Science Fiction Writers's topics - tribe.net

Fiction and Poetry in Oct./Nov. Asimov's

2009-09-24T22:12:20Z

My poem "Derivative Work" and novelette "Flotsam" appear in the October/November Asimov's.

From the intro to "Flotsam": "Elissa Malcohn burst into our pages in November 1984 with her intensely powerful story 'Lazuli.' Although another tale appeared in our Mid-December 1986 issue, we've been waiting twenty-three years for the third. We're delighted that the hiatus ends with 'Flotsam,' a story that was partly informed by Elissa's employment at a government contractor during some of those intervening years."

Matt Bruensteiner, Garbled Signals (http://garbledsignals.wordpress.com/2009/09/09/asimovs-octobernovember-2009/ ), commenting on "Flotsam," writes:

"As a young girl Mercedes discovered a biological 'impossibility' in the polluted coastal waters of her city. The discovery, and the way it was denied haunts her throughout her life in the working class world of the US-Mexican border. Working blue collar jobs, she spends her free time researching the impossibility she’s sure she remembers from childhood. An excellent story, which does particularly well at blending the story of Mercedes as a person between cultures into an sf story."

My story in the mid-December 1986 Asimov's was "The S.O.B Show," a fond spoof informed by five years of volunteer planetarium work. The title took its name from the field's nickname for the "Star of Bethlehem," or Christmas, show.

"Lazuli," a science fictional treatment of childhood sexual abuse and my first professional sale, single-handedly placed me on the final ballot for the 1985 John W. Campbell Award.

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Worldcon report; story in Year's Best SF recommended reading list

2009-08-12T22:12:49Z

You can find my long and photo-heavy report here:

http://hurricanecountry.blogspot.com/2009/08/bonjour-hi-worldcon-report.html

Among the highlights: My story "Hermit Crabs" is on the "recommended reading" list in The Year's Best Science Fiction, 26th Annual Edition. And Electric Velocipede, which published the story, received the Hugo Award for Best Fanzine.

That makes three publications in which my fiction has appeared that won awards this year. Riffing on Strings won an IPPY Silver Medal and Unspeakable Horror won a Bram Stoker Award. Not bad :D

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Deviations reviewed at Old Musty Books; Unspeakable Horror Wins a Bram Stoker Award; more

2009-06-24T22:21:09Z

Rachel Baker at Old Musty Books writes, "If you are looking for something different with a great story line, I would suggest reading these books. They are very well written and draw the reader into the story, possibly against their will."

My blog entry has the details:
http://deviationstrilogy.blogspot.com/2009/06/thank-yous.html

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Riffing on Strings Receives IPPY Silver Medal

2009-05-18T23:24:03Z

Riffing on Strings: Creative Writing Inspired by String Theory (Scriblerus Press), which contains my story "Arachne," has won an IPPY Silver Medal. Details at http://bit.ly/BjqdR.

"Arachne" originally appeared in the Dec. 1988 issue of Aboriginal Science Fiction. Writing it was a fabulous ride that I blogged about here:
http://hurricanecountry.blogspot.com/2005/07/weaving-without-loom.html

The anthology includes fiction, poetry, essays, artwork, and a play. Congratulations to editors Sean Miller and Shveta Verma and to all contributors! Ordering info at
http://www.banyancollege.org/scriblerus/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=6&Itemid=38

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Appetite Released/Upcoming Radio Spot/Oasis/New Plains Review

2009-05-16T17:49:19Z

Vol. 2 of my series, Deviations: Appetite, is now live! The sequel to Covenant was originally slated to be released by Aisling Press in 2008, before that publisher folded. I'm now offering both volumes as free downloads, with plans to release Vol. 3, Destiny, in December.

You can tune in on May 28th at 6:30 PM ET to hear me on Blogtalk radio. I'll be Mark Eller's guest on Chronicles ( http://www.blogtalkradio.com/MarkEller ), a joint project of The Write Stuff (http://www.thewritestufftv.com/ ) and Shadow Play Entertainment.

I'll also be a guest at Oasis, the convention hosted by the Orlando Area Science Fiction Society, May 22-24.

A creative nonfiction piece appears in the "Short Takes" section of New Plains Review's "Service" issue, Spring 2009.

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Story Acceptance and Publicity

2009-04-08T01:57:46Z

My story "Judgment at Naioth" has been accepted to the Dybbuk Press anthology She Nailed a Stake Through His Head: Tales of Biblical Terror.

The horror anthology title refers to the incident in Judges 4:21. My story does some Midrash on much of 2 Samuel.

Thanks to Julianne Draper, who profiled me at
http://www.examiner.com/x-6332-Tampa-SciFiFantasy-Books-Examiner~y2009m4d1-Author-Profile-Elissa-Malcohn

Julianne blogs for the Miami Examiner's online Tampa edition.

A second publication in which my work has appeared is up for an award. In addition to Unspeakable Horror being on the final Bram Stoker Award ballot, the magazine Electric Velocipede (which published my story "Hermit Crabs" last year in #14) is on the ballot for a Hugo Award:
http://anticipationsf.ca/English/Hugos
Congrats to editor John Klima!

The interview that hosts Glenda and Tony Finkelstein did with me last October at Necronomicon is now airing on the Internet radio show The Andromeda Library, which broadcasts daily from 4-6 a.m. and p.m. Eastern Time on Ad Astra Radio. Glenda's blog gives details:
http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=181623487&blogId=481161835

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Unspeakable Horror Becomes Bram Stoker Award Finalist; Covenant Re-released

2009-03-25T05:13:39Z

Unspeakable Horror: From the Shadows of the Closet (Dark Scribe Press, 2008) has reached the final ballot for the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in an Anthology.

My story "Memento Mori" appears in the anthology, in very good company!

To read about this year's Stoker Awards, given by the Horror Writers Association: http://www.stokers2009.org/
To get anthology details, including links to reviews and interviews: http://www.darkscribemagazine.com/about-the-anthology/
To order Unspeakable Horror: http://astore.amazon.com/darkscrimaga-20/detail/0981863205

Congratulations and thanks go to editors Vince Liaguno and Chad Helder and to everyone involved with the work. And congratulations to all the other Stoker finalists!

In other news, I've re-released Covenant, the first installment of my six-volume Deviations series (and the SF part of this post), as a free download. Details and download link here:

http://home.earthlink.net/~deviations/index.html

Covenant was originally published by Aisling Press in 2007. The sequel, Appetite, was to be released last September.

Downloads of the second edition (ISBN 978-0-9819764-0-2, distribution allowed, all other rights reserved) are available in formats compatible with Kindle, Microsoft Reader, Palm and other PDAs, and Sony Reader, plus .pdf and HTML files that can be read on a browser. I plan to post Appetite before the summer.

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A Cautionary Tale: Let The Seller Beware

2009-02-27T09:06:35Z

See this post for info:
http://hurricanecountry.blogspot.com/2009/02/let-seller-beware.html

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reading scripts and transcripts of tv shows

2009-02-25T00:44:42Z

yesterday i read the script to the FARSCAPE ep entitled "PK Tech Girl",
today I read the script to the pilot of Gene Roddenberry's ANDROMEDA.

pretty good. of course it's NOT the same as reading a novel, is it.
more like somewhere right between reading a novel and watching tv...

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Lunacon 2009

2009-02-04T08:33:32Z

Well Con goers it is nearly that time again! Lunacon is almost here with a Guest of Honor who not only hasn't been in the USA in five years, is looking forward to his first stint as Guest of Honor. Dave Freer who has over a dozen books on the shelf ranging from epic fantasy to space opera to urban fantasy will be touching down in time to meet the people he writes for. Larry Dixon will be Artist Guest of Honor, the Special Guest will be Mercedes Lackey and Eric Flint will be Toastmaster.
Don't forget: Lunacon March 20-22, the greatest con this side of the moon.

Dave Freer can be found on LJ at http://davefreer.livejournal.com
http://lunacon.org

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Story live at Helix and my turn on-camera

2008-10-03T00:16:23Z

My short story "Prometheus Rebound" is now live at Helix #10, over at

http://www.helixsf.com/index.htm

I've blogged about the story's inspiration at
http://deviationstrilogy.blogspot.com/2008/10/story-live-at-helix.html

You can also watch me do a turn as "Commander Mal" on Sci-Fi Times TV, over at

http://www.scifitimestv.com/

where I pop in briefly to give the hosts a hard time near the beginning of the show. (An interview with me as myself will air on October 8.) The show streams on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. Eastern and is then "on demand" the following week before it goes to the archives. I've also embedded the premiere on my website
http://home.earthlink.net/~emalcohn/index.html
(or do a Web search on "Malcohn's World")

Thanks! -- Elissa

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Sacramento comic creators make it to TOP 10 in Worldwide Competition!

2008-08-17T22:15:08Z

Hi, all. This is Ben Schwartz, a Sacramento comic store owner and small press comic publisher with ECV Press. I am also a co-writer with Hai-Na-Nu Saulque on our new project Hank Houston. We entered a worldwide competition to find the best new comic for Platinum Studios to produce and we have made it to the TOP 10.

From this point forward the winner will be determined by your votes. We need your support and help to spread the word! Please take a look at our website where you will find, concept sketches, alien designs, pin-ups, daily webcomics and a link to give us your vote! Give us a vote and tell your friends.

www.hankhouston.com

Thank you in advance for all of your support and help in taking Hank Houston to the TOP!

Ben Schwartz

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When did you know...

2008-08-14T20:44:51Z

that you just loved the stuff, passionately, desperately with all your heart....

O.K. liked it immensely and wanted to create some.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Readercon report

2008-07-26T16:39:59Z

I had a blast at Readercon! My report is over at
http://deviationstrilogy.blogspot.com/2008/07/readercon.html

This past week my mail brought contributor's copies of Space and Time #104 (which contains my poem "First Contact in Appalachia"), We'Moon '09 (which contains my poem "Ancient Wisdom Distilled"), The Drabbler #11 (which contains my short-short story "Houston, We Are the Problem"), and galleys for my poem "Derivative Work," forthcoming in Asimov's (issue TBD).

The entry also cites more praise for my story "Hermit Crabs" (Electric Velocipede #14) and a recommendation of Covenant -- and I've learned that Deviations: Appetite, the second volume in my series, is now available for pre-order at Barnes & Noble.

And I'm off to Denvention in less than two weeks.

First priority: Catching up on sleep and striving for coherence... :-)

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dublit writing contest

2008-06-09T06:40:45Z

For those of you who may be interested, I saw that www.dublit.com is sponsoring a short story contest.
Prices $$ are pretty good and come together with media exposure.
There is not a huge number of submissions so far so chances are quite high!

http://dublit.com/contest

cheers,

Stephan

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Dark Scribe/Riffing on Strings/Electric Velocipede

2008-05-17T20:04:07Z

Dark Scribe Magazine/Dark Scribe Press has been unveiling -- slooooooowly and torrrrrturously, one day at a time -- the bios of contributors to its Unspeakable Horror: From the Shadows of the Closet anthology, which will include my story "Memento Mori." My bio went up yesterday. You can see it and the others unveiled so far at
http://www.darkscribemagazine.com/unspeakable-horror-from-the-sh/

And I've gotten the new flyer for Riffing on Strings: Creative Writing Inspired by String Theory, which contains my story "Arachne." Contributor's copies are en route and the anthology is available for order. Release is June 1. More info from Scriblerus Press is at
http://www.banyancollege.org/scriblerus/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=6&Itemid=38

Speaking of book promotions, I got this URL for Dennis Cass's hilarious gem
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxschLOAr-s

courtesy of Lisa Mantchev's blog ( http://lisamantchev.livejournal.com/ ). Lisa and I both have stories in Electric Velocipede #14, which debuts at WisCon next week. Sneak preview over at
http://blog.electricvelocipede.com/2008/04/sneak-preview.html

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short story writing books- X post

2008-04-17T17:10:49Z

Hello out there!
I am looking for a great book on writing short stories. I have a friend who is very good and whose birthday is coming up. There is always room for improvement and he loves to read. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Thanks in advance. Oh BTW, the birthday is soon so if I need to order something let me know quick. Thanks again!

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PSA: For US-based SASEs

2008-03-16T00:40:28Z

Given that snail-mail submissions/SASEs tend to have a several-month turnaround, here's the USPS list of new postage prices effective May 12, 2008:

http://www.usps.com/prices/welcome.htm?from=bannercommunications&page=prices

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A plot grid

2008-02-23T02:59:29Z

Although most budding novelists display exceptional writing skills, I have learned that their most failure has been in weaving together an appealing plot - good beginning, middle and end.

I recall from a few decades ago a "novelist's grid" published in Playboy Magazine. Some of this was satire, but the fact was that the grid was a perfect step by step process for any novelist to formulate a plot. If anyone can find that grid and post it herein, s/he will be doing many writers here a great service.

The satirical intent therein wasn't that the author was attempting to make all novels appear like Danielle Steele. Certain humorous elements were incluced such politically-correct gimmicks as displaying villans as "neo-nazis," which hacks in the TV industry in particular continue including to this day. (There is nothing whatsoever wrong with showing the demographic group of true villans as who they are (Islamic radicals, inner-city thugs, or political demagogues of any stripe.)

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 1 reply

BLACK MAGIC WOMAN

2008-02-02T15:53:57Z

It gives me immense pleasure to announce the publication of my urban fantasy novel, BLACK MAGIC WOMAN.

It’s in most bookstores, and available online from Amazon and other dealers.

Here are 13 things you didn’t know about BLACK MAGIC WOMAN -- both the plot and the book itself.

1. The hero (well, one of them), Quincey Morris, is the great-great-grandson of the
Texan who died at the end of the original DRACULA. Contending with
supernatural evil has become something of a Morris family tradition.

2. The book was released in the UK and Australia on January 8th. The North
American release date was pushed back to January 29th because of a problem at
the North American printer.

3. African “muti” magic sometimes involves the use of human organs – which must be “harvested” while the victim is still alive.

4. "White" witch Libby Chastain, Quincey's partner in the investigation, is
bisexual, and a devout practitioner of what she calls "serial monogamy."

5. Jim Butcher, author of the "Dresden Files" novels, was kind enough to read
the manuscript pre-publication. As quoted on the book's cover, he calls BLACK
MAGIC WOMAN "the best manuscript I've ever been asked to read."

6. Quincey Morris is terrified of snakes, having almost died from
snakebite as a young boy. If only he knew….

7. Simon R. Green, author of the John Taylor 'Nightside" novels, was sent an
advance reading copy of BLACK MAGIC WOMAN and said, "This is a novel that's packed with story and engaging characters, and I can't wait to read the next one."

8. "White" magic cannot be used to do harm to somebody -- which doesn't mean
that you can't use it sometimes to kick somebody’s ass, as Libby Chastain knows full well.

9. Waterstones, the largest UK bookstore chain, has designated BLACK MAGIC
WOMAN as its featured SF/Fantasy title of the month. It's got its own display
in each of their 300-some stores. And if that ain’t freakin’ awesome, I don’t know what is.

10. It’s possible to drive off a bunch of zombies without having to “kill” them. All you need is the right magic – and a skilled magician to use it.

11. The South African national police really does have an Occult Crimes
Investigation Unit, although my character, Garth Van Dreenan, is not based on any
real person.

12. Vampires really do hate sunlight. A lot.

13. When you make a deal with the devil, the notes come due in brimstone.

Thanks for indulging me, everybody. I hope I've piqued your interest and that
you'll take a look at my novel. I'm kinda proud of it.

Justin
www.justingustainis.com

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On the Air

2008-02-01T22:43:36Z

I will be doing a phone interview tonight as part of the "Jordan Rich Show Book Club, Winter 2008 edition."

The interview will occur at around 12:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, February 2 (the show runs from midnight to 5 a.m.). It can be heard on

http://www.wbz.com/pages/6202.php

where you can click on the blue "Listen Live" button in the upper right.

I was at the WBZ studio in Boston for my first appearance on the Jordan Rich Show in October 2002. At that time Jordan invited me back when I had a book published -- so, here I am! The second volume in my series is due out later this year.

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Winter Workout

2008-01-30T22:21:31Z

G'day,

I'm doing a slush reading marathon. You're invited. It's called the Winter Workout, the link for the place to respond is at the bottom. Or you an send me a message through Tribe's message service.

Cheers,

How it works:
Everyone who sends me a science fiction, fantasy, or urban fantasy novel between 10pm ET on February 4th, and 8am ET on February 6th will get at least one full chapter (up to fifty pages) read and critiqued by me. Many, will get theirs back the same day. To do this I will be reading for twenty four straight hours. My goal is to pass the mark i made last year which was 19 first chapters and critiques. To do this, if I am still reading after one chapter or fifty pages I will send the writer an email that says "Still Reading after one." or something similar.

Last time i picked up two clients out of this, and have one more resubmission in my inbox waiting to be read.

Writers should note that I use the same four part critique form for everyone. The sections are: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly, and The Rest.

Everyone should add my domain to their spam filters immediately. When you submit you will get an auto-response telling you it has been received. Anyone who does not follow the submission guidelines on my website will be rejected without being read. www.Onyxhawke.com

Notes:
If i get the same size response or larger as last year, I will not get to everyone on that Wednesday. I will still read everything. Everyone who has submitted things to the regular submission inbox will be read between now and 2/6. My replies may start very soon after midnight as I read and type pretty quickly.

Most importantly: go spread the word, the more submissions i get, the happier I'll be.

Edit: the email address for submissions for the Winter Workout is: ww@Onyxhawke.com

http://onyxhawke.livejournal.com/38388.html

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"ROSE" my new short novel in progress

2008-01-03T02:12:54Z

Here is the synopsis:

"Rose is a fifteen year old girl in suburban America in 1999, trying to cope with the fact that she can't relate to anyone else in the world.
On her first day of high school, however, she sees a boy that apparently no one else can see. So she is faced with a question: Is the boy real or imaginary?
Over time, he tells Rose things about his past and her future that may change her life forever.
And so begins Rose's journey of mystery, suspense, fantasy, love, and sacrifice. A Moment in Time begins..."

It is mainly fiction, but obviously has some sci-fi/fantasy elements. I started writing "Rose" earlier this year in creative writing class, and just took off with it from there. The book will have three parts when all is said and done. Part 1 is done (50 pages), and Part 2 is about there as well (its past the 70 page mark already). Everyone who has read it so far (about five or six friends and family members) loves it, which is a first for me. Writing from a girl's perspective isn't nearly as hard as everyone seems to think. Maybe it's because I don't currently have a girlfriend, but finding the inspiration to write romance scenes has been tough.

As for posting Part 1, I am kind of wary, since whatever you post on here is automatically owned by Tribe (right?). But if you would like to read it, I can always email it to you.

Also, I'm wondering where some good sci-fi/fantasy short novel publishers can be found. I searched on google and got a storm of crap.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Acceptance to Unspeakable Horror anthology

2007-12-31T20:51:59Z

To round out an extraordinary publishing year...

This morning I got word that my story "Memento Mori" was accepted to the anthology Unspeakable Horror: From the Shadows of the Closet, to be published by Dark Scribe Press.

I've posted my publications tally for 2007 over at
http://hurricanecountry.blogspot.com/2007/12/tally-ho.html

Blessings to you all for 2008. Happy New Year and beyond!

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what kind of projects are you all working on?

2007-12-27T18:09:02Z

just wondering what everyone else is up to in terms of writing. feel free to update us all on any developments and so forth. i've been working on a sci-fi/action novel titled "A Moment in Time: Section 41" for four years now. its almost 99,000 words long, my lengthiest title yet! i'm damn proud of it, and it just keeps getting better. i want to one day make it into a movie, where i would write and direct, obviously.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 20 replies

Why....

2007-12-26T13:07:44Z

... is this place such a ghost town?

Since when don't writers write??

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 12 replies

Book contract signed (really, this has been an extraordinary week!)

2007-12-26T06:35:43Z

I've just signed a contract with Aisling Press for Appetite, the second volume in my Deviations series. (The first volume, Covenant, is available at http://www.aislingpress.com and elsewhere. I've got vendor links up at http://home.earthlink.net/~emalcohn/deviations.html .)

And I've made arrangements to be on the Jordan Rich Show (WBZ Newsradio 1030 Boston) on Saturday, February 2, 2008. The show will focus on fiction authors and will run from midnight to 5 AM Eastern time. We plan to do an interview by phone around 12:30, and will firm up details as we get closer to the air date. The show is broadcast nationwide and is accessible on the Web at
http://www.wbz.com/pages/6202.php

I was a guest on Jordan's show in October 2002 (I lived in Boston then, so was over at the studio), and we spent a great hour talking about science fiction with each other and with listeners who called in. Afterwards, he invited me back when I had a book published.

Here I am... :-)

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 3 replies

Free Writing Class

2007-12-25T00:08:01Z

I'm not sure who might be interested but I thought I'd post this anyway!

www.fmwriters.com is a great site. If you're looking for some help getting a novel started then the owner is starting a great class that starts the frist of Jan. It's 2 years long, an assignment a week, but it's great for anyone looking to give their writing an extra jump. I've taken the class two times.

tell us if you decide to join up! I talked myself into signing up again! (now to find an idea.... hmmm)

www.fmwriters.com/community...cboard.php

You will have to join fmwriters.com to post and join the class.

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So how do _you_ avoid...

2007-12-24T07:13:42Z

Writing badly gendered characters?
By this i mean writing "Men with tits" and "Women with dicks" ?

As a reader, and an agent i really have to say this is one of the characterization failures that annoys me most. I'm not talking about writing homosexual characters, just ones that don't act like the vast majority of their gender.

So what do you do to make sure your characters behavior matches their official gender?

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 5 replies

New member

2007-12-24T07:11:58Z

Hi. Just getting acquainted. I'd like to eventually swap stories or chapters to critique with a few other writers. But for now I'm looking around--you know, typical newbee.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 9 replies

WHat a Bore... another new-be

2007-12-24T07:09:17Z

Just checked into theis shuttle and interested in opinions, strong beliefs and ideas of what it takes to take your baby to the end.
I'm a writer. have 6 under my belt and have yet to get anything pubed at this time.
I can write (in my and my proofer's opinion) but seem frozen when it comes to actually sending my new borns out.
Have a terror that strikes me of having my work stolen. (I have no fears or rejection at all, as I've seen it in the past in other writing forms I've done but heard so many horror stories of lost works, I don't know where to go next.) I can accept an honest opinion on my work as what it is and look at every comment with an open mind.
Any ideas on how to go from a finished, proofed and polished piece to the next step of sending it out.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 7 replies

TriggerStreet.com now accepting short stories and novels

2007-12-24T07:04:13Z

Up until recently, TriggerStreet was accepting only short films and screenplays. Since then, they've added plays and now short stories and books to their site.

From their e-mail to me:
"Since its inception, TriggerStreet.com has been the place to go if you wanted to find exposure and feedback for your Screenplays and Short Films online. Now, in addition to being able to upload your Short Stories to the site, a section we launched earlier this year, you can now also upload Books that you have written."

Normally a member must submit a couple of reviews of others' work before submitting their own, but there is currently a "free" period (meaning no previous review is needed) for short story and book uploads.

Creative Commons has a post that pretty much encapsulates what TriggerStreet is about, at
http://creativecommons.org/weblog/entry/4419

I haven't used the site, myself, but I became interested in it after seeing Kevin Spacey (who founded it) interviewed on the Charlie Rose PBS show a while back.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 3 replies

who are you sending to

2007-12-24T07:01:40Z

So I've just tried http://www.andromedaspaceways.com/issue1.htm

Who have you been sending your short stories to??????????//

Patrick

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 5 replies

Alternative "print" outlets?

2007-12-24T06:59:53Z

(please excuse me if I need to read me of the posts, but...)

For Deborah in New Mexico and other new authors worried about loosing control of the work and dwindling Sci-Fi markets, is there a service yet that allows authors to show previews of their work and then charge a nominal fee for a complete download of the work?

It seems like this would be the ideal way to "Sneak Preview" something to a likely audience and then only release the contents perhaps a chapter at a time when each is desired. I cannot tell you how many times I began a book and got two to three chapters in before being sidetracked onto something else. If this sort of thing is happening to many other readers out in the market, wouldn't it be better to get paid for a few chapters than nothing at all?

I am no computer programmer, so I can only suggest methods for secure content distribution, download or password protecting electronic documents, I can't write the code to make it work.

If such a service as this is already available, or presently in the works (Amazon.com has an e-book device in development I hear), please forgive my uninformed observation.

I suppose we all must change with the times and suspect the days of the paperback novel may be waning.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Just got an acceptance to Helix

2007-12-22T11:42:21Z

My story "Prometheus Rebound" has just been accepted to Helix: A Speculative Fiction Quarterly. I don't know which issue it will be in, but it will be available for free perusal when it goes live. I'll post a link when it's up.

That now makes four stories forthcoming, joining "Identity Theft" in The Drabbler #10, "Hermit Crabs" in Electric Velocipede #14, and "Arachne" in Riffing on Strings: Creative Writing Inspired by String Theory (Scriblerus Press, June 08). "Arachne" will be a reprint, having originally appeared in Aboriginal Science Fiction's Nov./Dec. 1988 issue.

Grinnnnnn.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

A new story

2007-11-09T22:00:05Z

So if anyone want to correct my spelling or gammer, "I LOVE YOU!"
Also welcom comments,
Or just injoy reading it.

Patrick

The world I

Civics Awareness Class:
Q18: What does doing your part, and pushing your dream, look like to you?

Wow, what a question! The only way I can think of to answer it is to start with a description of my day. A very good day, if I say so myself.
My name is Jack O'Donner and this is a typical day for me in the late 21st century. I am wakened, as usual, by the doorbell and the alarm clock going off at exactly the same time. This feels good, because it means that the day is starting right on schedule.
The sunlight is coming through the window of our second-story bedroom. The peach-colored drapes look their best at this time of day. The air controller has added a scent called “After the Rain”. It feels like a good morning.
Rolling over, I pull my computer monitor to me. In the bed beside me, my wife is doing the same. First, I pull up the picture of our front door. It shows that the school prep company has already sent two workers to help in getting our children ready for their day. The young man and woman are holding up their IDs to the camera, even though I know both of them by sight. I check with the security program to see if the system has a positive match on the ID verification and facial-recognition. It does, so I type in the door-open code.
Looking over to my wife’s monitor, I see that she has split her screen so that she can check on both of our children at the same time. Although both have alarm clocks, neither has moved to get out of bed.
I track with the hall camera as the child-care workers come into my residence, switching to the children’s rooms as they go into those. As I watch, the workers, a tall African-American woman for Jill, and a shorter Asian man for Sam, go to the beds and begin gently shaking the children to wake them up. That, of course, means that it is time for me to get up too.
I got into my bathroom and push the all-male button under the label “Gender”. If I forget, the computer will warn any females at the security company, but since I work in the field myself, I try to be helpful to the watcher. I know personally how difficult their work can be.
By the time I finish showering and dressing, the child-care workers have my children out of the house. Being a good parent, I check their schedule for the day. They are eating breakfast at a restaurant that specializes in before-school meals. Then they go to a children’s morning center to shower and get changed into school clothes. I look quickly through their class schedule, since my wife keeps a closer watch on that part of the parenting. Let’s see, when classes are over, child-care workers pick them up for an after-school meal. Both have full after-school activities and assigned workers to take them. The TV and games are programmed for their evening at a children’s center, then bedtime workers take them for showers and put them into their night clothes before bringing them home and to bed. So now that I've done my parental duties for the day, it is time to get myself to work.
My robot car has not arrived by the time I am outside. The company we are using needs to make some improvements, as this is the third time this month. As I wait, I look around and see that a new camera has been installed near the rail station. Good, they are on top of things. It had been one of my neighbors who had pointed out that there was a point right next to the station that the two cameras at the intersection didn't quite cover.
My car arrives. I always try to guess if it’s one that I've used before. I make my guess and then order the vehicle number up on the display. I’m wrong again. Oh, well.
I push my palm down on the reader. "Work, please". It’s so nice that the computers know where everyone works, lives and shops, so that you don't have to remember all of those addresses yourself.
I am glad to see that the city has at last added the cameras it needed, so that there are no longer any blind spots on the road between my apartment and work. I'm one of the residents who wrote and complained about that, more than once.
Of course, there are no such worries inside any of my company’s buildings. After all, when your motto is "Perfect security is our goal", you have to have the latest in surveillance technology.
My job is to review surveillance recordings that have been flagged as matching computer-generated profiles. This week I'm on the Pedophile Alert Team. The computer first uses a program that calculates what part of the child's body an adult is looking at. It does this using the pupil size, reflected lighting and pupil orientation of the adult’s eye, and the distance of the adult from the child.
Next, the computer uses a complex formula that takes into account how long the adult watches each part of the child's body; what activity the child is involved in at the time; and what relationship the adult has to the child.
The computer is pretty good, and I usually agree with its recommendations. Especially on the First-timer hits, as all that they do is put the adult on a higher Watch List. Second-timers I'm a little more cautious on, as a citation requires that the adult come in for an interview. So I try to see if there are any extenuating circumstances before I pass the program’s recommendation on. Any hits after the Second go to a higher level than me.
There are only six hits this morning. Just one is a Second, and that is at a hospital where the child has had a minor injury, so I overrule the program. All in all, a very stressful job, but it has only taken me about an hour and a half. This means that I have time to work on my project.
Each worker is encouraged to use any spare time they have to work on projects that the company puts out. I usually work on recommendations on how to make us more productive.
The subject of the day is "How to increase our membership". Sadly, over 15% of households are still not under Full Security Coverage. The company wants worker input on how to convince the holdouts of the safety and peace to be gotten through friendly observation.
I think at this point that we’ll only get higher coverage when the state makes security 100% mandatory. Still, California is one of 15 states where people with no major criminal records, and not working in law, medicine or education have the option for partial privacy. Attempts to change the law are getting closer to success, but still fall far short of the 2/3rds majority needed. So for now, it’s just ads and persuasion for those who still cannot see the desperate need for personal security.
I open up a file that I'd already started working on. It is just a string of ideas that might be turned into slogans or catchy visuals.
This all kind of brings me back to the original question, "What does doing your part, and pushing your dream, look like to you?" My job is more than just a job. Besides being useful to society, it also through these special projects gives me a chance to pursue my dream, which is nothing less than perfect safety. Not just safety from crime and accident, which we have already made great headway in, but also from the mental disorders that can cause us to hurt ourselves and the ones we love.
Oh, I know there remain some old-fashioned ideas about privacy, which are ridiculous in a world where our every expense and all of our movements are recorded and tracked. Yes, I know that there is still some irrational fear of abuse by governments or corporate powers, but remember that they will be watched just as closely or more than you are. Still, with the right forms of public education and awareness, I believe that these fears can be addressed. I read on-line the other day of small towns that have reached 100% voluntary participation. Of course, they’re nowhere near the size of our city, but it gives me hope.
After all, a person does need something to strive for. Why not perfect security?

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Dissonance Theory

2007-11-02T18:18:40Z

I wrote a story that was turned into a screenplay
for the apple insomnia festival
below is a link to the video
and the original story
you guys might find it interesting
it has a scifi-philosophical bend toward it

http://edcommunity.apple.com/insomnia_fall07/item.php?itemID=545

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog&Mytoken=71BEDB11-2F67-4455-A6425DFCF9463D5B9946567

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Interview

2007-10-30T02:56:56Z

Just a little crow... I was down at the St. Petersburg Times Festival of Reading on Saturday (which was wonderful) and was interviewed by Brad Stager, Program Director of the WUSF Radio Reading Service. Part of that interview is near the end of a two-minute audio slide show now up at WUSF.org. Links and a still shot are at:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/30268343@N00/1801181630/

More photos and details about the festival are up at:

http://deviationstrilogy.blogspot.com/2007/10/from-panel-to-st-petersburg.html

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Apple Insomnia Film Festival

2007-10-14T21:55:49Z

did anyone participate in this?

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Acceptance to String Theory Anthology

2007-10-13T06:56:15Z

My story "Arachne," originally published in Aboriginal Science Fiction (November-December 1988), has been accepted for reprinting in the String Theory Anthology forthcoming from Scriblerus Press, the publishing arm of the Banyan Institute.

http://www.banyancollege.org/scriblerus/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=6&Itemid=35

Wrote editor Sean Miller:

"I'd love to discuss with you what it is about your piece that we appreciate so much, and I'm hoping that as we approach publication, we'll have the chance to do so. But for now, due to time constraints, we can only offer you this somewhat generic approbation and welcome."

Grinnnnnnnn.

The anthology is scheduled to go to press in May 2008. My blog entry "Weaving Without a Loom" ( http://hurricanecountry.blogspot.com/2005/07/weaving-without-loom.html ) describes my process of writing that story (the photo of the spider up top is before my "good camera" days).

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In Print!

2007-10-10T03:53:45Z

Advance copies of my novel Deviations: Covenant made their debut at Necronomicon, Tampa's annual science fiction/fantasy/horror convention. More info is at

http://people.tribe.net/0563a508-c05e-4e85-9680-ba4966fb1d2c/blog/f9c40b4c-61f3-43c8-a4c8-01ba616fb132

I brought back copies to have at several local promotional events I'm doing this month. Aisling Press ( http://www.aislingpress.com ) will release Covenant on November 28. Copies can be pre-ordered at discount through Aisling, and also through Barnes & Noble.

I'm trying to figure out if it's all hit me yet, since I've now launched into Sales Mode. :)

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Anyone going to Necronomicon in Tampa this weekend?

2007-10-04T05:14:19Z

I'll be on a dark poetry panel Saturday morning and will also be publicizing my novel Deviations: Covenant.

I'll have advance copies there (which I haven't seen yet). Covenant is available for pre-order at discount from Aisling Press -- http://www.aislingpress.com -- and is now also listed on Barnes & Noble. Street release is scheduled for November 28.

Back in the 80s my story "Lazuli" (Asimov's, Nov. '84) got me on the final ballot for the 1985 John W. Campbell Award for best new sf writer of the year, and "Moments of Clarity" (the first Full Spectrum anthology, Bantam Books, 1988) reached preliminary ballot for a Nebula Award, given by the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America.

Covenant is my first published novel (I started trying to sell novel-length work more than 30 years ago), so "excited" doesn't begin to describe how I feel right now. :)

I've also got a few local bookstore and library events planned, and I'll be at the St. Petersburg Times Festival of Reading at the end of the month.

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A Place for Short Stories Writers -- help!

2007-10-03T01:27:58Z

Hi There,
my name is Stefano (the real one).
With a group of writers friends we put together this website: alpha.dublit.com
dublit is on online community of writers, readers & listeners of short-form literature.

I need some help to get the website bootstrapped with some good quality content... who wants to help?
In case the idea thrills you we are looking for beta testers. We don't have money to pay you but we can give you one of our kickass t-shirts ;-)

The idea is.. sign up on alpha.dublit.com, click on submit audioshort and read one of your best stories (there is an online recording tool), done! At this point people can listen, rate, review your story.

Thanks for any writing contribute!!

Stefano

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Drabble Contest: A last-minute quickie!

2007-09-29T16:19:46Z

This contest started on August 1, but I just learned of it today. Its deadline is (*cough!*) tomorrow.

The Tenth Between Kisses Drabble Contest
http://www.samsdotpublishing.com/betweenkisses/DrabbleContest010.htm

A "drabble" is a very short story containing exactly 100 words...no more, no less. Its title is limited to 15 words, no more.

Deadline: 2400 hours Central Standard Time on 30 September 2007

See the website for more info.

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Need short (short) original angel stories or quotes

2007-09-18T15:34:50Z

I'm working on a project and would like to have 12 to 20 three to five sentence long angel stories. If the project were successful I would buy more. Willing to pay .50 per story accepted. If you’re interested contact me for more details.

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Speculative History writing

2007-09-13T16:32:04Z

Hi guys,

I'm putting together a speculative history ezine. If anyone is interested in in submitting some articles, they can contact me. I'll send you a grammatically unsound brief of the kind of stuff I'm looking for. Thanks.

Rusty

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strong ending

2007-09-12T22:06:25Z

What do you think is a strong ending to a story? Is it when everything is resolved and explained? When everything just ends ubruptly? Or when the conflict is resolved but the characters still have purpose and are left with things to do? Or is it something totally different? I ask this for two reasons. First, I am getting to the end of my first story I have written in years. Second, I have read a ton of books lately that had unsatifying endings. Either everything is all roses and sunshine and there is no troubles left in the world or the other extreme where the major conflict is resolved and then the words: THE END! I just wanted to get some opinions.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 6 replies

happy birthday edgar rice burroughs

2007-09-01T12:38:37Z

It's the birthday of one of the most popular pulp fiction writers in American history, Edgar Rice Burroughs, born in Chicago (1875). He had read Darwin's book Descent of Man, and he was fascinated by the idea that human beings were related to apes. He began to wonder what might happen if a child from an excessively noble, well-bred family were somehow left in the jungle to be raised by apes. The result was his story "Tarzan of the Apes," which filled an entire issue of All-Story magazine in October of 1912. It was one of the most popular issues the magazine had ever published, and within six-months, Edgar Rice Burroughs was a full-time writer producing about 400,000 words of short stories every year.

Burroughs went on to write all kinds of stories, from science fiction to adventure, but Tarzan was his most popular character and one of the most widely recognized fictional characters of all time. When the first Tarzan movie came out in 1918, as a silent film, it was one of the first movies ever to gross more than $1 million. There have since been more than 40 Tarzan movies, as well as comic strips, radio serials, and TV shows. When asked why he though Tarzan was so popular, Burroughs said, "[Tarzan] provides escape from the narrow confines of the city streets ... from the restrictions of man-made laws, and the inhibitions that society has placed upon us. We would each like to be Tarzan. At least I would; I admit it."

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happy birthday ray bradbury

2007-08-22T11:19:04Z

It's the birthday of science fiction writer Ray Bradbury, born in Waukegan, Illinois (1920). When he was 12 years old, a traveling carnival came to town, and Bradbury met a magician named Mr. Electrico, who talked to him about reincarnation and immortality, and those ideas excited Bradbury so much that he withdrew from his friends and devoted himself to his imagination. He said, "I don't know if I believe in previous lives, I'm not sure I can live forever. But that young boy believed in both, and I have let him have his [way]. He has written all my stories and books for me."

One night, Bradbury was out for a walk when a policeman pulled up on the side of the road to ask what he was doing. He said, "I was so irritated the police would bother to ask me what I was doing — when I wasn't doing anything — that I went home and wrote [a] story." That story became a novella called "The Fireman" and eventually grew into his first and best-known novel, Fahrenheit 451 (1953), about a man named Guy Montag who lives in a future world in which books are outlawed and burned wherever they're found. Montag is one of the firemen whose job it is to burn the books. One night he takes a book home that he was supposed to destroy and reads it. The act of reading persuades him to join an underground revolutionary group that is keeping literature alive.

Ray Bradbury said, "I don't try to describe the future. I try to prevent it."

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Shameless plug: Covenant is now available from Aisling Press

2007-08-22T07:47:01Z

More detail is at
http://people.tribe.net/0563a508-c05e-4e85-9680-ba4966fb1d2c/blog/a7bc6c85-e87a-4219-8d10-a42e1c08215d

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My Pi-Con Schedule

2007-08-07T19:45:01Z

Tell me we met on Tribe if you come.

www.pi-con.org

Pi-Con Schedule
music: Lonely - Anita Baker
Friday:
5pm
GoH Interview:
Wherein I interview C.E. Murphy

6pm
How to Write Pages 1-5
Kabongo(M), DeCandido, Osborne

Saturday
10am
Shamanistic Druids
Kane, Kabongo, Murphy, Mach
11am
Myth and Folklore in Fantasy
Laity, Harvey(M), Kabongo
3pm
Flirting
Harvey, Kabongo, Ferrett, Mach, Snyder
4pm
Pitch 10 minutes to an Agent
Kabongo
5pm
Cliches That Need Banning
Kabongo, Green, K. Williams, Mach, Silva
7pm
Urban Fantasy
Harvey, Kabongo, Murphy

8pm, run to the nearest place that serves good dead animal and order without speaking

Sunday
11am
Critiquing that Counts
Kabongo, Mach
Noon
Coming Full Circle
Kabongo, Murphy

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happy birthday aldous huxley

2007-07-26T12:04:43Z

It's the birthday of writer Aldous Huxley, born in Surrey, England (1894). Huxley wanted to be a scientist like his grandfather, Thomas Henry Huxley. But when he was 17 years old, he came down with a disease of the eyes, which rendered him almost blind. So Huxley decided to become a writer. His first successful novel was Point Counter Point (1928), which was an extremely ambitious book, with numerous characters and a complex interweaving structure. So Huxley decided that his next book would be something light. He had been reading some H.G. Wells and thought it would be interesting to try to write something about what the future might be like. But once he got started, he got caught up in the excitement of his own ideas. He wound up writing a much more serious book than he'd intended.

The result was Brave New World (1932), about a future in which most human beings are born in test-tube factories, genetically engineered to belong in one of five castes: Alphas, Betas, Gammas, Deltas, and Epsilons. There are no families; people have sex all the time and never fall in love, and they keep themselves happy by taking a drug called "soma."

Brave New World was one of the first novels to predict the future existence of genetic engineering, test-tube babies, anti-depression medication, and virtual reality. When George Orwell's 1984 came out a few years later, many critics compared the two novels, trying to decide which one was more likely to come true. Huxley argued that his imagined future was more likely, because it would be easier to control people by keeping them happy than it would be by threatening them with violence.

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Just had a poem accepted to Asimov's

2007-07-25T14:02:43Z

I got the good news via email yesterday. Asimov's has a poetry backlog, so it may be some time before the piece appears. But it will be my second poem in there, following my first one back in 1983 ("Wings," mid-Dec., reprinted in the anthology Burning With A Vision (Robert Frazier, Ed., Owlswick Press, 1984) & the 1984 Rhysling Anthology (Science Fiction Poetry Association), which contains nominees for the best sf/f poetry of the year). Asimov's also published two stories of mine, one in '84 ("Lazuli," Nov., which got me on the final ballot for the John W. Campbell Award) and one in '86 ("The S.O.B. Show," Dec., a spoof of the planetarium field, in which I did volunteer work for 5 years. The title, in which S.O.B. stands for Star of Bethlehem, is trade slang for the Christmas show).

It's good to be back! :D

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Science Fiction Poetry Association Contest: Sonnets

2007-07-14T14:42:56Z

The Science Fiction Poetry Association's second annual poetry contest is open to submissions July 7 - August 24. This year's focus is the sonnet -- on a speculative topic of your choice (e.g., science fiction, fantasy, horror, science, astronomy, or surrealism, etc.). Sonnets include those in the Italian/Petrarchan, Shakespearean, and Spenserian forms. There is no fee to enter, and one can submit up to three sonnets.

1st Prize: $80, SFPA web site publication, and a year's membership (or extension) to the SFPA , and a copy of Aberrant Dreams I, The Awakening, and a set of MYTHIC anthologies, (MYTHIC and MYTHIC 2) signed.

2nd Prize: $40, SFPA web site publication, and a year's subscription to Tales of the Talisman, and a copy of Aberrant Dreams I, The Awakening.

3rd Prize: $20, SFPA web site publication, and a year's subscription to Dreams and Nightmares, and a copy of Aberrant Dreams I, The Awakening.

You can find more info about the contest at
http://www.sfpoetry.com/2007poetrycontest.html

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happy b-day dean koontz

2007-07-09T14:02:06Z

It's the birthday of author Dean Koontz, born in Everett, Pennsylvania (1945). He's the author of more than 70 supernatural and science fiction thrillers, including The Bad Place and Mr. Murder. The turning point in his career was in 1969, when his wife told him that, if he wanted to try to be a writer, he could quit his job and she would support him for five years. He published 18 novels in those first five years, and his career was on its way.

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A new story

2007-07-09T13:21:47Z

Water and Air
Patrick Spatz

"Another race of dry land dwellers," said Tyiieye, "that sounds very interesting."
Cairun thought his friend was about as much interested in his first contact project as one of the sand drifts passing by the front porch. Only years of friendship were keeping Tyiieye from drifting off to his nearby work bench and back to his own pet project, water flavoring. As it was, the room was already nearly overpowering with its assortment of odd colors and flavors.
Tyiieye pushed a blue ink bubble out of his second mouth then broke it with one of his eight tentacles and watched the patterns it made as it slowly dispersed in the water.
"Wouldn't the Great Wings be more fitting to make first contact? After all, when they're not flying in the air they live on dry land."
"Tools." answered Cairun. He was rewarded by seeing Tyiieye slide just a little further out of his shell as his eyes become more fixed on Cairun. New tools of almost any kind always got Tyiieye's attention. He seated his own body back a little further in the first chamber of his shell relaxing a bit more. "They rely on them even more than we do, and they have lots of them."
"How do you know this?" asked Tyiieye.
"The First Speakers tried to make contact once before."
Cairun rubbed one tentacle along the outside of his shell, his worried mode returning somewhat as he thought about this next part, "They said it didn't work out very well."
Tyiieye pulled part way back into his own shell, only in a tense posture unlike Cairun's relaxed one. "If the First Speakers couldn't reach them, what possibility would we have?"
"We've reached the First Speakers already and asked just that question. They believe, since we are wholesale tool users like this new race, we would be best to reach them. Of course no one knows alien tool use like you Tyiieye."
Tyiieye pulled himself up straight, "Well, if the First Speakers think we should, and you believe I can be of help, it is my place to serve."
##
Doctor Barbara Johnson was a rarity, a teacher who didn't like classrooms. Give her a Psychology lab, or better yet a field trip, even a one on one with a student, and she was happy as a clam in it's shell. She had long ago come to accept that many of her days would be spent like this one, in the classroom. Her six foot one frame never seemed to fit well into a professor's desk or chair. Her bright red hair and too freckled face gave anything but a scholarly impression to her students on the first day of class. Fortunately, team teaching meant she could camp out in the back of the class while her partner handled the first day introduction. Unlike Barbara, Doctor James Hallaway loved the front of the class and looked like it. Short, dark haired, with olive colored skin he was a handsome man. Around campus the two of them had become known as the Odd Couple of Doctors.
Stepping up to the white-board James wrote "Psychology lab 402A." Waited for students to check their lab sheets and dove in. "The first thing some of you may have noticed is that there are nine females, and nine males in this room. So first, no! This is not a dating service." There was a ripple of laughter through the room.
Barbara shook her head. It was an old joke, but it always seem to work. She made a note on her paper, "Find new jokes for James." Then she brought her eyes back to the front of the class.
"However,"James continued "for the next six weeks you are going to learn more about each other than any dating service would ever provide. You are going to live together, study together, play together, and yes sleep together. That's sleep together as at the same time, not as in the same bed." That got another round of quiet laughter.
"Barbara," James pointed to her with one hand, "That's Doctor Johnson, and I have picked you very carefully. You all need the same psychology credits, and you all need to earn some money this summer quarter, and last of all you all have experience in recording your dreams."
James spoke as he wrote on the white-board, "Because," and he underlined the words he'd written "Dream to dream communication. Is what this project is all about.”
##
"Almost half land and half water." Tyiieye read the writing off the seaweed held in front of him. "Well no, a bit more water than land, still it seems like a very unlikely balance to form naturally."
"Not really," answered Cairun. He was only half listening to his friend. Most of his attention was on a last check of everything, and everyone in the room. Five other adepts of differing ages and shell races were gathered to attempt this first contact. The room had smooth walls carefully constructed to help boost mental power. Mud filled the chamber floor giving everyone a soft place to sit. Each adept was spaced evenly around the room. All was almost ready. "True all the other worlds we know of are either water rich, or water poor. But it's a large universe. Even the rare must happen a lot."
"What's my part again?" asked Tyiieye.
"I'll try to make contact. If the First Speakers are right, they'll most likely ask about our tools. They live like us, surrounded by tools, so we should be able to show you some of theirs. Try to help me explain things in terms they can understand based on what we can show you."
Tyiieye seem sceptical, but he said. "Ok, I'm ready."
Cairun lead Tyiieye to his place about halfway inside the circle, then stationed himself in the center. Each of the adepts were carrying glow balls. These they now set against the wall. At once, Cairun felt the power levels increase in the room. Dozens of times he'd done this, went reaching out to older wiser races, but this was the first time for a young newly contacted race. He was not surprised when contact proved difficult. He could feel the alien minds trying to find other minds. Cairun focused on one of the stronger ones, but contact slipped away from him.
There was a startled call from the corner of the room, "It's me." cried on of the adepts.
Cairun turned to face the adept, and realized that she and not he had made the contact. This had never happened to him before, but he'd heard of it happening to other leaders, and he'd trained for it. "Hold on," he said. "Think about the new you and the new place you are in." He noticed that the adept was one of the two females on his team. He had felt that the alien mind might also be female. That might be more important to the aliens than to his race. It was said that the Great Wings had been like that in the beginning. "Can you tell me what's happening to you?"
The adepts's voice was filled with awe, and her tentacles moved randomly through the water. "I'm a monster."
##
"I'm a monster," thought Teresa. "A big eyed blue-green sea monster. Oh this is wonderful." The dream haze made the sight of octopus arms growing out of her baby-doll PJs funny rather than frighting. The room was filled with a blue-green light which proved it was all a dream because she always slept with the lights off and the shades pulled. She could clearly hear the ticking of her old fashioned alarm clock. This was the best dream she'd ever had.
"We're not a dream," said a strange female voice. "You and I are together, but very far apart."
This made Teresa laugh. A dream telling her that she was not a dream. As if she could be turned into some kind of octopus, with a nautilus shell no less. As if her dorm room had somehow been magically changed into a beautiful undersea cave. She drew breath to laugh again, only no air came, only water.
Two sets of primeval instincts began to fight with one another. Human instincts knew you couldn't breath water. Water was the source of danger. A different instinct said when there's danger in the water, burrow into the mud and wait. Human instincts knew there was no waiting for breath. Breathing came before all else, only mud turns out to be even harder to than water to breath.
When Teresa woke screaming from her dream, so did six other students.
##
"There have been deaths in the program before." admitted Cairun, "but never on one of my teams."
Tyiieye pushed himself back and forth nervously along the floor of Cairun's cave. "I've felt the urge to dig in and hide when I've been scared of course. Who hasn't? But to try to breath mud. I don't think I could make my gills do that if I tried."
"Mixing species instincts is a very dangerous and difficult thing. We masters spend years learning to control it. It never should have been thrust upon an apprentice. I should have stopped it, broke the contact at once."
"Now, now," said Triieye placing one tentacle on Cairun's shell. "You must not blame yourself. We must move on. I'm sure she'd want us to." Triieye let a long stream of soothing yellow ink into the water. "Now," he said moving back, "what's our next step?"
Cairun pushed himself up higher on his shell and took a deep breath of water. "Tomorrow we're forming a circle to contact the Great Wings. Not only do they breath air, but they have a very strong male-female identity. I think that was part of our problem, our female human wanted a female contact. I don't mind admitting that having an older more experienced race making the next try will take a load off my mind. One death on this project has been one too many."
##
"It's there, it's right there in black and white." said Doctor Hallaway tapping the EKG printout. All traces of Barbara' s early boredom were gone, she was every bit as lost in the project as her partner. They were in Barbara's office, mostly because Barbara never felt comfortable in James's office. She felt any place that clean wasn't for working in, it was to show off for visitors. Her office on the other hand always looked used and usable. Not that either of them had spent much of the last three days in their offices. Setting up the dream lab had been a hands on job, but now they'd hit pay dirt.
"Seven students in all," said James "starting with Teresa Morre, and spreading from room to room like a chain reaction."
"Six women and one man." Barbara mused looking over the data. "Do you suppose that has a significance, or just random chance?"
"Which ever," said James, "it'll show up in future cases and we can deal with it then."
Barbara stopped reading and looked at James, "You think there will be more cases like this one?"
"I dearly hope so. Because if not, we are going to have the Devil's own time convincing anyone on this data alone."
He picked up a hand full of hand written dream descriptions. "There's a lot of different details here. So much so, that it's hard to rule out coincidence where they match. We need a larger data base."
Barbara sat back in her chair, "What about the dream content? Do you suppose that has any significance by it's self?"
"No." James said shaking his head. "The whole team went swimming yesterday. Teresa herself swam over a mile in laps. It's no wonder she's seeing bug-eyed sea monsters in her dreams."
##
Edward Baker didn't usually dream of flying like a bird, but he knew a lot of people did. He had a good idea this wasn't going to be a normal dream. He really hoped some of the other students were sharing it, he had missed out on the last one. Far below him a great ocean stretched out as far as he could see, except for one small island group. They were green and gray gems on a field of blue velvet.
Edward suddenly realized he was not alone in the sky. It wasn't a bird at all beside him, it was a flying dinosaur. Feeling himself over he realized he was a being just like his new company. "I'm a flying teradactyle!" No, that wasn't right he corrected himself. Terodactyles had only one tail, and he had three. Also he thought they'd had scales, not soft fur like what now covered his new body.
"Never where those ancient beasts anywhere near as large brained as I am," said a voice inside Edward's head.
With a start Edward realized that the thought had come from the being flying next to him. "You can talk?" He asked.
"You wouldn't be here if I could not," answered the flying being.
"Ok, I'll go for it. Why am I here?"
"To talk, of course." answered Edward's host. "How else can we learn, and share?"
Edward thought he could hear, or maybe the better word was feel some of the other students. A number of them like Edward were life long science fiction buffs. This was going to be fun. "Ok, lets start with those islands down there.
Are we near a continent now, and if so how far out to sea are we?"
"Those are the tip of a great mountain range that runs from pole to pole. Those islands and a thousands more like them are the only land that comes above the sea covering this world."
This answer surprised Edward, "But if you spend so much of your time in the water or in the air how would you ever evolve the use of tools, let alone fire?"
"Our race uses few tools, and fire not at all. Few races do."
This brought a strong reaction from over half the students. Disbelief was strongest. One even voiced the words, "Far fetched." another, "Oh come on!"
Other students complained they didn't know what they were talking about. This ignited an argument so multi-sided that all concentration was lost in a matter of seconds. Edward awoke thoroughly disgusted with his fellow students.
##
"Tools, they want tools!" Tyiieye waved a different household instrument in each of his eight tentacles. "We've got to be the next one to contact humans. No one can show them as many tools as we can."
"I don't know," said Cairun slowly, remembering the beginning of the project when he had trouble getting Tyiieye interested. Now it seem he needed to slow his old teacher down. "Yes, we can show them tools," he took one of the house glow balls off it's perch, "and light, but not fire. The rest of the team feels the same way. Fire is the biggest prize of all. Humans really feel you need to have control over it to be intelligent."
"Fire," muttered Tyiieye seating himself slowly. "Why fire? From everything I hear about it, it's horrible stuff."
"We're not sure. It may have something to do with showing courage. Races that have to deal with it think it's pretty terrifying. One thing's for sure, the Downless Ones are the only race we know of that has regular interaction with it. We're thinking they might be the next to try."
"The Downless Ones, they're younger than we are. Anyway aren't' they hopelessly afraid of this fire stuff?"
"As I said, showing courage may have a lot to do with this. Like you said, the Downless Ones are the youngest race in our mind link. They're very eager to be helpful."
Cairun blew a nervous bubble of white ink before reaching for a sheet covered in writing and drawings that he'd been working on. "Just in case the Downless Ones don't have any success, I've been working on a plan that might show we have tools, as well as overcome the water to air problem. I'd like you to look at these plans."
##
"The whole team! We got the whole team!" James was like a kid with is first blue ribbon at the science fair. His gaze darted back and forth along Barbara's desk. Looking first at the EKG strips, then to the written reports and back again. "I'd hoped we'd get more this time, but the whole team, wow!"
Barbara sat slowly stirring her coffee, "More than just the whole team." James looked at her with a puzzled expression. She went on, "I was taking a nap myself during the first shift. I saw the whole thing."
"You too? Oh this is great! Can you write it down? I should have gotten you to do it before you read the others. Then again maybe having one done afterwards isn't such a bad idea. I hope I don't get the dreams, or we'll have no control subjects left at all."
Barbara wished she could share James's unreserved enthusiasm, but a problem was bothering her, and bothering her a lot. "James, have you given any thought to the content of these dreams?"
"What?" James looked up from his reading.
"I said; have you given any thought to the dreams' content?"
"Well, no, not much anyway," answered James. "I suppose we could do a survey. This sounds like something out of a science fiction book somewhere, maybe they've all read the same one."
Barbara shook her head. "I've already checked. Only about half are SF readers, and James, I've read Science fiction since the first grade. I've never read, or dreamed anything like this before."
"Barbara," James's voice was slow and cautious, "where are you leading to with this?"
Barbara looked into her coffee stirring it slowly. "It wasn't like any other dream I've ever had, and a lot of the students said the same thing. James, what if it wasn't just the students and I?" Barbara didn't want to be the first to use the word alien. "I don't know, what if there was something else?"
James reached over and took Barbara's coffee away to get her whole attention. "Barbara, we are on the verge of being the first to prove that dreams can be linked between one sleeper and other. Now, if we can demonstrate that link, we can get published in one of the very few more open-minded credible scientific journals. We'll have to have a lot of proof and it'll be a fight, but it can be done. Aliens trying to use our dreams to contact us and say 'Hi there Earthlings.' That'll get published in the National Enquirer, and you might as well apply for job there, because it will be the only place that will have us until Hell freezes over."
James didn't often use profanity; when he did it meant he felt very strongly about something. What was worse Barbara realized that he was right, dead right. "Can't we even talk about it between ourselves?"
"Sure," James smiling with relief, and let Barbara reclaim her coffee. "But next time, warn me first, so I can check all the doors and windows."
##
Speakerleg push one eye-stock above the river water looked around quickly and then retreated down the canyon wall a few meters. This late in the dry season the plant life was parched and dying, and the sun beat down a the slow moving water. Speakerleg found a patch of river weed under which to hide from the sun and wait. Holding on with four legs and one claw he rubbed his two smaller claws against his second large claw. The sound calmed him as he waited for the word for the attempt to reach Earth to begin. Those-That-Spoke-First had already taught the brotherhood much about the planet Earth and it's people.
Speakerleg's people were the newest members of the brothers of minds-across-stars, and he was one of the junior members of his peoples leadership. Yet because of fire, it would all come down to him and his personal courage. When the time came others from three planets would be there in mind link to help him, "So," he said aloud. "Nothing can go wrong." Speakerleg one of it's younger leaders. He wanted badly to succeed. He decided to spend the time reviewing what he could tell Earth about his own planet if contact was made.
This planet would seem the most alien to Earth. Here it is not the abundance of water, but the lack of it that is the main difference. In fact it lacked much of the atmosphere that Earth has. Its' main continents are dead things, Its' highest mountains rise almost into space. There are no great oceans, but there had once been. At the bottom of the dry abysmal plains the atmospheres' pressure reached half that of Earth at sea-level. Where the deep ocean trenches had been, there are still remnants of a salty sea.
There are rivers. Great rivers far surpassing Earths' Amazon in both age and size. Starting in among the ice that covers much of the continents, they soon fall over the continental shelf in spectacular falls of which earth has no like. The rivers then cut deep steep canyons on their way to the small Sea, which they also enter in drop-offs.
For the most part the rivers' centers are deep and fast moving. But along the edge the water is slower moving and filled with life. The life climbs up the canyon walls, both above and below the water line. Rain falls back down to the river below, after being fed by clouds that form between the canyon's walls. Almost everything is adapted to a world that runs horizontally rather than vertically. Speakerleg's own people were no exception to this rule.
The word came, it was time to start. Speakerleg poked his eye stalks above the surface of the calm water, and looked around thoroughly before allowing his shelled body to follow. His eyes returned into the water to check again that his retreat was clear down the wall to the roots of the weeds below. Speakerleg move a bit higher up the sheer canyon wall to get a better view of what was coming.
Farther upstream and high on the canyon wall lighting had sent sparks and hot stones falling. The sparks had fallen into the growth that held to the canyon wall well above the water line. It was dry and readily caught fire. Those that lived nearby had sent word. Speakerleg had been picked because he was both nearest and bravest. It would be his job to show the rest, that his race might be young, but they could do their part to aid the older minds.
Speakerleg could feel the first of the winds that the fire made as it sped along the cliff wall. The heat and the wind were frightening. Everywhere along the canyon walls small animals fled for safety. In the distance the fire could be seen as a yellow wall. The smoke filled the canyon behind it. Speakerleg waited; he had never been this close to a wild-fire before, but other of his people had dared come much closer to the red and yellow death. He knew just how long he could stay and still make it to safety below the surface. This would show that his people understood fire. They knew it was no demon that would chase them with a mind of its own. It was like the water, air, and stone, only, well... more so.
He could feel the minds of his clan join together, calling to him, "Yes now is the time!" he sent to them. Together they reached across space to their Friends-Of-The-Shallow-Sea. Cairun and his group, joined Speakerleg and his people, as one they reached out to the sleeping humans.
Within seconds Speakerleg vision was over laid with the sights of humans in there beds on the far away Earth. Some were link and they appeared with their eyes open watching him. Speakerleg held out a small hook and rope used to clime over some of the more difficult parts of the cannon wall, "Behold, we have tools." Some mines recognized the tool at once, others just seemed to think of it as, a tool.
Speakerleg shuttered once to help control his body, then when to the next step. "More important, behold," He brought his eyes full to focus on the fire wall closing rapidly on his position. "We know and understand fire!"
Speakerleg knew that he was fighting a fear implanted in his body long before the first of his people learned speech. What he hadn't count on was that it was even older and stronger in humans. The fear and panic that hit him was like a blow. It knocked him off the wall. Fortunately he was only a few feet above the water, even so his legs were running even as he fell through the air. All intelligent thought was gone all he could think of was get far far away from the fire.
Far away many of human dreamers woke up screaming, and convinced that what they been through was not entirely a product of their imagination. Doctor Barbara Johnson was one of them.
##
Three PHDs in the same room at the same time was not all that unusual in a college, but at the offices of SETI it was. At Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence, Doctor Balmorr was usually the only instructor in a room full of under-grads. He really wished it marked a more pleasant occasion. What he had to tell Doctors Hallaway and Johnson was not easy.
Balmorr put down the reports Hallaway and Johnson had brought him to read. Then he opened a door in the lower corner of the desk he was sitting at. "These," He said putting a stack of folders down on the desk. "are most of the reports that unpaid observers have brought into us so far this year. Since the Air Force gave up on Project Blue Book, we've ended up getting most of the UFO sightings, and so forth. I am not allowed to let these out of this office, except to take them to a warehouse, to which only I have the key. The only reason our director does not order them destroyed altogether is that we're a government contractor and that would be against regulations."
Balmorr opened one of the folders on his desk and flipped through it slowly. There was a longing in his voice when he continued. "There is nothing in these files that would be the least bit damaging for the public to see. What would be hurt is our budget. God knows it's not much, but it's all we've got. I'm speaking from experience here. We once had a director who had assigned some students to reading through these files. They were looking for any pattern that might tell us anything we should know that maybe our electronics were missing."
Balmorr stopped at one page and smiled to himself. "Some of the students had a good laugh at one or two of the reports here. As I said before, we get them all. Some of these stories got all over the campus, and even into one of the local newspapers. At our next budget hearing a congressman wanted to know how we could spend government money investigating a woman who said her cat was having sex with aliens dressed like rats."
"Funny, right?" There was a hard note in Balmorr voice now, as he looked straight at Hallaway and Johnson. "Our budget was reduced 25% that year and we got a new director. Now maybe that would have happened anyhow, but our new director isn't taking any chances. Anything that isn't computerized and untouched by human hands goes into this file, and is never seen again."
The moment of anger passed and Balmorr looked again at the papers in his hand. "There are in fact a lot of nuts in these files. Yet I would have liked to see some of them looked into. When you called and said you wanted to see me. I was hoping that you might be able to use them. If you did though, I would have to ask you not to say where you came by them! "
The silence in the room lasted an uncomfortably long time.
##
The cave in which Cairun was building his great machine was a madhouse of workers and machines. Two large balloons full of air were being filled by pipe from the surface and large seaweed baskets were being woven by workers on a large table. Cairun had spread out a diagram of the project on a smaller table near by. He tried to wait patiently while Tyiieye read the latest revision.
"Surely you don't plan to include fire?" Tyiieye couldn't believe what he was seeing on the drawings. "Not after what happen to the Downless Ones."
"The trick seems to be able to keep it small. Air trippers have claimed to see it on the top of seaweed. We believe the thing to do is get it really dry. Even if that part doesn't work thought everything else should." Cairun pointed to part of the drawings. "Air trippers have been using air-bag riding for a sport for years. I take most of this from them. They usually just hold onto the bag until they reach the top, take a quick look around, then drop using a jellyfish skin to slow themselves down.
For a few seconds, Cairun push drawing around, "Ok here's what we're going do to. Where going to make much bigger balloons. I'll ride on top of one, then you and the acolytes will be in a baskets underneath.
"You want me to go up there?" Tyiieye looked hard at Cairuns' drawing to decide if this were a joke.
"It's perfectly safe. You'll be under the surface at all times, and you'll have these jellyfish skins. People midwater jump all the times these days. I've tried it, it's really fun!"
"Son, your idea of fun, and my idea..."
Just them there were shouts of alarm from the far side of the cave. One of the balloons had slipped it's rope and tipped upward. The air came gulping out, rose to roof and stopped. Works from all over the cave ran to catch the ropes. Despite being one of the farthest away, Cairun was one of the first there.
By the time Tyiieye reached his friend, the balloon had been pulled right side down again. "Looks like you lost about half your air," he said. "Will that slow you up much?" he asked trying not to sound too hopeful.
"Oh, replacing the air won't take that long," answered Cairun. "The real problem will be trying to get it off the roof." He said pointing to the pocket of air above them.
Tyiieye stared upward. It looked as if the surface of the sea and been brought down to them. The idea got him thinking. "Could we do something like that to fill one of the smaller cave completely with air?"
"I suppose so," answered Cairun, "But why?"
"Well it seems to me that bringing a small piece of the surface to you in this case would be a lot faster, and safer than trying to go to it."
Cairun stared at the trapped air, then back down to his drawing, and at last around the busy room. "But, we, I mean, we couldn't just..."
Tyiieye reach out and took the plans out of Cairun's tentacles. "Lets just try it the easy way first. If it works, I'm sure someone will want to build this air-wagon thing." Tyiieye did not add, 'Unfortunately'.
##
Barbara made ready for bed slowly. It had been a depressing day. After their trip to SETI, James had all but begged her to drop the whole thing. She had promised to do nothing for at least six months, giving him time to publish, and their research on dreams to hopefully stand on its' own. She was not sure though that she would not end up giving him a lot longer. It would take a lot of courage to stand up to the kind of ridicule that her ideas would bring. Worse than the ridicule was the fear that she just might be dismissed altogether, as just an other nut. Dismissed not only in this idea, but in anything she might ever do again. She was not sure she had that kind of courage; she was not even sure she wanted that kind of courage.
Barbara pulled back the cover of her newly made bed and paused for a moment. The sheets showed an eerie blue in the light from the fish tank. They looked as if they were underwater too. "Sleep," She whispered. "even that is not an escape any more, is it Doctor Johnson?" Then she lay down and tried hard to think of more pleasant things.
Barbara dreamed that she was he. Or was it he dreaming that he was she? Barbara laughed in her sleep, and an image of a butterfly danced across her/their dream. This caused Tyiieye some confusion and for a moment contact was lost.
When contact came again, Barbara reached out for it, and it became clear almost at once. She/they were in a small cave, the top part of which was filled with air/gas. She felt as if she was standing on a ledge just over a pool of glowing water, which filled most of the rest of the room. It took her time to realize that it was not the water, but the things in it that were glowing.
They were stranger even than the picture that one of the girls had tried to draw. They looked like octopi with larger chambered shells and insect-like eyes. Each carried a ball of white light. There were maybe a half dozen such beings in the large pool beneath her. Barbara refused to panic. She knew that she was not in a room of true "air", but she would not let that get to her like Teresa did. If necessary, she would breath water. Besides, her real body was safe back in her bedroom.
"So what do we do now?" She asked. "Talk, or make hand signals, or tap in Morse code?"
"Yes." Came the reply inside her head, which the teacher side of her noted wasn't quite fitting to the question.
Stopping to think Barbara realized the voice she had heard had been her own. "You're totally telepathic then, you can read each others thoughts, not just send words back and forth."
"Yes." Came the slow repose again. They were not quite sure Barbara realized, if her idea of telepathic and their's were the same thing; also the concept of being totally telepathic bothered them. It was not quite right.
Barbara had thousands of questions to ask. But one was more important than all the others. "What is it you need from me?"
"You will tell Earth we are here. You will tell them, how do you say it, `Hi?' Then they can help you find more like yourself, and we can grow together."
"They'll put me in a padded cell, that's what they'll do!" Desperately Barbara tried to think of a way out of her growing fear. "Is there anything you can do, or tell me that will prove that you exist?"
"How does one prove one exists?" was the reply. "No."
Barbara fought for control of the rapidly deteriorating situation. "I will not go back to freshman philosophy. There has got to be something I can give people to save my credibility."
"You can give away these images." Said the voice inside her head. "Surely that will be proof we are!"
It was too much. These poor beings had no idea of what they were asking. They had no idea how useless such an act on her part would be even if she could pull it off, how destructive it would be to her just to try.
"No, I can't. I was willing to try when you only might have been trying to reach us. But now that I know you've reached me I can't." Even to her that sounded wrong. But it wasn't. "I mean, if I tried to tell people that it was just possible that maybe there was something to a group of test subject's dreams, that just maybe had something to do with extra terrestrial intelligence. A few just might believe enough to look into it. But if I tell them I've been contacted, and personally asked to say Hi, to Earth for them, no one at all will believe me! Hell, I don't even believe it myself!"
Barbara sat down on a rock hard. She should have been surprised that it hurt a little to do so, but in her worst nightmares she could feel pain, as well as see and hear, and this was worse than her worst nightmare come true. She felt not only as if she was betraying these beings before her, but also all of the human race. And this made her afraid, afraid that despite of the uselessness of it, despite the hurt it would do her, she still might try. It was a fear every bit as real as any physical threat. And the others felt it too. They were not going to make the same mistake they had made on their first attempt at contact.
In the next instant she awoke in her darkened bedroom, listening to her fish tank bubble softly in its pale blue light. For the first time since Barbara was a broken-hearted freshman in love, she turned her head into her pillow and wept uncontrollably at the injustice of the universe.
Tyiieye and the others recovered slowly from the contact. It was like nothing they had experienced before. The contact itself had been strong, but the images and fears at the end made no sense at all. The older, more experienced race of the First Speaker would surely help them out now. Somehow, someone had to explain to him what was the meaning of all of that fear. Somebody had to know! Didn't they?
##
Speaker One was not surprised to feel the presence of his counter-part and friend. He had known that the members of the Great Wing had been listening. He broadcast his agreement to meet with his friend, their leader.
A moment later the image of the winged leader was there beside him. "Earth," he said. "Your forefathers had a very similar problem to the one we have today. It was Us."
There came the watery equivalent to laughter. Speaker One sent images and emotions of the past and present becoming one because they were so akin to each other. His message was also filled with doubt.
"Use words my old friend." Said the mind of the Wing Leader. "There will be other races that will someday want to know what was said here. I think they will be unhappy if we can not tell them in words."
"Yes, a similar problem," Replied Speaker One. "and now you think it is time that we came up with a similar solution?"
"We do!" Was the reply. "I have taken the voice of all the wings on this, and by far most feel it must be done. If I know you old friend, you have already heard the sounding of your people. I can tell by the flavor of your voice that they too agree. Is it that you have some doubts?"
The great creator turned on one side so as to see the image of his winged friend better. "Have we given any thought as to what this will do to the humans?"
"Yes. At least many of my people talked about it at length. I think we can count on it to upset them, as it did us those hundreds of years ago. Still my people would not go back. We have seen too much. We have grown, and we are glad we have grown. Earth too will thank you. Oh, maybe it will be at some later time. Not at first to be sure, especially not its leaders. But one can not be beautiful to all who look upon you."
Speaker One sighed. "You are right of course. The tides of change comes upon all, whether or not they are ready for it." The First Speaker made up his mind. "Gather those who know the art, let the flight and song begin. Today poor Earth will feel the slap of a mighty wave of change."
##
Not all the beings living on the two planets joined in the mind work. There were some few that thought it wrong, so would have nothing do to with it. There were the young that had not yet learned the way of power dreaming. However, most danced, or flew, or sang in a meditation of unison. When the dream was formed they sent it across space in less time than it would take to express it.
The dream found the American continents in darkness. All who slept there, or on the day side of the world received the dream. Almost half of those that were awake saw it too, mostly as an image superimposed across their earthly reality. Only the shortness of the dream kept it from causing any major accidents. As it was, several minor ones were attributed to it later.
To almost all, the dream brought the same picture. A whale-like being with four eyes, two on each side, swimming beside a flying being that looked like a pterodactyl with bat ears. They swam out of the sunrise to hover over a sign that welcomed visitors at the main entrance of the university. Two humans stood next to the sign, dressed only in their night clothes. Doctor Hallaway stood stunned beyond response. Doctor Johnson was nearly in tears with joy and awe. Then the dream left as quickly as it came.
As the dream faded Speaker One turned to the image of his friend and smiled "There, that ought to do it!"

THE END

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 3 replies

happy 100th b-day robert heinlein

2007-07-08T14:13:33Z

It's the 100th birthday of one of the writers who helped invent modern science fiction: Robert Heinlein, born in Butler, Missouri (1907). He wrote more than 50 novels and collections of short stories over a span of four decades.

He said of his childhood, "Once I found out about reading I was all in favor of it." He especially loved dime novels and the work of Edgar Rice Burroughs, H.G. Wells, and Jules Verne. But he didn't plan to become a writer. What he wanted was to be an officer in the Navy. But after serving for five years, he got discharged because he'd caught tuberculosis. The disease left him weak enough that he had a hard time working a job.

He wasn't sure what to do to make ends meet, and then he saw an ad in a pulp fiction magazine offering $50 for the best story by an unpublished author. So he sat down and in four days he had written a story called "Life-Line," about a machine that can predict a person's death. He decided it was too good for an amateur contest, so he sent it to Astounding Science Fiction magazine, and they accepted it. It came out in 1939, and Heinlein would publish 28 more stories in then next three years.

At the time, most science fiction stories were full of gimmicks and imaginary machines that had no relationship to actual science. Heinlein was one of the first science fiction authors to look at the world the way it was and try to imagine how it might actually look in the future. And he tried to make sure that all the imaginary technology in his stories could really work. He wrote about things like atomic bombs, cloning, and gay marriage years before they became realities. And he was one of the first writers to imagine how space travel could actually be accomplished.

He's best known for his novel Stranger in a Strange Land (1961), about a boy who is born during the first manned mission to Mars, who is raised by Martians, and who then returns to Earth to become a preacher. Stranger in a Strange Land was also the first book to describe a waterbed.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Just got an acceptance...

2007-06-30T01:19:11Z

My short story "Hermit Crabs" has just been accepted over at Electric Velocipede "for publication in a future issue."
Wrote editor John Klima in his e-mail, "I'm blown away."
Grinnn.

I don't know yet when publication will actually occur, but I'll pipe up when it does. I learned about EV through Lisa Mantchev, who has an excellent story forthcoming there. (I was lucky enough to read her draft.)

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 5 replies

Here is my storie Choices of the Soul

2007-06-25T19:49:11Z

So here is one of my stories, what does anyone think?

Choices of the Soul
By Patrick J Spatz
Wearing a gravity shirt made Hadtec look like a dolphin covered in oil, at least, so he had been told. He had seen pictures of dolphin's caught in oil-slicks from pre-space flight days. They'd always looked very unhappy and weighted down, but a Gravity Shirts made him feel wonderful. He was free to move easily in the human sector of the space station. He was glad he was a gene enhanced dolphin, not one of those ignorant wild things. They had no human or alien friends. While luckily Hadtec had both.
The space station's bar and coffee shop was about half full. As always there were hundreds of things for Hadtec to hear, taste, and see. However today he was on a personal mission. He was going to find his friend Carter Raymees and share his happiness for him.
It was always hard for Hadtec to find one human in a group of humans. Particularly Carter, he looked so normal even for a human. Medium build and height with dark skin and light hair, but oh what a nice voice. If he would only say something Hadtec could pick him out of any group.
Hadtec hung in the doorway oblivious to the people squeezing by him. He tilted his body back and forth, letting out sound whistles and trying to focus on faces. Quite a number of faces turned his way but none of them were Carter.
At last he saw his friend. Carter Raymees hadn't even noticed Hadtec come into the Port View Bar. He was too busy trying to find the answer to his troubles hidden somewhere under the creamy clouds inside his coffee cup.
Since Carter sat alone at a table big enough for a dozen humans, Hadtec decided to just fly over and greet him. He adjusted his gravity shirt so he had relative mass of about one kilo and let himself settle to the floor. One sharp push of his powerful tail got him air borne again. Hadtec was an excellent flyer. He easily missed colliding with the bar's other customers. Using his flippers as air brakes he came in silently about four inches over Carter's cup.
"Sweet Jesus!" shouted Carter spilling some of his coffee.
Hadtec landed on the table top then slipped to one side and came to rest with his tail holding him against the back of a chair. "I heard you're getting married!"
"Yes... I mean no. I mean, -oh Hell I don't know. You scared me, Hadtec."
For a time the two friends sat in awkward silence. Hadtec cocked his head to one side and watched the gas giant Parsius, thought the Cafe's main widow. As usual Parsius was in the grips of a night-time electrical storm. Hadtec thought it a most beautiful view, when ever he could get his eyes to focus on it. Reluctantly, he gave up, returning his attention to Carter.
Carter was staring mournfully into his coffee cup. Hadtec thought about his friend's last comment, "'Yes', I can understand," he said, "'No', also seems to make sense, sort of. But, how can you not know if you're getting married?"
"Easy," groaned Carter. "You just have to have the strangest luck in the known universe!"
Hadtec let a little more of his true mass bleed through the gravity shirt, setting himself more firmly on the table as he pondered this answer. It didn't seem to make much sense to him. Hadtec tasted the air near Carter's coffee, no there was nothing in the coffee but cream and sugar so that wasn't it. He did however taste the presence of a human-cat gene cut somewhere very nearby.
Hadtec focused his eyes on the seven foot fur covered humanoid figure slipping up quietly behind Carter's chair. He wondered if maybe he should say something, but it was too late. With one move the half-human swept her arms around Carter in a great furry hug. "Congratulations lover boy, you managed to get yourself caught at last!"
"Jesus, Karecat!" Carter said while trying to get his breath back. "Why am I worried about my future? My friends are going to give me a heart attack before I see another birthday!"
Karecat's answer was a half laugh, half roar as she sat Carter back in his chair. "I have to get my hugs and gropes in now before two wives stamp the 'Stay Off' sign on you."
"Janit and Marseena would never get jealous of you, Karecat," Hadtec chirped in, "Besides, Carter's not sure he's getting married."
Karecat was in the process of sitting next to Carter when Hadtec made this announcement. She stopped, turned, took Carter by both shoulders and looked him in the eyes. "How can this be? Janit was just now in Vid-Ops telling everyone you said yes!"
"I did!" moaned Carter, letting his gaze fall back to his coffee.
Karecat let go of Carter and turned slowly to look out the port, "I don't know, Janit is all human like you are, and full humans do funny things. Jilt her and maybe she'll just go off and die of a broken heart, or write epic novels about what a heel you are. That's the kinds of things humans do. But Marseena now, she's got cat blood like me. She's apt to take out her claws and redesign your face. You just don't look that dumb to me."
"Marseena got her gene cuts from a snow leopard," said Carter. "Where did you get yours?" He looked at her cat eyes and then the small mane around her face. "African lion?"
"Lion, Gorilla, even some Human giant, there were some human types considered endangered species once you know. My grandparents were poor. The more endangered genes they stored in their children the higher government subsidy they received. You would not believe my family reunions!"
"I know Janit and Marseena." Hadtec turned enough on the table to eye both Carter and Karecat. "I don't think they would do anything like what Karecat said." He turned again so that he was fully facing Karecat and asked accusingly, "I thought you were their friend?"
"She's being sarcastic, Hadtec." Carter answered for Karecat who was busy giving Hadtec a tooth filled grin.
Hadtec whistled something in his native tongue that he'd never been able to find a translation for. Then just to make his point he gave Karecat a dolphin raspberry.
Turning back to Carter he said, "When I was growing up all the humans I worked with were so careful not to confuse us with slang or sarcasm. Now I wish they hadn't been. Maybe I could be more help with this problem of yours. If you have a good reason for changing your mind I'm sure Janit and Marseena will understand."
"Don't bet on it, Whistles." Karecat said, turning back to Carter "The fin has a point there handsome, you tell Janit and the Mark family, 'yes I will'; then get cold feet less than an hour later. If you have a good reason, I for one would love to hear it."
Carter let out a deep sigh. Hadtec had often seen humans do this before starting some hard job. He wondered what job Carter was about to start, hoping it would not interfere with him telling the rest of his story.
"Karecat, you remember me when I first came to the station four years ago? Hadtec, this was a little before your time." Hadtec gave a nod and whistle and Karecat just grunted. Carter went on, "I was hell bent to get myself a deep space mission. One of those long things with glory and your place in history in it."
"Just like all the rest of us," said Karecat, "Myself included."
"My grades were good in school," said Carter. "But not that good. I found out you had to be in the top one percent to get one of those assignments right off the bat. So like everybody else here, I dove into the idea of getting the right experience and connections to be in the right place at the right time. I wrote a couple thousand resumes and letters. I went to seminars, receptions, and the right parties."
"And then you fell in love!" Hadtec jumped in, showing his own strong romantic streak.
"No. That came later. I found out that there were things I wanted to do with my life other than deep space. A lot of them right here in this system. This is the most diverse system on the frontier. If I were to stay in one place, a family became possible. Then, as you said, I fell in love."
"Ok. So this brings us up to date," Karecat said. "So where's the Devil in the mix?"
"The Devil in the mix, as you put it," Carter answered, "came by com-mail about ninety minutes ago." He pushed a button on his wrist brain and tapped it against the glass table top. The flat surface took up the image of a formal business letter. "Here read it for yourself."
Hadtec shot up into the air turning his gravity shirt up to its maximum. Then flipped himself nose down with his tail bent to clear the ceiling while his nose was almost on Carter's letter. It was all necessary to do the difficult job of getting dolphin eyes to focus on print. Karecat just rested her elbow on the table with her chin on her fists. There was not that much to read. It was from the deep space ship Darwin. The captain remembered Carter from a resume he had sent twenty-one months before. If he was still interested in an assignment, please report for a interview with Captain Blackwell and his first officer at zero eight hundred tomorrow morning.
Hadtec flipped around again, increasing his weight, to settle back in his resting spot at the end of the table. "Easy," he said. "Just say 'no thanks.'"
The pain on Carter's face told Hadtec that for some reason it wasn't that easy. Karecat saw it too, "There are still a few sparks of wander lust left over aren't there? Did this letter just fanned them into a flame?"
Carter seemed not to want to look at Karecat anymore. Once again, it looked to Hadtec like he was trying to find something deep in his coffee.
Suddenly, for no apparent reason, every bit of conversation in the bar came to a stop. Hadtec looked over at Karecat and saw her staring at the door. "What the Hell!" asked Karecat, "is that!"
Hadtec followed Karecat's gaze, focusing his eyes on the bar entrance. Standing in the entrance was a Coorbaty. Hadtec knew this particular Coorbaty by sight it's name was Tar'c. Standing just under four feet high with skin the same grayish brown as his home-worlds mud, Tar'c had two very large round black eyes. Where a human's nose would be, a boney ridge ran all the way to the top of his bald head connecting with a hollow horn through which were blown the musical notes of his native language. With their home planet in-system, Coorbaty were not really an unusual sight on station. What was unusual was to see one standing between a young naked man, and a six foot cake floating just off the floor. Looking around the bar, Tar'c at last saw the three friends sitting together. His face broke into a large grin, an expression that Coorbaty and humans shared. He grabbed a small control box off his belt and punched some buttons. The male nude began to dance, the candles on the cake lit up, and all three begin moving towards the table. "I bring stripper. I bring cake. Carter, you jump into cake now. We begin congratulation party!" His three friends just stared at him along with the rest of the bar. This brought Tar'c at last to a full stop. "Did I not right get? Miss do some?"
"You want it in chronological or alphabetical order?" muttered Karecat.
Hadtec didn't think Karecat very diplomatic. He knew how hard Tar'c tried to understand his human hosts. A struggle Hadtec could fully relate to. Fortunately, it seemed Carter understood to. He stepped in before the Coorbaty could become even more confused. "First off Tar'c, the stripper usually goes in the cake, not the bachelor. Then later the stripper comes out, and then usually takes HER clothes off. It's usual to have a female stripper at the bachelor party and a male at the bachelorette's party."
Tar'c pushed a button on his control box and both cake and dancer disappeared, confirming Hadtec's suspicion that they were holograms, they just hadn't sounded right. "But now you have two wife-female-lovers, don't you need wife-male-lovers?" asked Tar'c
"They're called husbands." Karecat broke in, "Males are called husbands. He's getting one of those too actually, Donald. Donald and Marseena are already married, so they come as a team. That makes Donald a husband-male. Though I don't know about the lover part." Here she looked questioningly at Carter. "I've never really found a polite way to ask..."
"Good!" Carter shot back. "Anyway Tar'c, it may be a bit early to start this party yet."
"Oh good! Give time me rent really stripper female and get bake into cake." With a happy smile he turned to leave.
"No!" All three friends spoke at once.
Tar'c turned back to look at his friends, puzzlement written all over his face. "I still right not?"
"What I mean to say Tar'c," Carter went on more carefully this time, "is that I'm not sure there should be a party at all. Look, sit down and Hadtec can fill you in. I don't know, maybe you can give a fully alien perspective on this?"
"That can." Tar'c nodded sitting across from Carter. "Do not know good thought. Hard me tell what one sex all time like. Mind change often."
"How often are your sex changes?" asked Hadtec. "About every ten station months, right?”
Tar'c smiled. "Every 9.9613 month maybe." Human time and numbers, unlike human language, was something with which the Coorbatys had no trouble. In fact they liked to use them whenever they could. "Now what trouble?"
Hadtec could fill in Tar'c using his native language. Dolphin language was much closer in pitch and grammar to the Coorbaty's own language than English, and Tar'c did well in it. Carter was trying to learn the language from Hadtec and so wanted to listen, but Karecat wanted to continue working on Carter's problem. "You're a child of a generation marriage yourself, aren't you?"
"Yes," answered Carter. "but even today monogamy is still more common."
"I've heard this said before," Hadtec said breaking off his dialog with Tar'c. "Then I read that monogamy is only 40% of all human families. How can both be true?"
"Well, there are more types of human families than I could possibly name," Carter answered, "but the three big ones, at least sexually, are monogamy, one mate with one mate and no one else, as you said about 40%; group, a small group all about the same age all mated to one an other, I've heard that is about 30%; and generation, two or three couples usually about a generation apart, about 25%."
"5% more make miss 100?" complained Tar'c.
"Oh, that 5% is everything else. There are men with multiple wives and no other men, women with more husbands, and so on," Carter answered, "but to me a family is made up of pairs living with pairs. It's what I grew up with, and it's what I want my kids to grow up with."
This time even Hadtec failed to notice when another friend joined the group. This one was more polite than the rest. He was also older. A musical tone was the Cyborg's equivalent of clearing his throat. It got much the same effect, everyone looked up. "Arther!" Carter exclaimed, "I didn't see you there."
Arther Moteve looked like a middle aged man who was in the process of getting himself bronzed. Much of his body was covered with a skin of dark metal. The pupils of his eyes looked like camera lenses. He smiled at the group, "I can see I'm not the first, but still let me add my own congratulations to the others."
"Good God!" Carter put his head in his hands. "Did someone take an ad out or something?"
"Well, yes actually, I thought you did," answered Arther with a frown. "I saw it in Ping-dot-com, and I think it was in Social-dot-news as well."
"What?!" Carter exclaimed.
"Also Friend-dot-new-dot-all," chimed in Tar'c. "Even go small strip broadcast advertisement change T.V. show all time channel..." He lost his smile as he saw the look of horror on Carter's face. "Miss one?"
"The New York Times." muttered Karecat.
Before Tar'c could become even more confused Arther stepped in. "Tar'c, did you ask Carter or Janit before you wrote these announcements for them?"
"No," said Tar'c.
"Well, remember to do so next time. Sometimes things are not as simple as they seem."
"That's sure the case this time," remarked Hadtec.
"Why's that?" asked Arther looking at Hadtec.
"Say, why don't you get in on this help Carter session?" Karecat asked. "You're the only one in this group already happily married."
"I married." corrected Tar'c.
"You are?" Carter said in disbelief.
"All Coorbatys, that is the continent Tar'c comes from," Arther filled in for the others, "are married on the day they are born. Have you ever actually seen your mate, Tar'c?"
"Pictures!" Tar'c said merrily.
"That's what I thought," said Arther. In Hadtec's own language Arther asked Hadtec to fill him in. But he also began reading Carter's letter and talking all at the same time. Hadtec wished he had a multi-processors set in his brain so that he could do things like that with as much ease.
"I will, of course help," said Arther "but I should warn you if it's a problem with sex I'm really out of practice."
Arther went on talking casually as if he did not see the shock on the other's faces. Hadtec could hear the shock in their breathing, all except maybe Tar'c who understood less that a fourth of what was being said anyway. Hadtec recognized it as happy shock. It had been hard for Hadtec to grasp the idea of different kinds of shock. Good happy shock that made you laugh, good wake up shock that taught you things, and bad shock that stopped you from doing almost everything. Arther was particularly good at getting people to experience happy shock. Hadtec wished he had a talent like that.
Arther went on in his most casual of voices. "Both Memma and I prefer to interlink straight into the sex centers of the brain. We have so little use for the actual body organs, and getting as many upgrades and replacements as we do, well we kind of needed the space." Arther finished the letter and remarked, "This looks more like a career problem, to me."
"Well, career versus family." suggested Karecat,
"Raising a family is a career, believe me," said Arther.
"My life wasn't always as simple as it is now. You should see our place when the grand-kids and great-grand-kids come around."
"But at least that problem wouldn't come up here," put in Hadtec. "Donald and Marseena only have one child, and she is at university on Earth."
"True enough," answered Arther, "but that would mean they are getting close to being able to apply for another license, and unless I am mistaken, both Janit and Carter here are old enough for a child license?" Arther turned the statement into a question.
"We talked about it, a little." answered, Carter Arther held Carter's gaze for a long second. "Ok, maybe more than a little. But we still haven't decided on anything, and we've only just brought it up with Donald and Marseena."
"That tears it!" exclaimed Karecat throwing her arms up. "You've been sitting here telling us how much you want Donald, Marseena, and Janit. Now you say you're planning on having kids." Carter started to deny this, but she cut him off. "Ok, planning on planning having kids. Sounds to me like you know what you want. Go tell the Darwin to take a hike and start working on becoming a Daddy!"
"It's tempting," admitted Carter. "Then I think back over my life. The one thing I've wanted to do since I was six is go into deep space. All of my life I've studied and worked for it."
"Deep Spacers," Arther commented, "are like the old time rock stars or astronauts. All the kids want to be one, and so damn few can."
"There's more to it than that," complained Carter. "Ever since physics hit the so call 'Wall' a few decades back 90% of all new discoveries have been connected directly with deep space missions. We've only found three alien races so far, but we know from the signs there has to be more, most likely hundreds. Why, even this place here was found by deep spacers."
"I hear a good deal of passion there," remarked Arther.
"If I remember right Janit wanted to be a deep spacer too. How do you think she would react to this choice?"
"I don't really know," admitted Carter. "We wouldn't have even met except for trying to win a mission the wrong way. We both knew Donald and Marseena had been deep spacers. I thought a romance with Marseena might open up some doors, she had the same idea with Donald.
"A lot of young people seem to get that idea sooner or later." Added Arther. "Some day, I'm going to have to do a study to see how well it works."
"By the time we found out that they couldn't really help us, we were already involved." There was a catch in Carter's voice as he went on.
"All my life I wanted to be a deep spacer, then I started seeing other people with the same dream that had NOT come true. I began to realize that it could happen to me. I was lost, and there was Janit, just as lost as I was. And there was Marseena and Donald to help us get unlost."
"Now I know that it's not hopeless. Even if the Darwin does not take me on, I know they think I'm good enough. That means sooner or later, some other ship will too. If I don't take this opportunity, I could wind up blaming the people I love the most for costing me what I wanted the most. I could blame them for the rest of my life.
On the other hand I'd have them a round for the rest of my life to blame, or do anything else with."
Hadtec tried to put himself in his friend's place and found it frighting. He had been too young to remember much when his own family had first taken to space. Every port had been an adventure and he felt his life was so much more than it would have been stuck on Earth with all its' restrictions. He also dearly loved his small pod, from the youngest baby to old grand-mom Issasn even with the taste her bladder problems left in the water. He could imagine being forced to pick between the two. He had no idea as how to help his friend make such a decision.
Arther was speaking softly to Carter now, in what Hadtec thought of as his fatherly voice, "You know you are going to have to talk this over with the others before you can decide anything."
"Families, that's it!" Hadtec declared triumphantly, as an idea hit him. "Long-haul ships like families. Just get the rest of your new family to come with you!"
"Oh, that's a great idea." The sarcasm in Carter's voice was thick enough for even Hadtec to pick up. "I don't know which thought is most outrageous: saying to a ship captain, 'Yes, I know I'm the newest of your crew, with no experience and damn lucky to even be thought of much less picked. Still, I have some demands to make before I come on board, like berths and jobs for three more people.' That's almost as funny as the idea of going to the others and saying, 'Gee, now that we're engaged to be married, let me take over your lives for the next...' oh, God knows how many years the Darwin will be gone this time."
"Ten," answered Arther. The other four looked at him. "The Darwin supply officer was in my office today coordinating with the station."
"You God not," protested Tar'c. Tar'c had even more trouble than Hadtec with the human concept of God, but apparently even he was sure that Arther didn't qualify. "So why Carter not say; 'God and Arther know.'"
"Tar'c," Karecat interrupted. "We'll explain later. Carter, just because you've got an interview with the captain, doesn't mean you'll be picked."
"That makes it even worse!" Carter's voice was just short of a wail. "I may lose everything, and gain nothing in return. How can I even go to the interview and not tell the others about it?" His eyes fell back down to his coffee. "Of course, just going to the interview and blowing it might solve everything."
"Would?" Asked Tar'c, "Good!" He looked at the others, "Should say congratulations problem solved now?"
"I wouldn't," said Karecat.
"Neither would I," said Arther.
"So," concluded Tar'c. "I should not congratulate Marseena now she here."
Hadtec turned with the rest and brought is eyes to focus on the club's entrance. Sure enough there was Carter's most-likely-wife-to-be scanning the bar looking for him. She was much more clearly cat decided that Karecat. Marseena's fur was a pattern of gray, going from dark through light, all the way to white. Her eyes, nose, and upper lip also showed the snow leopard blood in her. Her figure was all human female but her long curly hair seemed to infuse the wildness from both her bloodlines. She wore a mid-thigh skirt and a spandex-T top. She found Carter at last and smiling with out showing her fangs. Her walk was almost like a glide as she came over to their table.
"Excuse me," she said when she was close enough to be clearly heard above the rest of the bar. "I need to borrow Carter from you for a few minutes."
"Borrow?" Tar'c voice hinted that he was having trouble with this concept. "Carter say you want 'Kaa{click}uerp'!"
The last comment came out in Tar'c's native tongue, because Hadtec had just nipped his hand and Karecat kicked him under the table.
"Of course, Marseena," Arther, said covering smoothly for the others. "In fact I was just about to have Tar'c help me on a point or two in his native tongue. You know how loud that can get, so we were just about to step over to a sound booth.
Tar'c asked something of Arther in a quick whistle burst and Arther answered back just as quickly. No one else could follow what they had said. Arther stood as he turned to Karecat. "Karecat, where did you say you and Hadtec were going?"
"Ah, we were just going, ah..." Karecat tried not to flounder as she stood up. "That is Hadtec was just going to go over his week's game listing. I'm trying to learn Water-jan you know."
"You want to try again?" Hadtec asked hopefully.
"What do you mean again," snapped Karecat, catching Hadtec by his dorsal fin and leading him away from the table, "we've been at it all week haven't we?" Hadtec started to answer but Karecat seemed bent on getting him across the room as quickly as possible.
Once away from the couple, she didn't asked anything about the Dolphin's favorite sport. Instead she picked up a flyer about an upcoming dart tournament. The second Hadtec drew breath to question, she said "Shush, I'm listening."
Hadtec noticed that Karecat's ears were oriented towards Marseena and Carter. From this, he gathered it was at least semi polite to listen in this case. He easily adjusted his own hearing to zoom in on the two familiar voices.
Marseena was talking to Carter, "You got your letter from Captain Blackwell too." It was a statement not a question.
"How did you know..." started Carter then stopped. "Who else got a letter?"
"Why Janit, of course," answered Marseena. "She came to me in tears because she thought she would have to decide between us and an 'that-last-decent-shot-at-deep-space'. I swear, if I'd known Blackwell was going to do this, I would have drowned him in his expensive imported split pea soup last night!"
"Soup," said Carter his voice sounding very stunned. "That mysterious dinner last night you wouldn't talk to us about was with Captain Blackwell?"
"Yes," said Marseena, "but we didn't commit to anything. We know how much you two both want to get into deep space, and Donald and I have been talking about going back for years. We just wanted to be sure there was something for all four of us before we got your hopes up. Dear, you want to close your mouth, you're looking like a fish someone took out of its bowl."
If Marseena was going to say more it was interrupted by the distinct sound of two humans kissing. A few seconds later Marseena gasped, "Woe, dear this place doesn't go for the kind of entertainment they'll be getting if you keep that up!"
Hadtec slanted his head around and brought his eyes to focus. He saw Carter holding Marseena completely off the ground in a bear hug "We're going to deep space together; Gods, what a honeymoon!" Carter said.
"It's hardly going to be a honeymoon, besides, we've all got to talk this over as a group. Nothing has been finalized yet."
"Right," said Carter setting Marseena down. "So why don't we do that right now? You said Janit's home." He looked at his time piece, "Donald should be off in a few minutes. Let's all get together and agree." Then he kissed Marseena soundly just to emphasize his point.
"Ok, ok," Marseena said smiling. "You go home and tell Janit we're coming, I'll get Donald. But first Carter, you better tell our friends what's happening. I don't think all of them got really good eavesdroping posts, and they're all trying so hard to look like they're not listening they might have missed something."
Hadtec's head snapped back around at the same second as Karecat. Marseena swept out of the bar waving a hand at Hadtec and Karecat as she passed. "He's all yours, but don't keep him too long we've got a family meeting to hold."
After the first round of congratulations, Arther suggested that after their family meeting they all come back to the station bar. "We'll put together a real congratulations party for all of you. I'll even see if I can straighten out Tar'c's problem with the dancing cake."
"Sounds good to me," said Carter. I'll ask the others and call, they may all want to come and make a big party out of it."
A question had been bothering Hadtec since he first heard Carter's relieving news. "Carter, I'm glad you don't have to decide between space and marriage. But if you had to, what were you going to decide?"
For a moment Carter just looked at Hadtec, then he smiled. "See you at the party in a couple of hours. Bye."
As Carter walked away, a very confused Hadtec turned to Arther. "Does that mean he is going to tell me later at the party what he was going to decide?"
"Possibly," answered Arther, "but I doubt it." Then Arther smile, "You tell me Hadtec, which do you think he should have done?"
Hadtec thought about that one for a long time.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Speculative poetry over Memorial Day Weekend and beyond

2007-05-23T21:12:50Z

Speculative (sf, fantasy, horror, science, etc.) poetry events are happening this weekend:

On May 26 in
Los Angeles, CA
Madison, WI

On May 27 in
Orlando, FL
Hunt Valley, MD

and then in
Pittsburgh, PA, on June 2
Pasadena, CA, on June 16

and beyond! You can find more info, including an extended calendar, at the Science Fiction Poetry Association website:

http://www.sfpoetry.com/poetryevents.html

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Where

2007-05-21T23:32:58Z

Where is the best place to post short stories?
Patrick

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

A little experiment

2007-05-20T23:36:51Z

It's official. I've completely lost my mind. Okay, okay so I actually was born without one (Thanks Mom!), but this is proof I need a bit of help. I've decided to do two experiments at once. One, is to see how much slush I can go through in one twenty four hour period without killing myself or running away from this business entirely. And Two, to see how far and wide the internet can carry this in just a few days.

So, on Monday May 28th 2007 I will be read as much slush as I can. In order to make this effective, I'll need much more slush. Right now, I just don't have enough to make this part entertaining for me. So, if you have something to submit, send it, if you know someone else who has something, make them send it. The email address will go active sometime Friday the 24th during the day. And stay open until about 8 am on May 28th. Each submission will get an auto response from my website; keep this as your receipt.

As enticement, every single submission received during this period is guaranteed to get at least one chapter read and critiqued. If, and only if it follows the complete submission guidelines as described on my website; http://www.onyxhawke.com , and isn't bad enough to make Baby Cthulhu cry.

How it works:

You send.
I read.
In the pursuit of fairness, if after chapter one I am still interested in reading more I will send you an email that will say, "Still reading after one, final decision later" or something similar.

Obviously, if this gets a big response I will not get to everyone Monday, but each qualified submission will still get the one chapter critique, minimum. If you decide you'd rather use the normal submission box, please put "MM-Tribe" as the code at the end of subject line.

Either way, good luck and in honor of my obvious love of pain, I've dubbed this little experiment "Masochism Monday"

Masochism Monday submission box: (mm@onyxhawke.com)

Mike

*****

Edit Begins:

Well, apparently i can't read a calender when its after midnight the above inbox does indeed go active on Friday morning and will stay open until Monday morning, but to accommodate travelers, on Thursday the 24th it will go active for about two hours starting at 7:30am ET.

Reposted from LJ

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Short Story Fantasy Markets

2007-05-04T23:32:58Z

I know, I should invest in the Writer's Market, but I can't afford it right now. I've tried googling for Fantasy magazine markets and call for submissions for fantasy short stories, but I all I've found are three markets for sure. Two I have subscribed to in the past and probably will again in the future when I'm more flush (Realms of Fantasy Magazine and The Magazine of Science Fiction and Fantasy), plus one other I am not familiar with but looks cool and I'd like to try out in the future (BlackGate Magazine).

So, what other Fantasy magazines are out there. I have two fantasy (NOT scifi - fantasy) finished stories (4000 words and 6000 words). I am waiting for them to settle and then need to go back for polishing and editing. Then I want to start the long round of trying them out at different markets. In all probability they won't be accepted first time out, so I would like a list so I can keep trying. If I have a list, I won't be so discouraged when they get rejected.

I wouldn't mind a list of SciFi mags as well, but my scifi stories aren't finished yet, so it's not as much of an issue. I'm familiar with Asimov's and Analog. Those are the only two I know beside the mixed one (scifi and fantasy mag) above.

Anyway, looking for info and thank you for any help you give me.

Thanks.

Cross posted in Scifi/Fantasy Writers tribe.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 3 replies

Gigslist - ShowBiz News, jobs, auditions, tips, resumes and resources.

2007-03-24T20:41:11Z

Gigslist - ShowBiz News, jobs, auditions, tips, resumes and resources.

OoooooooooooooooooO
Listings are from Gigslist.org Main Board from the past 7 Days.
Ooooooo

Greenbelt, MD - Crew and Auditions, April 9-10 FreeJobs
OutOftheBlackBox Theatre Company (O2B2) will hold auditions for "Volpone," a new adaptation by Bill Jones of the play by Ben Jonson http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=696

Arts Resources Wanted for Industry Directory
Submit your arts site, group, tribe, mailing list, publication to the Arts Job Bible for free and Free membership to Gigslist.org and free listing. http://www.gigslist.org

Touring - Guitar Tech for the Wallflowers Paid Jobs
Seeking touring Guitar Tech for the Wallflowers.
http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=700

The Arts Job Bible 831 places to find jobs, casting calls, crew, talent, funding, networking, and industry contacts in Acting, Music, Music Industry, Theatre, Backstage, Film, TV, and Video. Regularly updated with new listings. Only $6.95 at http://www.gigslist.org

Beverly Hills, CA - Administrative Assistant Paid Jobs
Music/Special Events Management Agency (3-4 person office) seeking a Full-Time Administrative Assistant http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=699

Gigslist Reel Idol - Reel Submissions Wanted
Register a Free Account to Submit your Reel and Vote on other Reels Click here… http://www.gigslist.org/user.php?op=register&module=NewUser

Rock music needed for upcoming film FreeJobs http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=698

Entertainment Contract Library
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SF Bay Area - Event Photographers Needed Paid Jobs
Event photography firm looking for freelance photographers to work during May and June at graduations. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=697

San Francisco CA - Storyboard Artist Paid Jobs
Moviehead Pictures is hiring a Storyboard Artist Needed For Romantic Thriller, http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=695

Los Angeles CA - Carpenters Paid Jobs
Looking for day player carpenters with tools and experience pay is $200 per day. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=694

Hollywood, CA - Receptionist/Vault Librarian Paid Jobs
PlasterCITY Digital seeking a friendly energetic individual to answer phones and manage our tape library. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=693

Aliso Viejo, CA - Stunt Coordinator/Stuntman Paid Jobs
We are looking for a stunt coordinator/stuntman for an upcoming short film/trailer production. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=692

New York - Casting PSA Paid Jobs
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New York City - Casting Web/Interactive Paid Jobs
SEEKING ACTORS FOR a KOREAN/JAPANESE WEB-DRAMA. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=690

Chicago, IL - Feature Film Cast and Crew Call Paid Jobs
Film company seeking cast and crew for indy film. Seeking all ages, genders and ethnicity's. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=689

Lakewood NJ - Female Variety Dancer Performer Paid Jobs
woman, under 30, who can tap dance and/or perform a specialty number such as juggling, balloon twisting, magic, hula hoops, etc. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=688

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National Public Radio The Supervising Editor provides editorial and production guidance to Bureau Chief and NPR member station staff
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Washington DC - Broadcast/Recording Technician Paid Jobs
National Public Radio has several immediate openings for Broadcast/Recording Technicians. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=685

4/7 New Jersey - Pitch Session at Fairleigh Dickinson Unversity Events
Seating Limited!! Pitch to Oscar Winner Larry Meistrich (Sling Blade, You Can Count on Me, Belly) and execs from the newly formed NEHST Creations. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=684

Philippines - Asian Stallions / Collaboration /Support Classifieds
We are Indiefilmaker in the Philippines who will collaborate/support with projects who has budgets ranging from $35,000.00 to $600,000. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=683

Culver City, CA - Models for music video. Paid Jobs
We need fabulous babes for a rap video next Tuesday all day in Culver City with possible shoots also Weds night, Thursday night.
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Santa Monica, CA - Part Time Receptionist Paid Jobs
Small commercial post-production facility in Santa Monica looking to fill facility receptionist/concierge position. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=681

San Francisco - Casting Short Film - Multiple Roles Paid Jobs
Graduate Film Directors seeking actors for their next project. Duration: 6 Hours spread over 3 days, starts April 5 - Non-Union artist contracts http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=680

Baltimore/ Washington - Casting Menopause The Musical Paid Jobs
Equity Principle and understudy positions Seeking: Actresses who can sing and move well. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=679

Los Angeles - Casting for Daily Show Paid Jobs
Established production company casting for female lead for a unique and witty daily show. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=678

New York City - Casting for Korean / Japanese Web Drama Paid Jobs
Casting qactors for Korean / Japanese Web Drama . Duration: 13 days (Not Everyday) , starts March 25th. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=677

Sonoma CA - Location Scout Paid Jobs
Need location scouting for outdoor dance music video and dance art piece. Need about 5-6 locations in Northern CA. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=676

New Jersey - Part Time Photographer Paid Jobs
In this position, you must be friendly and have desire to work weekends. A car, internet and email are a must!! http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=675

Atlanta GA - Art Director/Senior Designer Paid Jobs
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New York - Administrative Employee Paid Jobs
New York Film Academy seeking an Administrative Employee whose main function will be establishing and maintaining contact with student candidates. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=673

Seattle WA - AV Tech Paid Jobs
National event staffing agency is looking for a basic Trade Show AV Tech http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=672

Manhattan NY - Freelance 3D Artist/Compositors Paid Jobs
Interviewing the following:3D Artists –Must know XSI, Maya and 3D Studio Max. Compositors - Must know Shake, Fusion and After Effects. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=671

LA, Miami, NYC - TV Crew Paid Jobs
New weekly national TV Magazine in Hebrew seeks local crews in multiple cities for 1-2 days of work per week for ongoing work starting in May. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=670

Nor Cal - MARCH 16,17,18,31 & 4/1 Female Model Jobs Paid Jobs
Affinity Models has Female Model Jobs in Northern California http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=669

Seeks position in the entertainment production sector Resumes
Objective:Secure a position in Entertainment Productionwhere I can utilize my professional skills to help bring creative projects to fruition. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=668

San Francisco, CA - Auditions/Short Narratives FreeJobs
Don't miss this amazing opportunity to audition for upwards of 20 short films - all LEADING ROLES. One easy on-camera casting session. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=667

Palo Alto, CA - Video Editor/HTML Paid Jobs
FriendFinder, Inc. seeking motivated individual with extensive experience in digital video editing and file preparation for web delivery. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=666

San Francisco, CA - Get Paid To Talk About Books Paid Jobs
We have found that people are interested what other people have to say about books; especially as it relates to you. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=665

Telecommute - Motion Graphics Designer/Animator Paid Jobs
Motion Graphics Designer: 2D or 3D AnimatorSan Jose, CA Portland, OR Seattle, WA http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=664

New Jersey - Directors, Musical Directors, and Choreographers Paid Jobs
The Theater Company at DeBaun Auditorium, located on the campus of Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey, is seeking http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=663

Thursday, March 15, 2007 Read full article: 'New Jersey - Directors, Musical Directors, and Choreographers'

New York, NY - Guitarists who Sing Paid Jobs
The New York Kids Club, with four Manhattan locations, is seeking Guitarists who Sing to perform during classes and class transitions.
http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=662

NYC - Female Dancers Paid Jobs
NYC's Dance Makers, Inc., non profit Dance Company seeking dancers of all ethnicities for upcoming performances at Theatre Three http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=661

Sarasota, FL - Intern Pianist Paid Jobs
Florida Studio Theatre, a professional Equity regional theatre, is seeking an intern pianist for the Theatre’s active Children’s program http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=660

Los Angeles CA - On Camera Assistant Paid Jobs
Prestigious On Camera division of major commercial agency seeks an assistant to three agents. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=659

Chicago IL - New Media coordinator Paid Jobs
Candidate would have extensive experience working with band websites, marketing, fan clubs, myspace, etc. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=658

Search is on for Happy Little Vegemites News
Kraft closer to identifying original Happy Little Vegemites after national call for the children who appeared in the iconic 1950s advertisement. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=657

Los Angeles CA - Actors for independent film Paid Jobs
The independent low-budget thriller Next To Die is shooting in June and July of this year. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=656

Nor Cal - Receptionist Paid Jobs
America's Premiere acting and modeling academy, John Robert Powers San Ramon is seeking an energetic and professional receptionist. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=655

Boyton Beach, FL - Light Board Op, Flyman, Deck Electrician, Stagehand Paid Jobs
New Vista Theatre Company seeking to fill out its crew for the final production in its premiere season. Also looking for load in help. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=654

Manheim, PA - Assistant Costumer Paid Jobs
Design Opportunity Possible - Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is looking for someone to step up to the challenge. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=653

NYC - Stage Manager, Sound Person, Stage Hand FreeJobs
This is a Lesbian Comedy Variety Show.One show only on Saturday May 12. Would need a few rehearsals to learn cues. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=652

LA - Production Assistant/Driver Paid Jobs
HD, NYC-based series looking for LA Production Assistant to PA for 1-3 days for interviews March 19-21. Note: Members Only Listing - Gigslist.org membership is free http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=651

James Miller: Delays, Delays at REDCAT, Los Angeles, March 20th Events
James Miller Man and machine carry out a techno pas de deux performing delightfully inventive "short stories" for trombone and digital signal processor. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=650

SF Bay Area - Radio Reporters and Producers Needed Paid Jobs
Self contained magazine features reporting would be required - the series of 8-10 episodes would have a theme to link them. KQED/NPR and BBC http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=649

San Francisco CA - Production Coordinator for feature film Paid Jobs
Center for Asian American Media seeking Post Production Supervisor for SF-based independent digital feature by established Director. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=648

San Diego CA - Plus Models & Alternate Sizes FreeJobs
Seeking 3-5 Plus size and alternate models for fashion shoot for plus size and alternate sizes for a portfolio for several events this year http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=647

Lavallette NJ - Casting Summer Vaudeville & Children’s Story Time Paid Jobs
The Music Man is a unique family-style ice cream Shoppe where the cast/waiters (guys and gals) sing, dance and improv with the audience. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=646

Los Angeles CA - Multi-Media Producer - CBS Interactive Paid Jobs
Needed to edit and post clips on daily basis; shoot and edit special projects; confirm specification and legal clearance of all video materials. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=645

St. Louis MO - Motion Graphics Designer/Animator Paid Jobs
Technisonic, a broadcast production company, is seeking a motion graphics designer/animator for TV commercials. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=644

Studio City CA - Writer/Producer Paid Jobs
Write, produce and direct documentary on Outer Space.Must have documentary experience and be able to start immediately. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=643

New York NY - Supervising Producer for Reality Competition Paid Jobs
Creative and organized NY based Supervising Producer needed for two reality competition food/cooking pilots for popular cable TV networks. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=642

Rohan de Saram at REDCAT, Los Angeles, March 16th at 8:30 p.m. Events
Rohan de Saram plays Carter, Xenakis, Berio, Reynolds, and Schubert "Rohan de Saram is a cello phenomenon, one of the greatest of our time." Kölnische Rundshau http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=641
Englewood, NJ - Costumed Characters for Benefit Paid Jobs
2 actors to be in rabbit costumes for March Madness Benefit for the Boarder Babies and Adoption programs for Children's Aid and Family Services. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=640

Bellport, NY - Associate Casting/Artistic Director Paid Jobs
Seeking talented individual to provide support to the Artistic Office and assist Gateway Playhouse Artistic Director in all creative endeavors. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=639

Irving TX - Traffic Assistant - Fox Networks Paid Jobs
The Traffic Assistant is responsible for inputting orders for national and local commercial material. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=638

Telecommute - 3d Animator Paid Jobs
We are Handling 3D Animation projects (Television Series) for Various International clients. We are in lookout for 3d Animators and 3d Artistes. http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=637

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Looking for writer/producer for major cable network reality show. Demonstrated creative storytelling and ability to direct and supervise http://www.gigslist.org/index.php?name=News&file=article&sid=636

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posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Develop a satisfying character 032107

2007-03-21T17:14:09Z

So I am starting to brainstorm a sci fi idea I have. I have had the overarching plot in my head for quite awhile. I am currently fleshing out smaller plots, taking notes, making outlines, and writing up small vignettes of story. I have even started a website blog to try out that type of organization. I am thinking it would be good to submit a chapter as a short story to a sci fi contest for amatures. That is something new for me. To find information on writing I have come to tribe to find some new friends and support. I started joining groups.

What I found the other day was an intersting link to the "guidelines for submission" from an Isaac Asimov publication. In it they point out that they are looking for character oriented material - note: that is in my words, not their's. So, the thing that came up for me was: I have always had ideas about plot, character abilities, and plot climax. Only recently have I started "seeing" my characters as I outline plots and ideas.

As I seriously started putting pen to paper, I picked up a few books about writing. One on punctuation, one on organization, and one on writing techniques. They have provided good ideas for organizing and what makes good characters, but I wonder what you might recommend to "develop a satisfying character"? Got a favorite method? Would you share?

I put a link to my writing in my profile. Feedback is always welcome.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

World Fantady Con

2006-11-02T05:32:13Z

If anyone's gonna be there, i'll be touching down early and will be in the Jim Baen's Universe suite for at least a few hours friday night.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Hathors Sister

2006-10-27T18:15:38Z

Dear Friends, we have a new tribe
You are welcome to join us:
http://tribes.tribe.net/hathorssister

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Warning a conspiracy theory

2006-09-29T23:15:47Z

Mega Culture

Warning this is a conspiracy theory

What ever happen to the Science Fiction Genre? Excepted for Star Track/Star Wars books on the bottom shelve at the bookstore it’s all but gone. TV, movies and best publishers will tell you it just doesn’t sell anymore. But why’s that? Most of the same people are still alife that were 10 years ago. Convention and chat groups are still going strong. So what happen?
What happen was the block-buster. Publishers don’t want a paperback, movie or TV show that sells well, they want a block-buster. They thought they’d found the answer with the “Mega-genre”. Why not make a science fiction/fantasy/thriller/horror/techno thriller? Put all of these genres together in one movie/book and you’ve got a block-buster every time.
Now this may not seem like a really a bad thing in and of itself. Sometimes those cross overs can turn out well, and be fun. The problem is that it take most of the money and puts into one kind of movie, paperback,tv show. Add to this that a block-buster has to be just so long, and not longer or shoter, movies 85 – 100 minutes, a paper back book has to be a trilogy, and so on. Also it not just a cross over of Science Fiction and something else, it SF and everything else, all in one package. Also when ever there is a hit, big money comes in and try to “impove” it. They try to add in anything that has ever work or any movie, book or TV show, added in reguridless to if it fits into the world or culture that is being portrayed. So you wind up with bad Star War movies and classic TV remade into a main line move by writers that never saw the orginal show.
Still there should be some money left over. There are still some of us in each of these genre that like what we like, not a diluted high-bread. But wait, if you’re a producer making a Mega-genre block-buster you need to get all the genre, you can’t have competitors diluting you audience. So buy the rights to Star Track and make a really bad movie. So it doesn’t sell don’t let that stop you. but will keep the contract so no one else can make a good one. Put out a Firefly movie, but don’t advertise it, see it doesn’t sell, but out of the goodness of our hart will buy off the author with a 10 year contract and put that on the back shelve.
Results, well we all have to go to the same Horror/Science Fiction/Comic book/Fantasy/Spy/Love Story/est. movie/paper back/TV show, because there’s nothing else on the markit. I guess I’ll see you all there.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Need Help Finding Writing Assignments or Getting Published?

2006-09-19T20:04:46Z

http://www.lifeacquisition.com/writing.htm

Forgive the shameless plug, but if you are trying to get published; we are amazing.

Whether it is trying to get your first piece in print or trying to coordinate a full writing career, let us help.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Web sights?

2006-09-18T13:14:04Z

What web sights are publishing new SF by new writers these days? Anyone know?
Patrick

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 5 replies

Still a Fan

2006-08-12T17:49:14Z

STILL A FAN

I've have walked the street of Amber
I've seen the ghost like lights of the Pattern
as it shines in the ghost city in the sky

I have bathed in the ocean of Pern
With a Fire-lizard for a tub-mate
and a Gold Dragon standing guard.

I have dangled my feet in icy stream of gray
while a Fussy and a Hobbit arguing, whither
or not Moteis ever will be free.

I've stood on the docks of Bablon
as the Pride of Chanur came into port.
I've drunk tea and beer at the coffie shops
of Turnfairy and Risessa.

I have heard a Klingon victor cry
echoing through the concurred corrders
of a Romulan War freighter.

I've been to Agent Rome in a phone both.
Along with a curral haired man in a scarf.
While his metal dog keep watch,
Hopeing for a ship call Liborator.

I've fleat the Death Star in a space pod.
Crossed bewteen stars using circal light.
Looking like a swimming pool turn on it side.
I see starfighters and mother ships in the sky.

I've watch showdow and Angels,
Fight white stars in the night.
I've seen a dubble sun rise in the sky
I've seen tomorrow through the Bard's eyes

How can you ask me why,
after all these years
Why I'm am still a Fan?

Patrick Spatz

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

just gave birth! Through the Eyes of the Phoenix....

2006-08-07T22:02:31Z

I've just self-published a novel, Through the eyes of the phoenix, set in 2012 and populated with Menehune, alien beings, dolphin goddesses, extremely low frequency beats(ELF) beats Arnold Schwarznegger and others. I would love to entice you all into reading it and discussing further the vision, phoenix vision.....It's only available through my website, phoenixvision.net

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

ALL STAR TREK'D OUT!

2006-06-27T16:19:25Z

Hello Friends!

Now after recovering from a two month avalanche of writing jobs, I'm taking on new clients for script and book work.

My company is WRITERSSOURCE.NET. I do a wide variety of creative and business writing, but my best work is done analyzing/doctoring books and scripts. You can check out my bio and testimonials from happy customers at WRITERSSOURCE.NET.

In addition, the last two months have been phenomenal! I finished my modern day fairy tale "London Fog" and became a finalist at the International Moondance Film Festival with it. London Fog is getting a lot of positive attention.

I've done six freelance writing jobs, one being an ongoing project whereas I'm developing a great screenplay. (The story has already been bought by a production company.)

I just became an assistant director (and possibly a co-producer) of Star Trek Voyages episode "World Enough and Time", written by Marc Zicree and Michael Reaves, and starring George Takei - pretty dang exciting.

I am also producing/writing and directing a documentary with Marc Zicree on the making of New Voyages called "Elvis Made Me Do Star Trek". (If you look at their website you'll get the Elvis reference.) Not to shabby!

If you need any more convincing go to the website and check me out! Otherwise, please don't hesitate to e-mail or call.

Have a super-great-wonderful-summer!

Tasha Hardy
Producer/Writer/Director
213-804-7025
tasha@writerssource.net

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Paying market. BBT Magazine is seeking submissions

2006-06-15T11:58:19Z

http://www.bbtmagazine.com

BBT Magazine is a publication of speculative fiction with a slant to the satirical; we are looking for works of horror, fantasy, and science fiction, some of which may convey a self-deprecating or humorous view of the genre.
We are looking for fiction, illustrations, articles, and reviews of genre publications.
Keep in mind it is not our goal to attack or ridicule, but to occasionally provide a light-hearted view of the various genres and/or the followers they gather. At the same time, we don't want to lose sight of serious short fiction, and welcome those submissions as well. Our target readership is of age, therefore adult themes are welcome within the realm of good taste.
We understand that good taste is a subjective mistress, and we fully intended to tread on her vague borders now and then, but we are not looking for work that is arbitrarily abusive.

Genres
As stated above, any works relating to horror, fantasy, or science fiction are applicable in the form of short stories (length not to exceed 10,000 words), poetry, articles, or reviews.
Reviews and articles may include extensions into the genres including: gaming, books, comic books/graphic novels, art, music, and movies.

Please send submissions to:
http://www.bbtmagazine.com

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

Proofreading for free!

2006-06-14T18:25:41Z

Greetings Community Members,

I am a freelance proofreader. I'm currently in the process of expanding my resume and would like to add science fiction to my experience. I will proofread one chapter of anything you are currently writing at no charge. Materials should be double spaced, no shorter than ten pages, and no longer than twenty pages. I will return pages to you with correections within 48 hours of acceptance. I can indicate corrections either on Microsoft Word using the Track Changes feature or on a hard copy. In exchange, I ask that you allow me to add your name and the title of your work to my resume. I will not plagiarize your work or share it with anyone else. I only need about six different people right now, so hurry and get your name in before someone from another community does! If you are interested or have questions, please email me at tksmith@mail2bookmark.com.

Thank you for your time, and may your dreams of being published come true!

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

hey all

2006-05-09T18:02:36Z

I'm glad to see this tribe is thriving. back when i made this, i looked through the writing tribes and saw there wasn't one for sci-fi writers, and i was shocked. i've never made a successful tribe before, and I'm very thankful all of you have joined (tell your sci-fi writer freinds!). the pictures in the album rock, and the topics are all thoughtful and/or helpful. i am sorry that I haven't been able to read all of your work (I will get around to it, i promise!), but i'm sure what you guys and gals have been writing is awesome.
as for my own book (I had to do a plug, come on), editing is going....slowly. however, once school is out next week, i will have lots more free time. hopefully, by the end of this year, "A Moment in Time" will be finished and you can all read it right here in this tribe for free!

good luck to you all!

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

The door in cyberspace opened

2006-05-09T14:37:24Z

Like all portals it started with with the sound of atoms being ripped from one section of the galaxy to another. There was a stink of brimstone or maybe the flooding scent of lilacs each cloyingly horrible in their own taoist way. The suitcase came thru first followed by what looked to be a charming round bubba next door in plaid pajamma's and a striped shirt. A cat tried to jump thru but he picked her up and said not this time priscilla and tossed her uncermoniously back. Leo turned from his computer in a "start!" "a slow motion spin" "Leap of Glee" "your sentence here". Wow, he said I didn't know there was a portal into my room. There usually isn't the man said. Forgive me, Timefire's the name. I am attempting to slip away from my usual stuck in the box of my life and do some spatial shifting and perhaps you know crumble a castle of writers blocks. But I liked your hair, if you check you can see i reached back in time and found the picture where i had mine. He
chuckled then it was the sound of rootbeer washing down years of pizza. Frankly, Timefire
said I couldn't resist your button nose either. Leo suddenly wished he had a force saber.
There There Timefire said none of that it just makes the assimilation harder. Timefire lefted a hand and it became a tenticle slithering through the air it cupped around Leo's neck. Timefire smiled it was pretty horried Leo grimaced the fetid air of the tomb filled his nostrils. Ah, you are such a Jedi young and strong and so tasty. Leo felt a dull sense of horror as Timefire's lips closed on his neck. I will just need a little this time..as he bit there
was the sound of Darth Vader's theme and thunder in the background then everything went dark. Yes, Timefire said wiping his lips most tasty indeed and such lovely hair. He rumpled
the sleeping boys hair. A nice soul slave you will make. The fabric of the room ripped again and he was gone.
The phone rang and Leo awoke with a start God that had been a scary dream he got up to go to the bathroom. Walking in he glanced in the mirror. It was then he saw the hickey.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 4 replies

Villains

2006-05-08T20:23:56Z

WHat do you all do to create your villains?

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

learning how to write

2006-04-03T22:12:45Z

I wrote down a dream I had about 5 years ago. When I was dreaming my heart was pounding and I was scared out of my wits, yet my written version seems so bland. I need a few pointers. The story is 2500+ words and I would like to cut it to 1000 words and have a interesting story. Thanks.

http://people.tribe.net/dc7bb4cb-b1ea-4153-9bea-7c0adcc36104/blog?_click_path=Application%5Btribe%5D.Tribe%5Be5f6e1db-ac92-440c-acb1-7b2bdae722bc%5D&topicId=87f91e7e-7d2f-49e7-b3a2-afeabe41579f

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 4 replies

San Francisco workshop?

2006-01-10T18:17:49Z

Hello -

I am looking to join or start a small workshop for science fiction writers, preferably novelists with manuscripts, in the city of San Francisco. Please contact me if you would be interested.

-john

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 2 replies

Introducing my online novel

2005-11-09T19:32:45Z

It's a long project, started back in the heady days of 2001 and ongoing may I present my online novel at www.queworld.co.uk

A mix of tomorrow sci-fi (bits of now covered in screams of the future) with a side order of small time conspiracy in a world that has proven every conspiracy correct and a healthy dollop of magick thrown into to the mix.

There are 17 chapters up at present, plus a time line giving you the history of the world and a couple of notes on the two main characters.

Have a look and if you have the time have a read and let me know what you think...

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 0 replies

with leo's permission, some stuff I work on

2005-10-27T16:48:55Z

or rather, some old stuff, because that was the most easy way... just follow the links, and/or post some of your work ?

http://veraandbeyond.tribe.net/thread/5b75db32-cd80-4aaf-b78b-ca0adfa30138?threads=true&r=10369#e40f43aa-b5e7-40e0-88a2-3a7a7fdba51e

cheers,

YtD

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 1 reply

NaNoWriMo

2005-10-10T22:02:23Z

Anyone going for NaNoWriMo this year? I'd love to, but I have a 5 and a 2 1/2 year old girls, and very little free time. But I think I'll give it a try, anyway. Probably fail miserably, but I'll give it a shot.

I've posted this in a couple other tribes, so sorry if you've read it before.

posted in Science Fiction Writers - 5 replies