Category Archives: My writing and works

A new bookshelf

Prosaic, but what the hell. Two days ago, I went to American Furniture Warehouse and bought a three-shelf bookcase for my Civil War books. The new year shall bring even more focus to this project, as I continue to red-pen … Continue reading

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Ain’t gonna study war no more

Vicki and I resumed our watching of the Ken Burns Civil War documentary with Episode Six, 1864 part one, last evening. And in the stillness of a coffee-sipping morning today, as I gazed idly at the Christmas lights strung above … Continue reading

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Lincoln as monster

I have easily a dozen Civil War books going at this point. My primary focus, though, in the coming weeks are David Herbert Donald’s biography of Lincoln and Gore Vidal’s novel about Lincoln. The question at hand–or at my hand, … Continue reading

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Coming up with a title

Book titles is the subject today. My new Civil War anti-war novel in particular as, in the wee hours prior to rising, a few candidates presented themselves. Some novel titles come quickly, as was the case with Deadweight, Walking Wounded, … Continue reading

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Eris, Goddess of Discord

I do indeed believe that the way to tie all of my Civil War incidents together–or a principal way I’ll do that (there shall be others)–will be via the Greek Gods, especially Ares the God of War, and Eris, the … Continue reading

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Lincoln again

The Civil War books pile up, my red pen furiously underlining things I can use in the new novel.  I’ve been re-viewed the Ken Burns DVDs, and starting in on Gary Gallagher’s course for The Teaching Company. I’ve also had … Continue reading

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Getting around saintly Abe

I think I’ve mentioned I’m mulling a Civil War novel, so it’ll come as no surprise that I need to know about Lincoln. As a proponent of non-violence and one pretty deeply cynical about politicians the higher up the food … Continue reading

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An open letter to Jack Nicholson…

Jack, Jack, old friend who knows me not in the least, Vicki and I delighted in your performance in The Departed this past weekend.  We’re in our fifties and have grown up with you in all your many roles, from … Continue reading

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