
Yes, it’s that time of year. Everyone is publishing lists of the best books of 2022. The lists include the top ten (or more), the best in various genres, best books for women, best for men, best for children, and even celebrity favorites. To me, lists like these are subjective. Everyone has different tastes. To…
Moving to Mastodon [Writing]
So I had been planning on getting back on Twitter recently, but right after I made the decision the company was bought by Elon Musk. At first, I didn’t care one way or another about it and decided to wait a bit and see what happened. My backup plan was to move to Mastodon, which…
Review – Dark Matter [Books]
Earlier this year, I was looking for a new short story collection to read. I’ve been trying to expand outside of the usual speculative fiction arena and read authors from other cultures, ethnicities, and genders. I feel it allows me insight into others that I might not otherwise have. I’ve already read speculative fiction collections…
Reading for a Longer Life [Books]
I recently stumbled upon a study conducted by Yale University’s School of Public Health that found a link between reading and longer life spans. The study, conducted over twenty-plus years, found that, “Compared to non-book readers, book readers had a 23-month survival advantage…” I find that fascinating. This goes to show the importance of reading….
Experimenting with Landscapes [Painting]
It’s no secret I love nature, whether it’s spending time with the plants in my yard or hiking through the local nature preserves and parks. Nature speaks to me. It reinvigorates me. That’s why I’ve been experimenting with landscape painting. It’s not only a way to pay homage to the natural settings I love so…
Review – Elric of Melniboné: The Elric Saga Part 1 [Books]
Elric of Melniboné is a difficult character to describe, but I find him fascinating. First appearing in print back in 1961, Elric was immediately described as an anti-hero. I don’t disagree, but author Michael Moorcock created a character far more complex than a simple anti-hero. And he built a multi-verse that is both beautiful and terrifying. …
A Painting for Halloween [Painting]
For one of my favorite holidays, I thought I’d share a recent Halloween-themed painting I did. No, it’s not museum quality. Or even worthy of hanging on my refrigerator, but it was fun to do. Hope you have a happy Halloween! RB
Choosing a Book to Read [Books]
What are your criteria for choosing the next book to read? The question occurred to me the other day when I discovered a guide to navigating National Public Radio’s (NPR) Top 100 Science Fiction and Fantasy Books. It’s an interesting way to find something that appeals to my tastes. However, keep in mind the chart…
A Music Moment – King Crimson [Music]
When it comes to experimental progressive music, there aren’t many groups that can compete with King Crimson. Over the decades they’ve blended everything from classical, jazz, and folk, to electronic, industrial, and new wave. They’ve incorporated African rhythms, post-punk, minimalism, and free improvisation. While they are classified as a rock band, I think they are…