Recently updated blogs

Be still my beating heart. A book on the supply of clothing and equipment that relies heavily, and quotes, contemporary documents. Somehow, this book really ticks my boxes. Who'd have thunk it? What do you want to be when you grow up? Someone who gets excited at the mention of the Tangye Collection manuscripts, and any hint of SP28 (Commonwealth Exchequer Papers) has those close by reaching for the smelling …

In November 2024, I traveled to India as part of a delegation hosted by the India Foundation. The foundation is a part of the new nationalist establishment steering Indian society. As they see things, India’s relationship with America has been mediated by hostile parties for too long. On the Indian side you have Congress-sympathizing functionaries; on the American side, a set of intellectuals and diplomats who can neither speak for …

Happy New Year! Firstly, I’m very much still alive and well (thanks for asking). I was so busy with work and the move to Munich last year that I rather neglected to update here. Also, after focusing on Asia for the past 17 years, I somehow lacked inspiration despite all the changes in my life. I hope to post more in 2025 but while my memory is still fresh (and …

Maybe a content warning on this one for discussion of a scene that heavily allegorizes sexual assault. So even though I won’t technically get to this game in this project for a hot minute, I figured I would still talk briefly about my experiences playing Final Fantasy XVI, which I just finished doing. I started playing FFXVI in late November after my birthday, and it has taken me a little …

Casual Viewing Several screenwriters who’ve worked for the streamer told me a common note from company executives is “have this character announce what they’re doing so that viewers who have this program on in the background can follow along.” Practical art for modern living.

What I’m currently up to. Last updated January 5, 2025.

Continuing our series of critics wrong-footed in real-time here is Rolling Stoner Stephen Davis with a terse dismissal of Lou Reed's Berlin. Lou Reed BerlinRolling Stone, December 20th 1973 by Stephen DavisLou Reed’s Berlin is a disaster, taking the listener into a distorted and degenerate demimonde of paranoia, schizophrenia, degradation, pill-induced violence and suicide. There are certain records that are so patently offensive that one wishes to take some kind …

We welcome YOU once again to Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books 15th Annual Children's Book Cover Illustration Competition! This vibrant event showcases and celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of artists from all around the world. As we continue to foster a love for highlighting the unsung heroes/teams of our favourite book covers. Join us on this exciting journey and spread the word

I saw this post by Kyana and really liked the idea that changing something’s name a little can conjure up a whole new idea. I’m looking at it as sort of impressionistic wordplay. Kyana’s idea and execution is subtle and intelligent, my ‘take’ (as you will see) on Kyana’s idea is much more low-brow, but I think still offers some interesting use for a DM looking for some new monster …

The last winter tale for this season: “The Phantom Coach.” No, not the one by Amelia Edwards (which is also a Christmas tale), but a series of articles by Augustus Jessopp that first appeared in the Illustrated London News in 1893-1894. The three articles were compiled together and republished in Jessopp’s 1896 collection, Frivola. If you have never heard of the Phantom Coach that travels about the old roads and …

For the last few months, there's been a lot of conversation around the "Department" of Government Efficiency, which is ostensibly an effort at improving government efficency, with a primary narrative being around government spending. This is not the actual purpose of DOGE, and it's worth explaining what's going on here, but first we have to cover a few key background ideas. A starting point that's important to mention: DOGE is …

I made this yesterday for a Mexican lunch with family, and it turned out great! Directions In a blender, mix all of the rice and 2 cups of hot water until roughly ground. Add the remaining 2 cups of hot water to the blender and blend further. Pour the contents of the blender into a jug or container with a lid and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours. …

For the first survey of the year I headed up to Southport where there are umpteen targets awaiting my attention. I walked northwards along Lord Street, noting and photographing (It'll be dark by the time I get back) various targets, until I reached Mavericks:Here I found a very stylishly decorated bar with an American theme, in one long room. Being a former shop on a corner, two walls are almost …