Damn, 350 comments despite my semi boycott of the redundant Crazy Train posts.

Someone needs to tell this clone moron to get a life.

5 So no OT stuff about the NFL, guys. You've got your own thread for that now.

Can we still talk about boobies?

*_{Open except for the Forbidden Topic. You know the one I'm talking about.}

O'Donnell? Footsball? Please enlighten. I'm confused.

Someone needs to tell this clone moron to get a life.

GET A LIFE!  _{feel better?}

What's with the super late ONT posts?

17 Broken in 6 posts. Blah.

New league record!

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 19, 2010 09:49 PM (Yq+qN)

It must have been the other forbidden topic.  My bad... I think.

I'll post a Shorpy now, since I won't be awake @ the other end of the ONT.

A Splendid Outing: 1901

Such fascinating little details.

What's with the super late ONT posts?

Umm, said from someone lamening how frequently he posts.

*dons "L" for loser against my forehead*

Posted by: Monty at September 19, 2010 09:56 PM (wUa1V)

Why is the renaissance man trying to be a sub moron?

No really, why Monty?  You have a reputation to uphold.  Geezus.

You know, I love fall, but I have to say, I avoid tv commercials this time of  year.

There are some truly shiteous movies put out my Hollywood and it seems they really to cash in on the scary ones. The trailers freak me the hell out. Name a scary movie trailer (actually, please don't!), I will tell you've I've either screamed in horror as I reach for the remote -or- run out of the room when I can't find the remove.

Let's see if I can disguise my question so it doesn't violate the forbidden topic, because I was depending on the saner minds in the ONT to answer it.

Hypothetically, if a sports writer writing about Matt Hasselback says something about Matt having done the forbidden lambada on a religious table decorated with vital fluid, is that a hyperbole, or was that actually what Matt said when he went on the View to hang out with his sister-in-law?

Gattaca is excellent.

I can't wait for the future.  Soylent Double Downs.

Umm, said from someone lamening how frequently he posts.

*dons "L" for loser against my forehead*

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 09:55 PM (bfMqE)

I'm convinced you sent Maet some titty shots to avoid being put on the list.

Loved "Anathem".  I'm probably the only one that did.

Yes you probably are. Damn that book was inconceivably verbose and required sentence diagramming and flow charts and 15 philosophy textbooks to get through.

Posted by: katya, the designated driver at September 19, 2010 09:48 PM (LYDZs)

Nice dress though.

Loved "Anathem".  I'm probably the only one that did.

Yes you probably are. Damn that book was inconceivably verbose and required sentence diagramming and flow charts and 15 philosophy textbooks to get through.

This is why subgeniuses like me preferred Cryptonomicon.  WWII commando raids, code breaking, and treasure hunting are much more understandable.

I'm convinced you sent Maet some titty shots to avoid being put on the list.

You... you.... slanderer!

Watched Logan's Run the other night. 

It's also a book--a short read, but does a good job of explaining a lot of the backstory.

Monty and books...hold on while I get my morning coffee.

(Not said mockingly. Love the Sunday book thread.  Even if I read it 5 hours later, shaking off a hangover.)

Posted by: Peaches at September 19, 2010 10:05 PM (sVu2f)

That was a good series until the last two books written by Herbert.  They did not make much sense to me.

C. S. Lewis wrote a Space Trilogy -- Out of the Silent Planet, Perelandra, and That Hideous Strength.

I just started that series a couple months ago.  So far, only have read the first one.  Pretty good.  I'm looking forward to the next two.

For all its obvious flaws, Star Wars was a huge improvement.

Star Wars was fun.  My main requirement for a book or movie is that it be fun.  I hate being preached at.  I hate things that are too analytical.  I want it to be fun. 

Posted by: B. Quayle at September 19, 2010 10:10 PM (uCjoj)

Sock lesson.....

How.     do.    I. get. in. charge.     of. these. lists.      ?

Much better.

Posted by: Mætenloch at September 19, 2010 10:07 PM (vfNQj)

Gotta disagree.  Sci fi is not really my preferred reading, but when I read Dune, I couldn't put it down.  Really a terrific read, I would think, no matter what your usual genre.

The Day of the Triffids is a good sci-fi book. I have trouble reading Ursula LeGuin books now because I made the mistake of taking a "Women in Literature" class in college and it sort of ruined her for  me.

And, speaking of sci-fi books, I am disappearing once again because I have a cake decorated with Godzilla destroying Seattle to create tonight. But, first a plug for a store that had the most awesome customer service ever, it is called Monster Valley Toys, they have a website, and if you need anything Godzilla, they have it. Also Gamera and Ultraman.

22 Weighing in on authors, I really hated Brave New World by Huxley.  Read it in the 6th grade and was disgusted.

I haven't read any of them but I've read a few of the wiki articles on the books.  What I found interesting is that with Huxley you'd think he'd always have that type of outlook, like other authors do where a certain theme and outcome is always standard in their view.  But if you go to the page on his novel Island they've included a little chart comparing the themes between Island and Brave New World.  Almost all the exact same themes but with completely different reasoning behind them.  Where in Brave New World they have the view of being negative effects Island seems to view them as positive and beneficial.

No idea if you've read it or would like it better but it seems like its a complete flip from Brave New World.

Posted by: Mætenloch at September 19, 2010 10:07 PM (vfNQj)

Really?  Maybe the final books written before he died, but I found the first books quite easy to read.  I always felt that the movies didn't do much justice to it, but the older series was much better than that drivel they released on the SyFy channel.

Watched Logan's Run the other night. 

It's also a book--a short read, but does a good job of explaining a lot of the backstory.

I read it back in High School.  I actually took a science fiction literature class.  It was kind of epic.

Also in the book, people were "renewed" at age 21.

I wonder why foreigners don't think romantic comedies are funny. Weird, that.

#74  Don't get me wrong, "Anathem was slow going.  You have to keep flipping to the back of the book for reference but it paid off in the end.

Well, yes, but the end could've been 400 pages closer to the beginning...

And, speaking of sci-fi books, I am disappearing once again because I have a cake decorated with Godzilla destroying Seattle to create tonight.

Posted by: ParanoidVoterInSeattle at September 19, 2010 10:12 PM (RZ8pf)

Will we see it on Cake Wrecks?  (as a GOOD example, I mean)

No idea if you've read it or would like it better but it seems like its a complete flip from Brave New World.

Posted by: buzzion at September 19, 2010 10:13 PM (oVQFe)

Maybe it's time for a re-read + a read of Island to compare the two.  I know I was disgusted particularly at the child sex and wanton promiscuity in Brave New World.  Then again, maybe I was supposed to, after seeing that comparison.  I am now intrigued.

Posted by: Chris in Va at September 19, 2010 10:12 PM (uCjoj)

Just watch his campaign ads.

Will we see it on Cake Wrecks?  (as a GOOD example, I mean)

Well, considering Godzilla is involved, it probably will be a wreck. I'm not sure how the boy is going to feel about me absconding with his Lego architecture models to decorate the cake with, but hopefully he'll be so excited about the surprise party he'll forgive me.

Posted by: Rum, Goddess of Doom at September 19, 2010 09:58 PM (gofDd)

How sad that the Goddess of Doom is afraid of some faggy noseless wizard that can't even defeat a 15 year old boy, or however old Harry Potter is supposed to be.

Posted by: mpurinTexas (kicking Mexico's ass since 1836) at September 19, 2010 10:07 PM (xMKKV)

No, no, Forbidden Topic.  You know, with Leslie Nielsen as the intrepid cyberspace captain who takes his crew to a remote blogpost, where all the commenters have been destroyed but two.  And the remarkable robot can synthesize anything: lace wigs, UGG boots, whatever you desire.

Just watch his campaign ads.

Posted by: Delta Smelt at September 19, 2010 10:17 PM (AZWim)

Yeah, that part is easy.  It's the thread where lacey spills the beans on swapping spit with Ben that you're gonna have to search for.

Oh and if Editor makes an appearance later, tell him that I am in full support of his anger toward the Seahawks quaterback. Bastard is lame and should've been put out to pasture 2 years ago.

Though it was hard to be too disappointed with the results of today's game because I am also a Broncos fan...

Oh god. He really does talk like that. I'm not sure whether to burst out into laughter or cry.

Lacey.   Un. Der. Alls. is. A. Nice. Piece.     Of........Humanity.

Posted by: Monty at September 19, 2010 10:16 PM (wUa1V)

I will add both to my list.  Funny is always good.  Gibson is not necessarily funny, unfortunately.  His work is mostly played straight.  So far, Idoru is still my favorite out of all his books, mostly because it has some humour.

Well, considering Godzilla is involved, it probably will be a wreck. I'm not sure how the boy is going to feel about me absconding with his Lego architecture models to decorate the cake with, but hopefully he'll be so excited about the surprise party he'll forgive me.

Posted by: ParanoidVoterInSeattle at September 19, 2010 10:17 PM (RZ8pf)

Wow - what a great idea you just gave me: interlocking fondant blocks for kid's cakes!!  They already have Lego-style candy blocks, but the fondant ones would probably be much more vibrant.

I have a list - 127 incumbent House Democrats we need to have defend their seats this November, with links to the Republican challengers and polls if available.  Current guess is 77 seat gross pickup.

Live in a safe district?  Still vote Nov 2, but pick a  few Republican challengers off this list and send them 25 bucks. 

Live in one of these offensive battleground districts?   Volunteer for one of these Republican challengers and vote for all the rest of us.

Bypass the RNC, RGA, NRSC, NCCC, TPX, and the state parties - you decide who you want to support and make every penny count.  Support flows directly to the front line - House Republican challengers.

Yeah, that part is easy.  It's the thread where lacey spills the beans on swapping spit with Ben that you're gonna have to search for.

Posted by: Editor at September 19, 2010 10:20 PM (YX6i/)

As long as he doesn't find the Delta Smelt/ Patty Murray thread, I'm cool.

As long as he doesn't find the Delta Smelt/ Patty Murray thread, I'm cool.

Posted by: Delta Smelt at September 19, 2010 10:23 PM (AZWim)

Delta, let me show you this nice pasture we have over here.  All the pain will be gone.

Though it was hard to be too disappointed with the results of today's game because I am also a Broncos fan...

Posted by: ParanoidVoterInSeattle at September 19, 2010 10:21 PM (RZ8pf)

Now, now....don't be a sports bigamist.  Got to pick a team and stay with it.  Stick with Denver.  They will go 8-8 this year but Carroll is a shady huckster who will break your heart eventually.

I.  want.  to. fuck.  you. My name is Ben Quayle. And someone's got.  to.  do.  it.

Posted by: Chris in Va at September 19, 2010 10:24 PM (uCjoj)

Dude is a former Vice President's son.  He's an alpha.  A stuttering dim bulb alpha, but still.

(I keed Lacey)

I'll give Bob Costas credit, he is Dick Clark like in the way he ages, by that I mean not at all.

Obviously he took Logan's Run too literally.

Posted by: Chris in Va at September 19, 2010 10:28 PM (uCjoj)

I feel your pain, but don't sell Shanny short.  A great hire. 

157 Oh, I noticed the other day that Hollywood is making a movie out of A Princess of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs. I'm guessing they will take serious liberties with the Martian style of dress...

Interesting bit of trivia: Ronald Reagan would read Burroughs while sitting next to the Rock River.

Posted by: schizuki at September 19, 2010 10:27 PM (M+lbD)

"That firewall is made of solid Krel steel, three feet thick!"

"And it's already red-hot, Dr. Maetenloch!  Soon it will be white-hot, and then it will start to melt!"

"No, Captain Ace, that's impossible!"

"It's you own jealousy and hatred!  You've tried to suppress the Forbidden Topic, but you forgot the power of your own subconscious!"

FWIW, I did not have sex and/or Bill Clinton type of sexual relations with Ben Quayle. It was much more PG-13 (at best).

Fun fact: David Gerrold wrote The Trouble With Tribbles

Thanks Monty, I think it was Rage I could never find at the library.

FWIW, I did not have sex and/or Bill Clinton type of sexual relations with Ben Quayle. It was much more PG-13 (at best).

You guys need to lay off Slick Willie. Everyone knows his dick was diagnosed with ADHD.

Posted by: 18-1 at September 19, 2010 10:30 PM (bgcml)

I hope it's not that one that SyFy just had on the other night.  With Traci Lords (?).  It was bad.

Posted by: Delta Smelt at September 19, 2010 10:35 PM (AZWim)

We'll call it 50-50 so niether of you feel left out.

Interesting bit of trivia: Ronald Reagan would read Burroughs while sitting next to the Rock River.

Don't know why but I read that as "Rock Ridge" which I think was the name of the town in Blazing Saddles which reminded me of another great sci-fi movie, Space Balls.  "We Ain't Found Shit"

Say what you will about the Manning boys, both of them are ruggedly handsome

?????

Stick to titties, gator. You really don't know what you're talking about

Posted by: Monty at September 19, 2010 10:36 PM (wUa1V)

I know I've watched Cherry-2000.  It was pretty good, surprisingly.  I was expecting it to be more lacivious, so the end result was good.

I hope it's not that one that SyFy just had on the other night.  With Traci Lords (?).  It was bad.

Posted by: soulpile is... expendable at September 19, 2010 10:36 PM (afWhQ)

No, this is a new production.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0401729/

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 10:34 PM (G5low)

"at best" she says.  At best. Sounds like there's some disappointment she's not Mrs..... Ben... Quayle.

Posted by: 18-1 at September 19, 2010 10:30 PM (bgcml)

I hope it's not that one that SyFy just had on the other night.  With Traci Lords (?).  It was bad.

Posted by: soulpile is... expendable at September 19, 2010 10:36 PM (afWhQ)

Nah it looks like they've chosen to call it John Carter of Mars though.  I wonder if its some Hollywood idea that if Princess is in the title they won't get guys to see it.

Posted by: mpurinTexas (kicking Mexico's ass since 1836) at September 19, 2010 10:38 PM (xMKKV)

Kinky Friedman and the Texas Morons!!!

Posted by: gator at September 19, 2010 10:38 PM (aOKEC)

You're such a 'mo, gator.

We'll call it 50-50 so niether of you feel left out.

Posted by: buzzion at September 19, 2010 10:36 PM (oVQFe)

Not just in IQ, but class.

Monty is the Michael Corleone to my Tony Montana.

wait, lacey made out with Ben Quayle?
whoa

Posted by: chemjeff at September 19, 2010 10:39 PM (E97ku)

She let Dan Quayle watch.

Well the Ender's Game crticism is valid because it started out as a short story.  The padding it out to 1 or more novels was not too successful.

Asimov's stuff is good, until you get near the end of his life where he was trying to link everything he ever wrote - Robots, Caves of Steel, Foundation, the Eternity novel into one big universe.

A lot of authors sort of fade out with time. Heinleins kids stuff and short stories show where he got his reputation from. Didn't like his moon stuff, or Stranger.

Piers Anthonys Xanth wore me down after about the first because of all the peeking up the skirt stuff. Then I read another series where the main character keep shape shifting into alien forms, but for some reason has to have sex in each form to advance the "plot", Shockingly its not as interesting as it sounds, if it sounds interesting at all.

Lovecraft is probably best sampled as his shorter stories before going into the bigger stuff like Mountains of Madness or Dunwich Horror. The Rats in the Walls or Call of Cthulu are pretty quick. It gets even funner when you realize that there were several competing/rival authors inventing gods, and they would introduce a thinly disguised rival into a story and kill them horribly.

Stick to titties, gator.

Like white on rice.

Nah it looks like they've chosen to call it John Carter of Mars though.  I wonder if its some Hollywood idea that if Princess is in the title they won't get guys to see it.

Posted by: buzzion at September 19, 2010 10:40 PM (oVQFe)

Probably.  I'm glad it's not the one I saw, at least.  Looks like there's still a femme boy in the lead, albeit younger than the SyFy version (the leads were at least in their 40s).  Having not read the series yet, I don't know if that's what John Carter was supposed to look like or whatnot.

Posted by: Alex at September 19, 2010 10:40 PM (K9+WM)

SCORN!

I don't know if I read that one, but I have a few Weis/Hickman novels and found them pretty good unpretentious books. Like the old classic SF, when they had to sell it to eat that month.

Quark with Richard Benjamin

Posted by: gator at September 19, 2010 10:38 PM (aOKEC)

Kinda like two distinguished, all American men running for president.

I give you Haley Barbour and Newt Gingrich. 

The tingle up the leg of the moronettes is unprecedented.

Posted by: 18-1 at September 19, 2010 10:44 PM (bgcml)

That's what I want to see: a movie with Thomas Haden Church, Willem Dafoe, Steve Buscemi and Christopher Walken as four notorious ladies' men.  In the story, their looks would be somehow irresistibly attractive to women.  (Maybe a feature-length take on Rod Serling's Eye of the Beholder.)

Piers Anthonys Xanth wore me down after about the first because of all the peeking up the skirt stuff. Then I read another series where the main character keep shape shifting into alien forms, but for some reason has to have sex in each form to advance the "plot", Shockingly its not as interesting as it sounds, if it sounds interesting at all.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 19, 2010 10:42 PM (Jp/J9)

The Cluster series. I'm reading the first book right now and it's nice to know I'm not the only one who noticed all the gratuitous alien sex.

I don't know if I read that one, but I have a few Weis/Hickman novels and found them pretty good unpretentious books. Like the old classic SF, when they had to sell it to eat that month.

Star Wars meets the French Revolution.

Personally, I liked it more than Star Wars (HERESY!), if only because I felt that the characters were more interesting and three dimensional.

Generally, they do upretentious well.  Of course, they seem to know their market: http://tinyurl.com/2fw572r

Hollywood will make movies and TV trashing American corporations

well McDonald's has killed more people than the 9/11 terrorists.

Matt Damon - we need Team America!

Posted by: Monty at September 19, 2010 10:45 PM (wUa1V)

Dead Ringers, that was.  And it was from the novel Twins, which in turn was very loosely based on a true story, about two identical twins who practiced gynecology on Park Avenue, and who were so dysfunctional that they ended up dying together in their apartment from their attempt to simultaneously withdraw from barbiturate addiction.

Nah it looks like they've chosen to call it John Carter of Mars though.  I wonder if its some Hollywood idea that if Princess is in the title they won't get guys to see it.

Tim Tebow says, "fap fap fap fap fap fap"

I'm a professional fappatologist, so I pressed on. Sadly, that sperm suffered from toxic shock syndrome.

There are some truly shiteous movies put out my Hollywood and it seems they really to cash in on the scary ones. The trailers freak me the hell out. Name a scary movie trailer (actually, please don't!), I will tell you've I've either screamed in horror as I reach for the remote -or- run out of the room when I can't find the remove.

Thomas Haden Church's best movie is Sideways.  Bart Giamatti's son was awesome as well.

I need a glass of wine.  I'm not drinking any fucking merlot though.

P'noid, if LeGuin gives you the heebie-jeebies, let me warn you right off one of the great women of US literature, James Tiptree Jr.  Really. Spooky eeew.

I'm sorry to agree with about everybody on Dhalgren--but don't overlook Delaney's short stories, which kick ass. The ones with the long and incomprehensible names, you know, Time Considered as a Helix of Semi-Precious Stones and We, in Some Strange Power's Employ, Move on A Rigorous Line.

With Dune, you may come for the spicy mysticism, but you stay for the smart military history. Some fine battle scenes in there, drawn as it were from life.

@18:  Wy Knott? He also invented the modern use of the word "libertarian." But we're not discussing Delaware here.

Posted by: TheresaD at September 19, 2010 10:52 PM (K9XK2)

Did you ever read the short story It's a Good Life by Jerome Bixby?

Posted by: The Mega Independent at September 19, 2010 10:58 PM (5I0Yr)

Unfortunately, yes.  But not in the sense that you are thinking.

#244 I like the Rat. And his wife Angelina.

I even like Bill the Galactic Hero and Star Smashers of the Galaxy Rangers.

Science Fiction Sunday

Question for Maetenloch and the morons:

When I was a young boy, I read a beautiful science fiction short story.  This was the plot:

An old piano maestro is living alone in his home, except for his piano and his mechanical robot servant.

The maestro is unhappy and lonely because his eyes and hands are aged with arthritis and rheumatism, so he can no longer play the piano like he did.  And all his old composer friends have died, and modern society no longer cares about classical music.

One day, as he is sitting at his piano, the robot pauses while doing the chores and asks him about the piano, and what it can do.

The maestro responds that it is for music, that human beings enjoy the sound of notes in harmony, that it is the pinnacle of human creation and inspiration.

The robot considers this, and then asks if he could be taught to play it.  Notes in patterns are something his robotic mind should be able to grasp, in a mathematical sense.

The maestro scoffed.  Music is a human creation, not a mere robotic collection of mathematical patterns.  A robot playing music?  Ridiculous.  But then, the maestro paused and reconsidered.  It had been so many years since he had even had a school age pupil to tutor, let alone play at a concert hall.  And he was very lonely and missed hearing music played on his piano. 

The maestro decided he would teach the robot to play.  It wouldn't mean anything, but it would occupy his time.

Yes, I will teach you said the maestro.  Come sit beside me on the piano bench.  Yes master, said the robot and obediently settled his massive chrome frame next to the withered and diminutive human frame. 

First the maestro explained the notes and pointed them out on the music.  The red mechanical eyes of the robot took this in and said that he understood.

Then the maestro grasped the giant steel hand and placed it over the keyboard and instructed the robot to play a “C” note.  The robot did and the maestro winced.  “Easy my mechanical friend.  I donÂ’t want your great metallic digits breaking the keyboard.  SoftlyÂ…softly.”  And the robot apologized and played that one note softly.  Good, said the maestro. Now for the next stepÂ…

And so it went.  The maestro instructed a small thing, and the robot obeyed.  And then the maestro went to the next step and then the next.

After several hours, the maestro paused.  He hadnÂ’t realized it was night and how much time had passed.  He told the robot that his old eyes couldnÂ’t keep this up and that he would have to go to bed.  The robot carried him to bed and tucked him in.  As the robot left, it asked if it could practice some of what the maestro had taught it.

The maestro said yes, but to be careful not to damage anything.  Later, as the maestro slept, dark and lonely dreams troubled him.  Old friends and lovers long departed swam through his mind and darkness was all around him.  Eventually, the sky in his dream grew brighter and the sound of birds and long forgotten music floated by.

Suddenly, the maestro woke with a sudden, shuddering start.  Music was coming faintly through the walls of his bedroom.  Trembling, he put his bare feet on the cold floor and with difficulty hobbled to his door and opened it.

The robot sat at the piano.  His red mechanical eyes looked straight ahead, unseeing.  The sheet music for Beethoven, moonlight sonata 3rd movement was closed and placed to the side.  And the musicÂ…Oh! The music.  Liquid silver in the form of sound rolled off the keyboard in a heavenly transcendence that the maestro had never heard in all his days.  The music was pure and crystalline and light in a way that let the soul of the long dead composer and his genius shine forth and never before.  Surely, this was music as would be heard in heaven.

And the maestro wept.

Immediately, the robot ceased played, turned its metallic head towards him and moved to the maestrosÂ’ side.  What is wrong master?  Are you injured?  Is there a pain?

NoÂ…no.

It was beautifulÂ…he said.

The next day the maestro woke filled with energy and joy that made him feel decades younger.  He fumbled around calling old professional acquaintances telling them about this new mechanical musical miracle.  After much cajoling and calling in of favors, the maestro arranged for a demonstration concert to be held in an old music hall.  While this unfolded, the robot continued his household chores, perhaps with a strange undefined change in attitude that was impossible to pin down.

The maestro then turned to his robot and told him of the wonderful news.  The maestro marveled that what had taken him an entire life of toil and struggle and anguish to reveal the music in the instrument and the score was so breathtakingly accomplished by a mechanical robot, and in a far superior way.  The robot listened obediently and silently.  The maestro then said come, come sit with me and let us hear some more of this miracle you have.

The robot paused for a moment in a very out of character way.  After a second, the robot replied, “Master, I am afraid I must refuse to ever approach that piano again.”  The maestro was staggered, and gripped with a frail hand for support on the robots giant arm. 

No, no, the maestro stammered.  Are you concerned because I cried last night?  That meant nothing, it wasnÂ’t pain, it was beautiful.  Please, you must play again.  I beg you.

The robot turned his head until his red eyes were looking straight at the maestro.  “Master, last night you taught me the mechanics of this music.  And it was easy for me to play.  But I have calculated this phenomenon and its circumstances.

And then the robots head turned from the trembling form of the maestro and looked at the silent piano.

And the robot slowly said, “And I know now that this music was not meant to be easy.”

End.

Anyway, thatÂ’s the short story as near as I can recall it.  IÂ’ve wondered what the name was for many years.  I tried to Google it, but was unsuccessful.

If anyone here on this thread recognizes this story and can put me some knowledge as to the author and title, IÂ’d much appreciate it.

Nah it looks like they've chosen to call it John Carter of Mars though.  I wonder if its some Hollywood idea that if Princess is in the title they won't get guys to see it.

Posted by: huerfano at September 19, 2010 10:55 PM (No0N3)

Ah but do you think that if they made that movie today, it would be titled The Princess Bride?  Or The Six Fingered Man: The Revenge of Inigo Montoya?

Harry Turtledove's WorldWar series.

An alien invasion during World War II.

Reggie Wayne just jackhammered my tender squeakhole.

And he loved every minute of it.

Did you ever read the short story It's a Good Life by Jerome Bixby?

If we're talking creepy literature, read Edgar Allan Poe or some of his German contemporaries. The Bronte sisters were also into that sort of thing.

/Gothic fiction

Ah but do you think that if they made that movie today, it would be titled The Princess Bride?  Or The Six Fingered Man: The Revenge of Inigo Montoya?

Posted by: buzzion at September 19, 2010 11:00 PM (oVQFe)

#2 if they wanted a male audience. 

Ah but do you think that if they made that movie today, it would be titled The Princess Bride?  Or The Six Fingered Man: The Revenge of Inigo Montoya?

Did you ever read the short story It's a Good Life by Jerome Bixby?

Excessive fapping is normally associated with goobers that don't have access to Paris Hilton

Fapping would probably be a safer option than "accessing" Paris Hilton.

If we're talking creepy literature, read Edgar Allan Poe or some of his German contemporaries. The Bronte sisters were also into that sort of thing.

/Gothic fiction

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 19, 2010 11:03 PM (yfJ6g)

I love Poe.  There's a great leather bound edition containing most, if not all of his writings... not sure if I have it yet.  Kafka is even weirder.

Any reccomendations from the Bronte sisters?  I thoroughly loved Jane Eyre.

Lacey,

I didn't catch the name of the player, but it has to do with a helmet either being taken or going into the stands.

Did you ever read the short story It's a Good Life by Jerome Bixby?

Whoo-ah.

Posted by: Anachronda at September 19, 2010 11:04 PM (6fER6)

I am so sorry.

274 I just missed the past 10 mins of the game, who got benched for the Giants and why?

Honestly don't know. I'm only getting brief moments of coverage from NBC + Yahoo! Sports tally.

Pfizer Consumer Healthcare at September 19, 2010 11:08 PM (uCjoj)

Will you sell me a two-by-four to strap to my ass so I don't fall in as well?

If so, call me. _{*no wait, don't*}

Posted by: Mætenloch at September 19, 2010 11:13 PM (vfNQj)

DragonSpeak?

Posted by: Kim at September 19, 2010 11:12 PM (uCjoj)

We love you honey, but it's no longer a taco, it's now the Grand Canyon.

So he threw it?? What an ass. If that what happened, he deserves to be suspended.

Did Al Michales actually just 'pocket rocket'???

!!!!

Paging Christine O'Connell....Christine O'Connell please pick up the vibrating white courtesy phone.

Any reccomendations from the Bronte sisters?  I thoroughly loved Jane Eyre.

Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte 

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, Anne Bronte

Charlotte also wrote some short stories and poems.

215

Delta, I'm throwing things at you with my mind ! Ick!

The NASA channel (ch. 289 on directv) has the Mission Coverage live feed looking at Igor.

Amazing footage.

Posted by: Anthony at September 19, 2010 11:04 PM (vdfwz)

Lewis Padgets "Mimsy were the Borogroves" and Clifton's "Star Bright" were similar to Bixby's, but the kid wasn't so evil.

In both children develop so fast (in one due to a future machine's influence, the other due to their own brightness) and so differently than the parent wants, and eventually vanish - and the parent can't pursue.

If I were a literary type, I'd say it was a metaphor or 'sumpin. I found it almost as horrifying as the little monster, even though  I was a kid myself.

Charlotte also wrote some short stories and poems.

I'll just come out and ask about this "forbidden topic."

Delaware + Senate race = toxic

320 I'm afraid to peek, but I can't resist.

Evening fellow 'roons.

Since it's clear something must have happened while I was actually attempting to have a life, I'll just come out and ask about this "forbidden topic."

Can someone give me a link to the germaine part of the "inside joke?", or do I have to ask what it is?

I would read the titles of a majorioty of the other threads.

Paging Christine O'Connell....Christine O'Connell please pick up the vibrating white courtesy phone.

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 11:16 PM (G5low)

Rino squish!!!!!!!!!!  Burn her!

Posted by: K~Bob at September 19, 2010 11:20 PM (9b6FB)

Just scroll down the rest of the blog for the last 5-days of posts.  It'll be pretty easy to figure it out.

OT, but RIP to a real man:

Roderick Mann, British Hollywood reporter, has died at 87. He was an
RAF fighter pilot in WWII, competitor of  fellow feature writer Ian Fleming, a friend of David Niven and William Holden, and in the early 60's had an affair with Kim Novak .

Rod. Mann. RAF. Kim Novak. The mind reels. Cue Vertigo theme.

Posted by: jwb7605 at September 19, 2010 11:21 PM (Qxe/p)

It's what we remove when the ship converts.

Can someone give me a link to the germaine part of the "inside joke?", or do I have to ask what it is?

Maetenloch has sores "down there."

Posted by: David Fucking Frum at September 19, 2010 11:22 PM (uCjoj)

Good God man, what are you saying?  Help!  Police!

BEARS WIN!!!  BEARS WIN!!!

COWBOYS PLAY FOOTBALL LIKE OBAMA!!!

thats all i got

TheresaD, yes it was. Although it looks like it was 'inadvertent'. He slammed it down and it bounced up in the stands. That's what yahoo is reporting anyway -- I've yet to see it.

More importantly, good thoughs and prayers for your great-nephew.

Delta, I'm throwing things at you with my mind ! Ick!

Posted by: Polliwog at September 19, 2010 11:18 PM (f5fA3)

Yeah, yeah.  I can never please the moronettes, they are insatiable.  I'm sorry I left out Mike Huckabee in the shower with his bar of lava.

Happy now?  Or should we talk about Mitch Daniels?

I think so, TheresaD. I don't think he's been back in since.

Via Drudge:  Obama Advisers Weigh Ad Assault Against GOP (Tea Party, really)

*sniffs*

He makes me so proud.  He has the makings of a true dictator!

345  sorry fish, you're on your own

we're trying to get some coffee here

Seriously.

When you've lost masturbation jokes at AoS, something is amiss.

Wuthering Heights, Emily Bronte 

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall, Anne Bronte

Charlotte also wrote some short stories and poems.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 19, 2010 11:17 PM (yfJ6g)

I will try these.  Wuthering Heights never caught my attention - I found it boring.  It's been years, though, so you never know.

we're trying to get some coffee here

 Posted by: navycopjoe at September 19, 2010 11:26 PM (gg4j2)

Thanks anyway officer, how about a doughnut with a hole in it?

Or should we talk about Mitch Daniels?

Hey now, like Paul Ryan for you, MD does *it* for me.

That will be all.

Posted by: MeggieMac at September 19, 2010 11:29 PM (uCjoj)

Sorry your late, Jessica Simpson already asked for the doughnut, and no she's not fat.

*_{Open except for the Forbidden Topic. You know the one I'm talking about.}

_Lambada?

Posted by: martha stewarts left nipple at September 19, 2010 11:31 PM (bh8+e) 

*cough* ahem *cough*

i'm torn fish

most of my navycop days were in italy so i ate italian pastries with my caffe latte con Baileys for breakfast

so no thanks on the doughnut

butsince i'm in hawaii........brah, yo do got some spam fo yo couz

Just scroll down the rest of the blog for the last 5-days of posts.  It'll be pretty easy to figure it out.

Posted by: Editor at September 19, 2010 11:22 PM (YX6i/)

I wasn't AWOL that many days.  It must have been something posted since Friday.  So far, it looks like it's either "Football" (not even a proper moronish sort of thing, if you ask me) or pirate talk (which is something you should make fun of--as a moron--but not really participate in, mateys).

Hey now, like Paul Ryan for you, MD does *it* for me.

That will be all.

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 11:29 PM (G5low

Please.  MD.....excellent initials by the way, (could he cure what ails us?) is no Paul Ryan. 

Ryan sends a thrill up my leg...among other body parts.

I.  thought.  we.  had something.  What.  did.  I.  do?

Never gonna let it go, are you?? Stupid ass morons

353

I'm not sure what Mitch Daniels looks like, hey I get to be shallow sometimes too.  Is he at least not old enough to be my grandfather?

#382

Never Gonna Give You Up

Never Gonna Let You Down

Never Gonna Run Around and Desert You....

Posted by: Value Voters Summit at September 19, 2010 11:36 PM (YX6i/)

What do you want? I'm a freaking Moron!

But I got enough hints from the rest of you that a wink is as good as a knob.  Say no mower.

butsince i'm in hawaii........brah, yo do got some spam fo yo couz

Posted by: navycopjoe at September 19, 2010 11:32 PM (gg4j2)

Yea, I know the drill.  My favorite is fried spam on on rye with fresh sliced white onions, mayo, and a plate of Freedom Fries with dipping sauce. 

Ryan sends a thrill up my leg...among other body parts.

Well not even addressing the underlying creepy Chris Matthews feel to this comment, I'd just say this --

Gov's that actually govern > Legislators that merely legislate.

Any day of the week & twice on Sunday.

Don't get me wrong he is a star, but I don't get the warm and fuzzies over lawmakers. That goes for Pence too. They both need to switch gears before they consider a Presidential run.

But I'm just a RINO asshole so what do I know?

#389 But the Cowboys late season or playoff collapse is a NFL tradition!

Is nothing sacred?

Good strategy if things go well in November. Me likey.

http://tinyurl.com/29mn3gj

Never gonna let it go, are you?? Stupid ass morons

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 11:35 PM (G5low)

God I love creating monsters.  With your invaluable assistance.  Poontang anyone?

I'm not sure what Mitch Daniels looks like, hey I get to be shallow sometimes too.  Is he at least not old enough to be my grandfather?

Posted by: Polliwog at September 19, 2010 11:37 PM (f5fA3)

Like a really effeminate Calvin Coolidge.  On hormone pills.  And bald.  And short.  Yeah.

384

That. Exactly.

Is he at least not old enough to be my grandfather?

Probably not, but he's a short dude at 5'7". They'll love to put that besides Obama.

But that's easy to cure--

M. Daniels vs. B.H. Obama

399

Dear Lord, he's shorter than me! 

http://tinyurl.com/29mn3gj

Love the quote from the legislator. Good strategy.

But I'm just a RINO asshole so what do I know?

Posted by: laceyunderalls at September 19, 2010 11:40 PM (G5low)

If your.........doesn't tingle when Paul Ryan talks turkey, you might be a RINO traitor/Charlie Crist loving/ Susan Collins worshiping/ reach across the aisle squish!11!!! Eleventy!!!!!, who should be banned, but not before you blow me and take care of this.

Demint/Ryan 2012

Sec. of State--John Bolton

Sec. of Defense--Liz Cheney

Treasury--Mitt

Commerce--Herman Cain

Interior/Energy--Palin

Attorney Gen.--Coulter

Education--Get rid of it.

Transportation--Ditto

DHS--Rudy or Ted Nugent (Rudy has experience and some balls, Ted is fierce, take your pick)

Love the quote from the legislator. Good strategy.

Yep. If you can't behead the beast, then starve it to death.

Evening all, one of my favorite tv shows.

http://tinyurl.com/2afvtk

Via Drudge:  Obama Advisers Weigh Ad Assault Against GOP (Tea Party, really)

*sniffs*

He makes me so proud.  He has the makings of a true dictator!

Posted by: Zombie J. Stalin at September 19, 2010 11:26 PM (a3Z62)

--------------------------------------------------------

Even after I banged my head on the desk, I still couldn't get myself to become that stupid.

What part of "no shit, Sherlock" are they missing?  70% of the nation's inquiring minds want to know.

Evening folks, I just got in from a tether at a school for the deaf.  Actually, I didn't see anybody there that was hearing impaired.  Just after I put up the system it gets windy as hell so I and about a 1000 pounds of humanity held it on the ground while a 7 story balloon goes bronco in the wind for an hour.  Amazingly I didn't burn a hole in the side of the balloon.  Then the wind died down and I got just about everyone up before I ran out of fuel.  Grabbed a bite to eat  and now I am working on my good cholesteral with a glass of scotch. 

 Have I missed anything interesting?

Posted by: The War Between the Undead States at September 19, 2010 11:49 PM (F5Gxy)

Christine!!!!!!!!

And I agree, for the most part.  I think a few of them manage to stay relatively clean, honest and what not.  Demint seems to be one of them. 

The kind of person who goes into politics, especially now days, is often an ego maniac who worships at the alter of power.

If your.........doesn't tingle when Paul Ryan talks turkey

Well you just proved my point......

Talk is great. Actions are better. His first year in office, he took a $600 million deficit and turned it into $300 million surplus.

In one stinking year.

So yeah, I can get on board with the Old Short White Soft-Spoken Dude.

The kind of person who goes into politics, especially now days, is often an ego maniac who worships at the satantic alter of power witchcraft.

/fixed for the gal in need of the pocket rocket

(and srsly, altar, you made it too easy!)

#419 The 100th Sequel in a series flogging is usually better than the jamming of series that were clearly not meant to fit together that Isaac did. I used to call it "Dickens Disease" after Great Expectations, where every character tossed in the first chapter seems to pop back on page 400.

Heinlein caught that disease in that "Number of the Beast" book. Bleh.

Well, I certainly hope the Republicans aren't going to stop fighting Obama when he starts vetoing their bills. After what they did in 2004 with a solid majority in each house and the Presidency I expect this time they will actually fight for conservative principles like they mean it. 

The public is supporting them because it wants to reverse what the Democrat congress has wrought these last four years, not because they want more go along to get along Republicans.

422

The kind of person who goes into politics, especially now days, is often an ego maniac who worships at the alter of power.

And here was me thinking I was going to have to go into politics since my past is so prosaic no-one could make a big deal out of it such as has happened to a lot of the newer candidates.

My head is mysteriously starting to throb again, I don't know why...Anyone also notice it grew quieter when we started discussing politics again?

And when the cafeterias started offering more exotic, healthful fare, Boehner had a laugh.

“I like real food — food that I can pronounce the name of,” Boehner told media outlets after the House initiated a three-year dining contract with Restaurant Associates, which immediately began incorporating locally grown and organic foods like bok choy and jicama into the menus.

Posted by: BQ's Stutter at September 19, 2010 11:48 PM (uCjoj)

So this is the guy that Obama has trying to characterize as an out of touch elitist? How the heck did we lose to the moron from Chicago?

Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:00 AM (yfJ6g)

I had the same feeling during the sci-fi books stretch. I like watching the movies, but the books? Meh.

His first year in office, he took a $600 million deficit and turned it into $300 million surplus.

Well if you believe PR to be incapable of that, fine, but I don't think you really feel that way. 

Ryan is a salesman and a true believer.  A friendly, approachable, well spoken guy who can handle tough questions from MFM hacks.

I don't think he's running, so it really doesn't matter.  But he's the best salesman for our point of view in politics.  It's not even close. 

I'm a cynical guy, but every interview he does he impresses me.  He doesn't get rattled, and he knows his stuff.

436 Okay, so we played one of our rare wedding gigs this past weekend (yeah, I know, thread-kill topic). We don't usually do weddings unless it's for friends (or FOAF). The cool thing is that it was outside, no shelter but a few trees (which given the weather, was almost Moron-worthy, but no lightning was visible)...

Sounds fun! Asking the bride is always a good thing. Those songs also have a type of universal appeal.

I'm watching Dual Survival on TDC. They just showed the wife in a bikini top thing--that gal has a rack!

My head is mysteriously starting to throb again, I don't know why...Anyone also notice it grew quieter when we started discussing politics again?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:00 AM (yfJ6g)

Politics?  I don't need no stinkin'... well, I'm just burned out on the topic, personally.  Too much stress this week to add politics on top of that.

444 What the... no love for Douglas Adams?
No Clarke?
Pfft.

I'm not a great lover of sci-fi, but Hitchhiker's Guide is a good read. He also did some work I liked for Tom Baker's Doctor in Doctor Who.

What did Clarke write?

#444 Read lots of Clarke. Again, he should have stopped a bit earlier as his later stuff is not as good. Rama was great - the sequels not so much. The 2001 sequels were ruined for me as they were sequels of the movie, not his own book. The gate was in the wrong spot!

Stanley Weinbaum is great - from before the golden age. And the guy marries the girl at the end of almost all the stories

Posted by: Editor at September 20, 2010 12:08 AM (YX6i/)

which is awesome. Such an odd couple with a good ol boy from Kentucky and a high class Brit.

Yep, Editor, you're right. Cody and Dave are not rack enhanced (thank God).

452 433 Politics?  I don't need no stinkin'... well, I'm just burned out on the topic, personally.  Too much stress this week to add politics on top of that.

I am as well, unless it's a positive &/or funny story.

How are things, if I may ask?

So this is the guy that Obama has trying to characterize as an out of touch elitist? How the heck did we lose to the moron from Chicago?

Ohio Dan,

That was evil.

Posted by: Land of Leakin at September 20, 2010 12:09 AM (AMYl0)

I keep waiting for Dave to tell Cody "Fuck you hippy"

Miss 80s Baby

Clarke wrote 2001. Wrote a lot of short stories in the 40s and 50s that are probably his best stuff. "The Star" is a classic - an expedtion finds the remains of a destroyed civilization - destroyed by a supernova that formed the Star of Bethlehem.

Editor,

Of course, Dave probably has some pics, and as Gutfeld says in his book, "Over time, pecs turn into tits."

I am as well, unless it's a positive &/or funny story.

How are things, if I may ask?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:10 AM (yfJ6g)

Not good, but apparently better than yesterday.  My dad's progressed to a ventilator.  Still on it today, but breathing on his own with the pressurized air.

Oops, that was sposed to be "pecs." I think teh booze is kickin' in.

*finally*

Another Shorpy>

Walnut Grove: 1936

It was built in 1683, which is a great lifespan for an American house. Also love the porch swing; my family had one of those when we lived in Oklahoma. Houston house is not suited for one.

Niven tend to be a repetitive writer - which is annoying if you remember the phrase from story to story. Jerry Pournelle is a bit tepid, but toghether they are better than either alone.

Well until they started introducing themselves as characters in their own books, anyway. Well it was good for a quiet a while.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:05 AM (yfJ6g)

Yeah, I've gotten to the point where I prefer Country more and more. Especially the stuff about family, home, work, and love. I still play classic rock covers in my band, though.  You don't stop what you're good at when it involves decades-long associations.

(Only the ceremony was outside, BTW. I wasn't clear on that.)

467 Not good, but apparently better than yesterday.  My dad's progressed to a ventilator.  Still on it today, but breathing on his own with the pressurized air.

I am glad to hear of the improvement; I will keep praying.

How is your book list coming?

I keep waiting for Dave to tell Cody "Fuck you hippy"

That or for Cody and his bare feet to step on a three-inch thorn.

Then it could be:

Cody: Oh Dave, pull it out!

Dave: Fuck you, hippy.

Knitting? Editor, you need a second TV.

76 Speaking of off topic, I spent about 2 hours today at my mothers house removing a weed/vine called morning glory from the side gardens at her house (cause im a good son) This stuff is insane. Is there a herbicide out there that will kill this stuff without harming the good plants/flowers?
Posted by: helofixer at September 19, 2010 10:06 PM (AF1mt)

I was in the industry for 23 years.  There is nothing hard about what you are doing.  Selective herbicides like Trimec (weed be gon) will take it out.  It must be applied to green actively growing vegetation.  If the plants are huge they have become woody and have an extensive root system.  getting enough herbicide to the roots will take repeated applications untill it is gone.  You will probably make the soil so overloaded with herbicide nothing will grow for six weeks except other weeds by the time you are done.  You can also use a non selective herbicide like Round up or its generic.  Again, it must be applied to the grean leave.  Repeat applications will be neccessary to regrowing leaves untill you starve out the root system.  There is another method which works on larger stalks by cutting the plant and painting the stump with either of the undiluted herbicides mentioned earlier but morning glory has vines too small for this method to work.  It will take a bit but don't try to speed up the process by ripping it out as you will make it harder to get sufficient herbicide into the roots.

Knitting? Editor, you need a second TV.

Posted by: Land of Leakin at September 20, 2010 12:19 AM (AMYl0)

We have two 42" HDTVs, one plasma one LCD.  Just have an HD box on one of them, right now. 

Actually, I'm kinda shocked she's not in the bedroom, right now. 

#475  They are very similar writers in style. Clarke is probably even less emotional and character driven than Asimov, being English. Both are probably best as short story writers. Asimov's Foundation books are really novellas combined to make a novel.

The Nine Billion Names of God is another classic Clarke story. Himalayan Monks hire a computer to help finish the catalog that is the mission of the monistary...

We have two 42" HDTVs, one plasma one LCD.  Just have an HD box on one of them, right now. 

Sheesh! Who am I to talk? I have two flat screen TVs. One cost 89.95 and the other 99.95. They're kinda like me. Cheap, but effective.

I forgot about Childhoods End. Kind of the ancestor of V, but different.

 'Lo 'rons.

Evenin'. Or mornin'. Depending on your locale.

Posted by: Anachronda at September 20, 2010 12:21 AM (6fER6)

At least he was right about the loglow.  I hate those things.

I am glad to hear of the improvement; I will keep praying.

How is your book list coming?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:17 AM (yfJ6g)

Thank you so much.  I cannot say how much I appreciate it.

As to the book list - I think I will get 100+ very quickly.  I've messily updated the ones recommended here to my online list.  Now, I just have to plug everything into my spreadsheets and see how many there are with my series lists added in. 

Already started reading 'cause I couldn't wait.  My unread pile of books taunts me every time I walk by the shelf.  I'll probably work on those before I get the ones I don't have in my possession.  Looking forward to the holiday season and hoping for a discount on the kindle (I know... but it'll be easier to find some free/non-important books electronically).

I really enjoy these book threads, since they give some stories to which I can look forward.  Especially with authors whose names are so completely foregin to me, but whom I should know.

The Nine Billion Names of God ...

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:24 AM (Jp/J9)

I say he pulled that number out of his ass.

Repost:

485 465  I like the archaeological aspect, but not big on destruction stories; they give me the heebie-jeebies.

472 More into classical and folk music myself, though I also love sountracks, swing, pop, etc. Only genre I really dislike is rap.  

So, as a DJ, how do you decide which songs are best? Is it like picking hymns?

#485 Robert Silverberg wrote a book "Across A Billion Years" which is about an expedition to investigate a race that died out that long ago...and they get more than they bargain for.

A pretty fun book. I liked it as a teen.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:26 AM (yfJ6g)

Posted by: Anachronda at September 20, 2010 12:21 AM (6fER6)

you know, there is some decent stories in the Bizarro sub-genre

493 You're welcome. 

As to the book list - I think I will get 100+ very quickly.  I've messily updated the ones recommended here to my online list.  Now, I just have to plug everything into my spreadsheets and see how many there are with my series lists added in. 

My pile of unread books keeps growing, & I keep meaning to start on something only to have another series catch my eye. So many possibilities! But I'm going through historical fiction right now, especially England during the medieval through Reformation periods. Also reading about America during the beginning of the 20th C through the Depression.

#497 The way I get of unwanted plants is to cut them off at the surface, while laughing manically. Then I stab at the roots with a claw thing, and cut off the roots. I also bury them under large rocks and see if they can wiggle out of that..

Gardening can be funner than you think.

#475  They are very similar writers in style. Clarke is probably even less emotional and character driven than Asimov, being English. Both are probably best as short story writers. Asimov's Foundation books are really novellas combined to make a novel.

The Nine Billion Names of God is another classic Clarke story. Himalayan Monks hire a computer to help finish the catalog that is the mission of the monistary...

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:24 AM (Jp/J9)

Oh, that sounds like fun!  I wonder if I've read it or not...

I agree that they are very similar in tone.  Clarke does come across as a bit more clinical, which is probably why Asimov is more relateable. 

So far, I have used short stories to determine if a writer is any good.  Anthologies can make or break an author on my shelves if I get around to breaking out of an author habit.  (mea culpa... I used to read anthologies so much more... it's how I originally discovered Asimov, I think). 

The one thing I hate, however, is when an author puts out an anthology without it being obvious on the cover.  They did that with I Am Legend.  Boy was I confused... I read at least two more stories before figuring out that they were not related.

498 492 '80sBaby,

You have to have javascript turned on to get nicely formatted comments.

It's on, since I use it for other things and it works perfectly fine. But this and another forum occasionally run words together. Perhaps it's a setting I've mistaken chosen for the actual pp?

I have about 10-15 in my unread fiction and non-fiction piles. I have slowed down buying, finally, to equal out the size of the pile, and decide that  I will never read a book and get rid of it.

Posted by: Chris in Va at September 20, 2010 12:38 AM (uCjoj)

quit being so mean to O'Donell you fucking RINO

/s

So, as a DJ, how do you decide which songs are best? Is it like picking hymns?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:28 AM (yfJ6g)

I have about 10-15 in my unread fiction and non-fiction piles. I have slowed down buying, finally, to equal out the size of the pile, and decide that  I will never read a book and get rid of it.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:40 AM (Jp/J9)

pussy

My pile of unread books keeps growing, & I keep meaning to start on something only to have another series catch my eye. So many possibilities! But I'm going through historical fiction right now, especially England during the medieval through Reformation periods. Also reading about America during the beginning of the 20th C through the Depression.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:33 AM (yfJ6g)

This is the worst part about loving to read.  Too many books and not enough time.  I always read series in chronological order if possible, so if the books are hard to find, the ones I have sit around until I can find the ones that fill in the gaps.  My Lovejoy collection is in this condition.

#504 That's a good plan - plus you can get a mixed one and try out many writers at once. I used to devour all the anthologies in the library as a kid.

I read "Foundation and Empire" first because I thought it was all three books in the trilogy. That was annoying.

#497 The way I get of unwanted plants is to cut them off at the surface, while laughing manically. Then I stab at the roots with a claw thing, and cut off the roots. I also bury them under large rocks and see if they can wiggle out of that..

Gardening can be funner than you think.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:34 AM (Jp/J9)

You haven't encountered morning glories yet. Best way I've found is to pull them out -- their roots ain't squat, and they have cable-like stems that run forever. The only problem is when they're attached (or behind) something fragile.

And, for an extra added bonus, morning-glory seeds contain a close chemical cousin to LSD....

#511 Not reading a book is a breach of faith.

I actually lost track of a book I used to have. I can't see how I would have lost it, but I can't find it. Bothers the heck out of me.

This is the worst part about loving to read.  Too many books and not enough time.  I always read series in chronological order if possible, so if the books are hard to find, the ones I have sit around until I can find the ones that fill in the gaps.  My Lovejoy collection is in this condition.

Posted by: soulpile is... expendable at September 20, 2010 12:42 AM (afWhQ)

read all of the Destroyer books (even though there really is only maybe 50 or so that are actually good)

#504 That's a good plan - plus you can get a mixed one and try out many writers at once. I used to devour all the anthologies in the library as a kid.

I read "Foundation and Empire" first because I thought it was all three books in the trilogy. That was annoying.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:44 AM (Jp/J9)

I have the first Foundation book (I think.. chronologically?) and haven't gotten around to reading it.  Omnibus editions are great if you can find them for cheap.  They tend to be taller, but I can overlook that if they contain more.  It's just harder to carry one in a purse.

If I'm in between authors or have exhausted all books on my shelves and am looking for something new, I go to the anthology section.  Sometimes it's disappointing because all the stories are mediocre, but other times, there will be a little gem.  It's like a treasure hunt.

#516 Cut at the bottom, wait for it to die.

One of the bushes I have is a Star Jasmine. The thing is like an octopus. It wraps the tree next to it, and covers its branches, and strangles them like a python. I'm trying to save the tree and have the bush remain too. But I'm doing it in stages rather than one big epic hack job.

It helps that my yard is about seven feet wide. I'ts what my friend calls a 'California Acre"

510 Back to your question, though, you can google for things like "best country wedding songs" or "best classical wedding songs" and will discover a lot of sites that cater....

The Internet can be a great resource sometimes. That's great that you were able to find songs not only for the wedding but also for personal listening pleasure.

514 This is the worst part about loving to read.  Too many books and not enough time.  I always read...

Exactly! I could spend hrs upon hrs reading, & not realize that time has passed. But I try to pace myself, like you say. Developing a system sounds like a great idea.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:54 AM (Jp/J9)

Night Shade has been releasing some killer editions though

I may not have morning glories, but I do have an infestation of English Ivy from the communal ground cover in front. I like it, but have to fight it back every so often.

Its a good opponent - you can cut the back and the middle will have rooted, leaving a tiny new plant. Since I don't mind the little guys, they can stay while I massacre the dying crabgrass bunch by bunch.

Posted by: Anachronda at September 20, 2010 12:46 AM (6fER6)

I love that man's work.  So hilarious.

#511 Not reading a book is a breach of faith.

I actually lost track of a book I used to have. I can't see how I would have lost it, but I can't find it. Bothers the heck out of me.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:46 AM (Jp/J9)

This is a familiar feeling.  I cannot stand losing a book, especially before reading it.

read all of the Destroyer books (even though there really is only maybe 50 or so that are actually good)

I just wikied that - I love the movie from that.  Did not realize there was a book series!

Posted by: ya2daup at September 20, 2010 12:57 AM (yRrAd)

you bought it? You know it's in the public domain, right?

#530 another advantage of short stories - you can come up for air.

I've done that 'entire big novel in one sitting' thing a few times.

I just wikied that - I love the movie from that.  Did not realize there was a book series!

Posted by: soulpile is... expendable at September 20, 2010 12:57 AM (afWhQ)

flick has nothing on the books. Just be prepared that the majority of them have the same story

#504 If I'm in between authors or have exhausted all books on my shelves and am looking for something new, I go to the anthology section.  Sometimes it's disappointing because all the stories are mediocre, but other times, there will be a little gem.  It's like a treasure hunt.

A great anthology is the Norton Anthology they use for Brit Lit I. They start with Beowulf and Dream of the Rood, go through Sir Gowan, Shakespeare, Doctor Faustus, Paradise Lost, The Faerie Queene, poetry, etc. Wonderful resource and fun to read if you love British lit from the period.

_{/Though I think you were speaking of anthology in a different sense.}

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:54 AM (Jp/J9)

Absolutely true.  We have an awesome used book store here.  I've only been once, but I'm itching to go back.  I found a ton of Lovejoys and Erle Stanley Gardner/AA Fairs there.  Very cheap.  I got about 3x as much for the same price of about four books at a regular chain store.  Also, we have a half-price store closer to us, but their stock is not as good.

For a long time Dune was the only book I didn't finish - I was 200 pages in and the only thing that happened was a kid putting a hand in a box.

I think I ditched a Silverberg book about an alien invasion after scanning past the ' I hate these characters' part I did read and finding out the aliens left for no reason. If you don't care, Bob, why should I?

A few times recently I've stopped reading a history text due to bad writing. That, and recognizing the text that the author stole the text from.

A great anthology is the Norton Anthology they use for Brit Lit I. They start with Beowulf and Dream of the Rood, go through Sir Gowan, Shakespeare, Doctor Faustus, Paradise Lost, The Faerie Queene, poetry, etc. Wonderful resource and fun to read if you love British lit from the period.

_{/Though I think you were speaking of anthology in a different sense.}

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 01:01 AM (yfJ6g)

Oooh... someone else mentioned this series last Sunday.  I do want to find these sometime, just to give it a try.  Beowulf has always been on the list, but never actually attempted it.

flick has nothing on the books. Just be prepared that the majority of them have the same story

Posted by: The Dude at September 20, 2010 01:00 AM (gAmQ1)

I figure the movie is a bit too campy for the books.  Still, it doesn't do a bad job of at least enticing a quick read.

#530 another advantage of short stories - you can come up for air.

I've done that 'entire big novel in one sitting' thing a few times.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 12:59 AM (Jp/J9)

Reading books in one sitting can be hazardous to your health.  Lack of sleep and all that.  I had to make a pact with myself to never open a book at 11pm.  Nor read past 1am.

Okay, what about books you really hated?

Don't read other books by that author?  Sell the book to a used book store?  Or, toss it in a box and forget about it?  I once rescued a couple books from the dumpster, not because I wanted to read them, but I could not bear to see them trashed.  Still have them somewhere... I'll sell them or give them away sometime.

537 Where did the "ing" go?

Okay, what about books you really hated?
I mean, threw it against the wall hate... 

Some of Hemingway's works are honestly better on film than in book-form, such as A Farewell to Arms. But I can't stand some of his other pieces, plus certain selections by F. Scott Fitzgerald and John Steinbeck. E.g., I can't stand Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby but I love "Babylon Revisited". With Steinbeck, it was The Pearl.

#541 Same thing, different gendre.

I liked the Gil the Arm series, and Niven generally. He has an overall problem in building worlds that his 'logical extension' produces a crazy result. The concept with organ legging is that using organs to extend the lifespan leads to the death penalty for everything to get stock.

These are things that in real life don't arrange so neatly. Similarly the neat things like impervious hulls he writes about cause trouble later since you have to explain why the magic thing in story 1 can't work in this story.

Pournelle tends to rein that in when they collaborate to an extent, which is why they are good together.

A Gift from Earth and a World out of Time are some smaller books of his I liked.

552 Oooh... someone else mentioned this series last Sunday.  I do want to find these sometime, just to give it a try.  Beowulf has always been on the list, but never actually attempted it.

It's The Norton Anthology of English Literature 7th Ed Vol. 1. Ed. MH Abrams and Stephen Greenblatt. Anthology itself is 3000pp, but that's due to the various content in the book. I'm also glad it's free of revisionist interpretation.

soulpile - well I violate the after 11 all the time, since I read to get sleepy. But I have to read stuff I have read before, or nonfiction, to avoid the all nighter.

The worst one I did was starting at 11 and reading until 5 pm the next day. Thats PM. Won't do that again.

Should also add one of the best interpretations of Beowulf was written by JRR Tolkien-- The Monsters and the Critics and Other Essays. Though that's rather heavy reading, since he also delves into Sir Gawain and the Green Knight + translating Old English.

_{/I had a college prof who would read selected portions in Old English, and it really gives you a better feel for the piece.}

Heinlein caught that disease in that "Number of the Beast" book. Bleh.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 19, 2010 11:57 PM (Jp/J9)

Actually, speaking of Heinlein, he may have provided a clue for us.

IIRC, it turns out that unpublished manuscripts in a writer's estate are inherited with a basis and estate valuation of $0, and everything coming from them ends up as capital gains to their heirs -- as opposed to previously published manuscripts, which produce ordinary income and are subject to estate tax. So, let's say that you're a good writer -- lots of well-crafted stories with well-rounded characters -- and you feel a twinge of mortality. Whip up a "name-check" work that brings all your characters together in some boondoggle, seal it up, and stick in a trunk for your spouse. You know it's a burn, but it's not like your reputation can suffer or your future contracts be compromised.....'cause it'll only be published when you're not around. In the meantime, your spouse gets a quick hit of income with low taxes and not a lot of "waiting for the estate to close" delay.

Exactly! I could spend hrs upon hrs reading, & not realize that time has passed. But I try to pace myself, like you say. Developing a system sounds like a great idea.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 12:55 AM (yfJ6g)

Actually, this is one of the reasons I started my 100 challenge.  I read really fast, but sporadically.  I wanted to keep a log and hopefully, it will also push me to finish all the unread ones I already have.  This way, I can pull all of my books into a single area, too.

The other reason was because I heard about Bush taking on a similar task and it was quite inspiring.

Should also add one of the best interpretations of Beowulf was written by JRR Tolkien-- The Monsters and the Critics and Other Essays. Though that's rather heavy reading, since he also delves into Sir Gawain and the Green Knight + translating Old English.

_{/I had a college prof who would read selected portions in Old English, and it really gives you a better feel for the piece.}

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 01:21 AM (yfJ6g)

Oooh.  That sounds like a heavy undertaking, but worthwhile.

Posted by: Delta Smelt at September 20, 2010 12:50 AM (AZWim)

What does this mean?

oh, nevermind.

Forbidden topic.  My bad.

I'm still here all night.  The veal is excellent.

soulpile - well I violate the after 11 all the time, since I read to get sleepy. But I have to read stuff I have read before, or nonfiction, to avoid the all nighter.

The worst one I did was starting at 11 and reading until 5 pm the next day. Thats PM. Won't do that again.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 01:19 AM (Jp/J9)

Wow.  That's a late read, if I've heard of one! 

I watch tv to fall asleep.  Books keep me awake if they're good.  Sometimes if they're bad, too.

#573 I find a familiar, but good book helps me sleep. And if I lose my place I just pick it up anywhere.

The fun part is when you fall asleep reading, and dream that you are reading the same book. Then you realize that you are reading it wrong, and that you are dreaming.

The fun part is when you fall asleep reading, and dream that you are reading the same book. Then you realize that you are reading it wrong, and that you are dreaming.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 01:29 AM (Jp/J9)

so meta

Hope Civ 5 doesn't suck

#573 I find a familiar, but good book helps me sleep. And if I lose my place I just pick it up anywhere.

The fun part is when you fall asleep reading, and dream that you are reading the same book. Then you realize that you are reading it wrong, and that you are dreaming.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 01:29 AM (Jp/J9)

That sounds awesome.  Self-aware dreams are so odd.

578 Miss'80sBaby - what are some of the historical fictions you mentioned upthread?  Any recommendations for starters?

I acknowledge that I am very heavy on the scifi and mysteries, but I'll read anything interesting.

They're not entirely accurate, but still thought-provoking and entertaining. Bodie Thoene wrote a series (The Shiloh Legacy) about a group of men who fought together in WWI, then return and have to rebuild their lives. The other series is The Wakefield Dynasty by Gilbert Morris. It's about a family of lords who live in England from the time of the Tudors through the reign of the house of Hanover. 1st 4 bks are probably the best.

The worst one I did was starting at 11 and reading until 5 pm the next day. Thats PM. Won't do that again.

Posted by: ya2daup at September 20, 2010 01:58 AM (yRrAd)

you got my hopes up, I like Mahjong

When a comment you write that ends with "Try the veal" gets deleted you know you are in hyper sensitive territory.  Heh.

#598 I liked that series up to a point - it just got hard that every character was pretty much insane. Crazy people and magic powers is a strange combination.  And this was all from one tour group going back!

I think I tapered off somewhere after the first four in the past, plus maybe one more.

Posted by: Kratos (Ghost of Sparta) at September 20, 2010 02:03 AM (c0A3e)

Did you use Google "real time?"

I found this.

I think I tapered off somewhere after the first four in the past, plus maybe one more.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 02:02 AM (Jp/J9)

The first four are sort of a fantasy series, but she planned on bringing it up to modern time again.  I think the later books make the first books better.

Posted by: ya2daup at September 20, 2010 02:11 AM (yRrAd)

Read Gor

Posted by: Anachronda at September 20, 2010 02:10 AM (6fER6)

nah.  It's not strange at all.  I remember learning to read, but it was odd because I made a huge leap in reading level - so I don't remember when I went from "See spot run" types to The Kingdom of Landover series, etc. 

Posted by: Anachronda at September 20, 2010 02:10 AM (6fER6)

Ummmmm.....or she is.

597 595 Oooh, perhaps the chaos generated by said topic's psychic emanations was what roused me from my slumber. 

Nah; you would have been wide awake an hr ago.

I remember having to grab the thickest book for nap time in kindergarden so that I wouldn't finish it before the end and be bored.

I remember the mean librarian that wouldnt let me take out nonfiction books. Ten or more years later my mom went to work at that library and I recognized her at once. She was still mean, too.

Posted by: cthulhu at September 20, 2010 02:19 AM (/0IOT)

Although, thinking about it, his patience was pretty good....it was more of a WC Fields thing. I did learn some new and different ways of cussing someone out, though.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:21 AM (yfJ6g)

Are you at East Texas State?

649 #639 Hmmm, I'm tempted to check out what's going on, but I really want to stay out it. 

We discussed politics for 30min; that was it. Actually wouldn't have been anything special if not for this afternoon.

Well about the turn of the century there were a series of books like the "Green Fairy Book" - they were anthologies of fairy stories, or most of them.

I got the green one as a throw in for this book club I belong to. They are republished by the Folio Society. They have a website if you want to look.

The second doesn't ring a bell. You might try looking up winners of annual awards for childrens books - often those we run into are popular becuase they won the award.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:21 AM (yfJ6g)

Who the Krupp is Friedrich Fuck?

Posted by: K~Bob at September 20, 2010 02:14 AM (9b6FB)

And, if someone were to assemble and publish a "Best of Moron Haiku" anthology, use the two line form without showing the implied third line. Critics, if they were down on their luck and had to review it, would complain, "But it's not haiku!". To which morons would reply, "Of course it is - every moron know that."

I collect old Norton's Anthologies all the way back to yhe early 1960s. Quite a cultural history there.

You see great authors being booted out in later editions for some piss-poor Minority writers for diversity.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:21 AM (yfJ6g)

Does this explain his interest in those huge gun barrels?

Who the Krupp is Friedrich Fuck?

Posted by: cthulhu at September 20, 2010 02:26 AM (/0IOT)

gun maker

Posted by: Kratos (Ghost of Sparta) at September 20, 2010 02:28 AM (c0A3e)

It's the best in the city.

Posted by: K~Bob at September 20, 2010 02:29 AM (9b6FB)

rino

660 647 Who the Krupp is Friedrich Fuck?

I loled in spite of myself.

Of course in libtard-speak you'd write: "It is felt..."

Posted by: Kratos (Ghost of Sparta) at September 20, 2010 02:28 AM (c0A3e)

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:29 AM (yfJ6g)

I can't keep up with all the changes in Texas colleges.

What are you majoring in?

rino

Posted by: The Dude at September 20, 2010 02:31 AM (gAmQ1)

Meggy Mac lover!

Well about the turn of the century there were a series of books like the "Green Fairy Book" - they were anthologies of fairy stories, or most of them.

I got the green one as a throw in for this book club I belong to. They are republished by the Folio Society. They have a website if you want to look.

The second doesn't ring a bell. You might try looking up winners of annual awards for childrens books - often those we run into are popular becuase they won the award.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 02:26 AM (Jp/J9)

I love those books.  We have the Blue Book of fairytales - gorgeous illustrations, but simple.  Read it almost to tatters, except I always took care of my books.    I plan on hunting down the other colours someday.

Just went to the Folio Society website - I did not know they printed my edition of Just So Stories.  Looks like the rainbow books have been updated.  Mine is not so fancy and we lost the dust jacket a long time ago.  The illustrations are similar, but not quite the same as mine, being more fancy.  I'll have to find ours and compare.  (Fairytales are a big love of mine.  I have a ton of books of them still to read that my mom gave me for Christmas one year).

As to awards - that is a good idea.  I'll look that up.  The school library did stock a lot of books with that gold seal.

Meggy Mac lover!

Posted by: K~Bob at September 20, 2010 02:33 AM (9b6FB)

now thats just a low blow

What are you majoring in?

My BA is History/Poli Sci with a minor in English, and I was going to add a teaching certificate. Right now, though, I'm thinking about an MS in Library Science & Information Studies. These education courses are absolutely worthless and do nothing to help future teachers.

Posted by: K~Bob at September 20, 2010 02:37 AM (9b6FB)

Mothra isn't from the Trench. Plus, Mothra is a girl

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:38 AM (yfJ6g)

Not interested in the good old Law School route?

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 02:36 AM (Jp/J9)

  Maybe once my own mountain turns into a molehill.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:38 AM (yfJ6g)

They're union credentials, and naught else.

695 Not interested in the good old Law School route?

Doesn't interest me. Besides, I have a number of friends either getting their JDs or in the proccess. Anyway, I prefer museums and archives. I have actually spent time in both; it's more a matter of getting that slip of paper.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:43 AM (yfJ6g)

Ever worked in the Perry-Castaneda library in Austin?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:38 AM (yfJ6g)

This wouldn't have to do with that "hot librarian" look, would it?

699 They're union credentials, and naught else.

It's actually more worthless theory than anything. Ask any senior, & they will tell you that everything you've learned goes out the window. So, it's lovely that you have practicums and are taught what issues you'll face, how to craft curriculum, & hand-crafting transparencies-- but it's all highly speculative.

Mothra isn't from the Trench. Plus, Mothra is a girl

Posted by: The Dude at September 20, 2010 02:38 AM (gAmQ1)

You watched them sober? Fake Moron!

702 Ever worked in the Perry-Castaneda library in Austin?

No, but I would love to have the chance. However, UT is expensive, as is living in Austin. UNT (Denton) seems to be the better choice right now. 

Still, that is an incredible library... 

You watched them sober? Fake Moron!

Posted by: K~Bob at September 20, 2010 02:47 AM (9b6FB)

I love kaiju flicks. As for Mothra, I know the Mothra Song by heart (did it for a talent show in jr. high)

It's actually more worthless theory than anything. Ask any senior, & they will tell you that everything you've learned goes out the window. So, it's lovely that you have practicums and are taught what issues you'll face, how to craft curriculum, & hand-crafting transparencies-- but it's all highly speculative.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 02:47 AM (yfJ6g)

Thing is, everyone knows it's worthless. So, why is it done? Because it creates a separation......which hearkens back to Wilde's "Every profession is a conspiracy against the layman." You have to rub your tummy, pat your head, waste your time and money learning bogus theories that nobody will expect you to ever use.....to be part of the anointed.

#710 I remember how shocked I was when the Little Mermaid came out how they totally screwed up that story. And don't get me going on Beauty and the Beast.

I mean Glorfindel being missing from LotR was nothing compared to those changes.

I mean Glorfindel being missing from LotR was nothing compared to those changes.

Posted by: Oldcat at September 20, 2010 02:54 AM (Jp/J9)

Disney should have left in the scene in Cinderella where her stepmother cut off her daughter's toes trying to get the glass slipper to fit.

Posted by: cthulhu at September 20, 2010 02:54 AM (/0IOT)

http://tinyurl.com/y97m2ot

Posted by: Kratos (Ghost of Sparta) at September 20, 2010 03:00 AM (c0A3e)

Jean Cocteau's version is sublime. Sadly it's the only flick I liked from him, though his poetry and lit is really good

712 Thing is, everyone knows it's worthless. So, why is it done? Because it creates a separation......which hearkens back to Wilde's "Every profession is a conspiracy against the layman." You have to rub your tummy, pat your head, waste your time and money learning bogus theories that nobody will expect you to ever use.....to be part of the anointed.

That, and educational theorists actually believe their ideas are somehow pragmatic and useful. After reading part of a William Ayers' book, I would say he's one of those people. They want to engineer a perfect system.

#725 More thanks to my Mom the librarian. And my flypaper memory for stuff.

But you're quite welcome.

726 #722 The problem with a perfect system is that people can't fit in it. So its not perfect after all.

Which is true of all aspects of life, IMO. Still doesn't prevent the engineers, but they view life through rose-colored glasses. I'll stop there.

It's now time for music and/or TV. Britcoms at night tempt me to watch them, so I'm going for something more peaceful.

Anyone else sleep better when they go to sleep with noise in the background?

Posted by: cthulhu at September 20, 2010 03:08 AM (/0IOT)

nope, sang it after my voice cracked. I butchered it

It's indonesian

I used the musical track for the sake of people actually getting which song I was singing. And yet still, there was maybe 5 other people knew what the fuck it was and two were teachers.

The Myst soundtracks sometimes work for me because they have no words. 

Anyone else sleep better when they go to sleep with noise in the background?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:10 AM (yfJ6g)

With my tinnitus, I always have noise in the background. I also love having a fan running, though.  Even in the dead of winter.

#732 Hey real engineer-engineers know the material they are working with. Social Engineers - not so much.

That reminds me of a great Sci Fi story by H Beam Piper "Oomphel In the Sky" about the two types in action in a real crisis. Piper is another good SF writer, becuase he knew history. I think its in the Federation collection of his.

Anyone else sleep better when they go to sleep with noise in the background?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:10 AM (yfJ6g)

can't sleep without anything in the background unless I've been drinking heavily and even then, I pass out with the tv or stereo on

737 #733 The Myst soundtracks sometimes work for me because they have no words. 

Is that the whale-humping music?

Anyone else sleep better when they go to sleep with noise in the background?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:10 AM (yfJ6g)

We have some Windham Hill videos for when our godkids are visiting. When it's time for everyone to sack in, we put on "The Boring Movies". We refer to them as "Water dripping" or "Paint Drying" or "Leaves Falling", but they're really "Water's Path", "Western Light", and "Autumn something-or-other".

They're very nicely put together and the music is pleasant, but after all the years of association, I'm afraid that they're the express ticket to dreamland.

Is that the whale-humping music?

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:13 AM (yfJ6g)

LOL.

Tangerine Dream also works.

Natural sounds cds. I had some of those once. LOTR also works for me, at least with the softer songs.

#753 The natural sounds "Fingernails on a Chalkboard" album was quickly pulled from the market...

Night everyone

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:21 AM (yfJ6g)

My Lagan Love is a peaceful song. The mystical quality helps...

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:16 AM (yfJ6g)

Well, now we know where Bette Midler's big hit came from.

Natural sounds cds. I had some of those once. LOTR also works for me, at least with the softer songs.

Posted by: Miss'80sBaby at September 20, 2010 03:21 AM (yfJ6g)

The Windham Hill stuff is Windham Hill artists. Actual composed music. Like this.

Posted by: Kratos (Ghost of Sparta) at September 20, 2010 03:28 AM (c0A3e)

you've gotta remember that it was the first game to show off the cd format for videogames

Posted by: John Carmack at September 20, 2010 03:30 AM (oj52M)

I really made you my bitch, didn't I........got any job openings?

Posted by: John Fucking Carmack at September 20, 2010 03:34 AM (oj52M)

It was great at the time but those fuckwits who stole your shit at Epic fucked you up real good. How's the mobile game slums treating you?

Posted by: Monty at September 19, 2010 10:16 PM (wUa1V)

Just for the opening with the 'Deliverator' Snow Crash is worth it.

Posted by: USS Diversity at September 19, 2010 10:21 PM (u3Zi5)

Read them all.  Gerrold keeps promising a book to follow A Season for Slaughter which came out in 1993.  His web-site used to have a bit of that sequel up. 

To beat up Stephenson's Anatham, go back to H Beam Piper's short story Omnilingual about humans trying to find a Rosetta stone to translate a dead Maritan civilization.  Most of Piper's works can be read online at the Gutenberg site.  Glenn Cook's Starfisher Trilogy and its repquel Passage at Arms is really good military style science fiction.  James P Hogan's Two Faces of Tommorow is also good.  Or David Brin's first Uplift Trilogy, Keepiru - 'I never said who I would feed you to.'