kalpurna

So, the other day I was in the bookstore, and I noticed that Michael Chabon had a new book out. I flipped it open, and I read this:

The more I dive into this matter of whaling, and push my researches up to the very spring-head of it, so much the more I am impressed with its great honorableness and antiquity; and especially when I find so many great demi-gods and heroes, prophets of all sorts, who one way or other have shed distinction upon it, I am transported with the reflection that I myself belong, though but subordinately, to so emblazoned a fraternity.

--Herman Melville, on the writing of fanfiction

I had no choice but to buy it. You guuuys, it is awesome! The first essay is all about short stories and genre fiction and the ghettoization of certain types of writing, and our terror at the idea of reading being something you do primarily for entertainment, and afkjasldk it is the book I would have written if I could write like he writes. It's not primarily about fanfic or anything, but I still highly recommend it to all of you.

Maps and Legends on Amazon. (Proceeds from the book go to benefit 826 National! Bonus!)