The Archive
All Posts
Rudyard Kipling Does Scifi: The Secret of the Machines
I recently found another SF/F podcast that I’ve been digging – Reading, Short and Deep, by SFFAudio. Each episode (available online or through the Apple Podcasts app) consists…
The Word-Hoard: Tableau
Tableau n. 1. A picture, as of a scene. 2. A picturesque grouping of persons or objects; a striking scene. 3. A representation of a picture, state, scene, etc., by one or more persons suitably costumed and posed. Not…
Leigh Brackett on Pessimism
If you spend a lot of time reading/watching the news or plumbing the depths of social media, you may feel like everything is going to crap. You may…
Introduction to the Weird Clark Ashton Smith
When you think “Weird Tales,” H.P. Lovecraft should spring immediately to mind. Even if you’re new to scifi/fantasy, or if you don’t read much horror, you’ve no doubt…
The Word-Hoard: Lapidary
Lapidary: n. Someone whose job is cutting and polishing stones, especially precious stones. adj. 1: Relating to the work of cutting and polishing stones, especially precious stones.…
The Word-Hoard: Sybaritic
Sybaritic adj. Fond of sensuous luxury or pleasure; self-indulgent. The Emperor , of the Emperor’s Notepad, suggested that it might be interesting to explore the origins of…
The Word-Hoard: Unguent
Unguent: n. a thick substance, usually with a pleasant smell, used to treat skin problems or make the skin soft. “Unguent” is an excellent alternative to “ointment” and…
The Word-Hoard: Vertiginous
Vertiginous: adj. 1 a : Characterized by or suffering from vertigo or dizziness b : Inclined to frequent and often pointless change ; inconstant 2 : Causing or…
Jack Vance channels Burroughs: Planet of Adventure
An Earthman finds himself stranded on an alien world peopled by multiple, warring races of men and strange non-human creatures. Armed with courage and wit, trusting in his…
The Word-Hoard: Effulgence
Effulgence: n. A brilliant radiance; a shining forth. “Effulgence” strikes me as a great word for that flood of light when the door is opened between a dark…