(no subject)

This morning is devoted to me making sense of what I've written in my dissertation to date so that I can actually build on it. This is why, you see, the chapter I was working on last week was such a complete and awful nonsense. The ideas were there, and some of the explanation, but it really didn't advance my argument or show anyone anything about the topic. I'd carefully written building blocks a year ago and my fallible memory (which was once a very precise engine - my brain operates quite differently these days) and put them in draft earlier chapters. I'd remembered what I'd written in those chapters, mostly, but I'd forgotten which bits were building blocks for later. And now when I need those building blocks, they're there and I .... forgot.

This morning is re-reading and writing notes and this afternoon is going through the new sections and fitting everything together. Tomorrow is finding out if that's enough to sort the mess that was the last 2 month's work. If it is, then I shall rejoice, for the biggest chunk of my research will be done. If it isn't, then I shall ponder gravely and do what must be done.

I want to return to my novel, but that's not going to happen for a bit.

(no subject)

I don't normally give links to reviews of my books, but SFnal cookbooks are strange and special and two SF critics have dared to tackle the Conflux cookbook. You can find the reviews here and here.

And, just because I can, here's the link to the order form, since this probably isn't a buying-in-bookshops kind of book. For Canberrans, I still have a few copies - but only until the Conflux committee picks them up.

And now, my amazing precognition sees me having more coffee and working on my dissertation, which alas, lacks both recipes and reviews.

(no subject)

I've answered the question I set myself for my dissertation. Can I go home now? What do you mean I have to spend 16 more months writing it up? Waaaah!!!

This happened last time, too. I answered my question and really didn't want to do the rest. It's just communicating my conclusions and research and argument accurately and precisely and convincingly to other people - not nearly as interesting as doing the research and answering the question. Thank goodness this time there's a novel to keep me from tearing my hair out quite so soon. Also, two chapters which are entirely and completely undrafted which might - but probably won't - change my answer. Still, question answered and I don't get time off for good behaviour. One of the minor and more silly unfairnesses of life.

I'm taking a celebrative break, anyway. I go to watch Torchwood in an hour!

For the record, the answer was ... No, if I have to write it up, you can wait a few months. Or a year. Or so.