OFF-EARTH Ethical Questions and Quandaries For Living In Outer Space

OFF EARTH

- Erika Nesvold -

With Musk making plans to settle Mars, it's time to think about the ethics of living in space.

Off-Earth is a great overview of some of the things we should be thinking about, like should we even settle other planets? Who is going to be the settlers? What kind of laws will we use? Equity? Customs and rules? So many things, big and small, to consider.

I picked up this book from my local library, I'm a sucker for the NEW RELEASE SCI-FI wall, and I slowly made my way through all the pages. It wasn't earth shattering, or even a book I'd say is required reading. But it made me start to think.

With all this hype about putting people on the Moon, maybe even Mars, I get excited. I picture Star Trek, and the countless Sci-Fi stories I've read. Astronauts floating in space, planting flags in craters, mining exotic minerals, etc.

But what about reality, the day to day functioning of space. Currently there is a very weak, vague, UN charter on Space. And, who really follows UN rules anyway? The only real rule seems to be that no country is allowed to claim a planet to themselves. Kind of like Antarctica here on Earth. But who is going to actually enforce this? 

The book brings up many topics that one might not think about here on earth. Air, for instance. Who's in charge of air. What about homeless people? With such little space how do you deal with homelessness? 

The big thing to me was who is going to be settling space? It seems like the Super-Duper-Rich are going to be the first people to get into space. How is that going to effect all future development?

See, a whole big bag of things to mull over.

It looks like space is the new wild west. 

The Dispossessed by Ursula LeGuin

 The Dispossessed

The Dispossessed by Ursula LeGuin

- Ursula K. LeGuin -

What a world builder this book is! Ursula is so great at making up new worlds, like in her Earthsea novels. Not only that, but this book was a solid manifesto on her idea of communal living, and I guess taken a little further, her ideas on socialism/communism. LeGuin makes this big idea very readable with a decent  plot and her amazing prose. 

We follow the story of a man living on another planet that is very resource poor (what could be the moon?). The society there is set up to be most efficient by cooperation and sharing. Nobody owns anything, they all sleep in communal dorms, they all take turns doing manual labour, etc. Then this man, who is a scientific genius I should add, is transported back to Earth. Our home planet is set up the exact same as now, with overabundance, excess, and a class based society. The contrast between these two societies is interesting, especially when you throw in a love story, a revolution, and some science fiction.

The entire time I was reading this book I kept getting flashbacks of Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged. Which makes sense since both novels explore utopian and dystopian themes. However, they both take different sides of the idea of an individual focused society and a communal focused society. 

As always, I'm impressed with LeGuin's writing and was very happy with this book. I'd recommend getting a copy for yourself.

I have to explain the picture of the book on display at a laundromat. Our dryer stopped working, so I was making nightly trips to the laundromat. I'd wash the clothes at home, and take three or four loads to the laundromat to dry. I also took this book to read while waiting. Well, somedays I would be tempted to throw another quarter in the dryer just to get a few more minutes of reading time.

Using AI to Write

 Using AI to Write A Blog Post

AI generated image of our future

There has been so much hype about CHAT GPT and other AI lately; that a future of AI means an end to writing! And end to creativity! And end to what makes us human!

Is it true?

I've taken on the task of testing out a few AI systems. Nothing too in depth. You know, kicking the wheels, lifting the hood, just to get an idea of how good they really are at writing.

Perplexity AI

I've fiddled around with this AI, attempting different prompts and questions. Asking it to write me a blog post, asking it to write me a scene in a story, asking it to write me a cold call email for a big charity donation.

I was surprised at how well Perplexity wrote the email. It sounded professional, well thought out, persuasive, and ready to copy and paste.

The other requests - make up a scene in a story, and write me a blog post - were utter crap.

The request for a blog post gave me a few bullet point ideas and a very weak introductory blurb. I do have to say the ideas were decent, and Perplexity does give you links to the sites it used for research. So, I can't complain too much. It gave me a solid foundation for a blog post, but I would have to do a bit of research to flesh it out. It was far away from an easy cut and paste. I thought AI was supposed to eliminate all the work? 

The creative writing request was a pile of dog shit! I asked it to write a short scene where my character finds a hidden panel in the wall. Behind the panel is a safe. I asked for excitement and suspense. What I got back was two paragraphs full of repetitive, short sentences, and cliche lines ... "her heartbeat quickened", that kind of thing. The writing felt exactly like an AI wrote it. If I were actually trying to use this to help me write an actual short story or novel, I would have used maybe one sentence...and that's a stretch.  

Rytr.me

It's pronounced 'writer'. With a name like that you'd think this AI bot would be the new Hemingway of the digital revolution. 

It's not, but does an okay job of 'creative' writing. A similar prompt of 'write me a scene...' gave me a readable, yet still cliche filled, page of prose. However, it still felt very stiff and robotic. There was actually some dialogue, which sounded vaguely human. But the chatter had little character or personality, however, it wasn't that far off something I might write in a first draft.

Where Rytr did shine was when I asked it to write me a blog post.

First Rytr came up with a few ideas / topics I might want to add. From there I could 'expand' the ideas I wanted and Rytr took on the time consuming job of writing a little blurb. This non-fiction type of writing was great. It flowed nicely, the facts were there, and even the casual tone (which I asked for) rang true. Much, much better than the 'creative writing'.

 

So if AI is the future of writing, then us humans can feel pretty confident that we will still have plenty of job security in the areas of writing, especially writing anything creative. Non-creative writing will be made much easier if you treat AI like a tool to do the foundation work, and you just come along afterwards and add the finishing touches.

Easy To Kill by Agatha Christie

 Easy To Kill

Easy to Kill Agatha Christie - 1974 Cover

- Agatha Christie - 

Agatha Christie is a name that is synonymous with mystery and intrigue. She is one of the most famous authors of all time, and her books have been read by millions of people around the world. I've read a good dozen or so and really enjoyed each one. My latest, and one of her lesser-known works is "Easy to Kill." If you're new to Agatha Christie's work, "Easy to Kill" is a great place to start. It's a quick read that will introduce you to her unique style of mystery writing. And if you're already a fan of Christie's work, "Easy to Kill" is a must-read.

To me it this book was a classic Christie mystery, which usually entails:

• A seemingly perfect crime is introduced and investigated.
• The wrongly accused suspect is at the center of the investigation.
• The bungling of dim-witted police is a common theme.
• The detective has greater powers of observation and a superior mind.
• The startling and unexpected denouement, in which the detective reveals how the identity of the culprit was ascertained.

The 'detective' in this book is not a Poirot or Miss Marple, but the retired police officer Fitzwilliam is one sharp tool (not much of a personality though).

The plot is well-crafted, and the characters are interesting and engaging. It starts right from the beginning with a quote from an old lady, "It's very easy to kill - so long as no one suspects you. And you see, the person in question is just the last person anyone would suspect." That got me engaged and wondering who seems innocent.

The story is full of twists and turns, and the ending is satisfying with the the last person you would suspect. It was a bit of a surprise to me. I guess I got a bit fooled by all the red herrings. With this book, Christie created one of her creepiest, most disturbing villains, proving that revenge is a frightening dish best served cold.

Mystery book meme

It's amazing to me that Christie books are still so good to read, considering this one was written in the 1930s. I read A Murder is Announced a little while ago, and loved that book too. Check out my review and thoughts on how Christie is still relevant almost 100 years later.

The other amazing thing about Christie books is that I often find them for cheap, cheap, cheap prices. My local thrift store sells these books for only 50 cents. And Easy To Kill, I found at a 'fill-a-box-for-$5' sale. I'm sure I only paid a quarter for it.

Exploring the Timeless Appeal of Vintage Sci-Fi: Why Should You Read Old Science Fiction?

The Enduring Charm of Vintage Sci-Fi

Spectrum Sci Fi Short Stories

In a world filled with technology developing faster than the average person can keep up, and futuristic advancements, like AI, there is something undeniably captivating about the enduring charm of vintage science fiction. From the golden age of science fiction to the iconic works that have shaped our perception of the genre, vintage sci-fi continues to captivate readers like me and transport us back to imaginative worlds beyond our wildest dreams. 

I just finished a publication of short stories. I'm not sure if it was a magazine or a regular quarterly publication of some sort, called Spectrum. It was from the late 60s, and was filled with some of the best of the era. Including authors like Fred Pohl and Robert Heinlein.

There was a story about a future where robots are so efficient that our job as humans is to consume, consume, consume. An fun look at what it would mean to be 'poor' in that kind of society. The lower class have to consume more than the 'rich'. 

There was also a time travel story by Heinlein that was a fun read. A man cycles through time over and over again, creating a self fulfilling future for himself. It's hard to explain, but a very good read. 

I love finding old sci fi books like this. They are so fun to read, and sometimes a little out of date (especially when computers of the future are still the size of rooms). After reading a book or collection like this I often find myself thinking...

What is it that makes vintage sci-fi so fun to read?

The influence of vintage science fiction on modern culture and technology cannot be overstated. From the pages of classic novels to the movie screens, the classic stories have shaped our perceptions of the future and inspired advancements in various fields. 

Vintage sci-fi literature such as H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine" or Isaac Asimov's "I Robot" introduced us to futuristic concepts like time travel and artificial intelligence long before they became a reality. These visionary authors not only entertained readers but also sparked curiosity and innovation among scientists and engineers.

Moreover, the impact of vintage sci-fi is evident in today's popular culture. Iconic films like "Blade Runner" and "Star Wars" have not only captivated huge audiences with their thrilling narratives but have also influenced fashion trends, design aesthetics, and even technological developments. The sleek designs of spaceships or the futuristic gadgets depicted in these films have inspired real-world inventions. And perhaps over time a space ship shaped like the Enterprise.

In addition to shaping popular culture, vintage sci-fi has had a profound impact on technological advancements. Concepts explored in these works often push boundaries and challenge existing scientific theories. From Jules Verne's submarine in "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" to Arthur C. Clarke's vision of satellite communication in "2001: A Space Odyssey," these ideas have paved the way for real-world innovations that were once deemed impossible.

Science fiction literature has always been a powerful medium for exploring timeless themes and providing social commentary. Vintage sci-fi works in particular have left a lasting impact on readers by delving into societal issues and presenting thought-provoking narratives.

One of the key aspects of vintage sci-fi is its ability to create dystopian societies that reflect the fears and concerns of their respective eras. Ray Bradbury, Orwell, Atwood are masters of this. These works often serve as cautionary tales, warning us about the potential consequences of unchecked technological advancements or oppressive political systems.

Moreover, vintage sci-fi authors were not just storytellers; they were also keen observers of human nature and the complexities of society. Through their imaginative worlds and futuristic technology, they were able to shed light on contemporary issues such as racism, class inequality, environmental degradation, and the dangers of authoritarianism. 'The Dispossessed' by Ursula Le Guin is a great example that I just finished reading.

By exploring these themes through a futuristic lens, vintage sci-fi works continue to resonate with readers across generations. They not only entertain us with their captivating stories but also force us to reflect on our own society and consider the implications of our actions.

In an ever-changing world where new technologies emerge and societal challenges persist, it is worth revisiting these timeless themes in vintage sci-fi works. They remind us that despite the passage of time, human nature remains constant and that literature can serve as a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and shaping our future.

In conclusion, embracing the treasures of vintage sci-fi can provide readers with a truly unique and captivating reading experience. By delving into the works of classic science fiction authors, we can transport ourselves to imaginative worlds filled with futuristic technologies, alien civilizations, and thought-provoking concepts.

Vintage sci-fi literature offers a glimpse into the past and allows us to appreciate the visionary ideas that were ahead of their time. It allows us to explore themes such as artificial intelligence, space exploration, time travel, and dystopian societies - concepts that continue to shape our present understanding of science and technology.

Moreover, reading vintage sci-fi can be a nostalgic journey for those who grew up with these books or were influenced by them in their formative years. It provides an opportunity to revisit beloved stories and characters while also discovering hidden gems that may have been overlooked.

By embracing vintage sci-fi literature, we not only gain access to a rich literary heritage but also open ourselves up to new perspectives and ideas. These timeless tales serve as a reminder of the power of imagination and the boundless possibilities that lie within the realm of science fiction.

So let us embark on this journey through time and space, immersing ourselves in the wonders of vintage sci-fi for an unparalleled reading experience that transcends generations.

*This blog post was produced with the help of that futuristic technology A.I. I used the website Rytr, which does a wonderful job of actually writing some decent prose. You need to tweak it, but overall, not bad. It lacks voice of course. This does not sound like anything I would write. But, it's very legible, easy to read, and has some good ideas and facts. It deserves a decent grade.

 Legends and Lattes

- Travis Baldree - 

I have been reading a lot of heavy, hard sci-fi, war based books like Battlefield Earth and Old Man's War. Exciting stories, but full of death and destruction. Legends and Lattes is the exact opposite of that, which is a nice change for me. It's a story about building something, instead of blowing it up. Making a community, instead of killing it. So, like I said, a nice change.

Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree is about building up a business and friendships. The story follows Viv, an orc who quits her life of violence to build a coffee shop. Gnomish coffee! Along the way, she befriends a troupe of characters and together they create a safe place for all. As a frequent visitor of such places as Starbucks, I can say that the coffee shop setting is relatable and adds to the charm of the story. Which reminds me, it's Pumpkin Spice Season!  Legends and Lattes is a cozy and comforting book that is as satisfying as a cinnamon bun (or a thimblet) and a hot cup of coffee - gnomish if you have it.

OLD MAN'S WAR by John Scalzi

 Old Man's War

Old Man's War - Scalzi

- John Scalzi -

A must read for Sci-Fi fans. Space battles, nanotechnology, faster than light travel, and much more sciency ideas to play with. There is the classic fight for the universe against ugly sounding aliens, with a big explosive finish. A solid sci-fi book, in my opinion.

The premise of the story is that older humans can join an army of space colony defenders. The draw is that instead of dying of old age you are rejuvenated with special technology that makes your body young again. The catch is that you are now part of the colony defender army for a term of ten years. 

This change, from old to young, is a fun read. Both from a physical point of view and a psychological perspective. The new body is enhanced with special 'Smartblood' that holds nutrients and oxygen better, and also clots quick to save you from dying in battle. The new recruit is also given a 'Brainpal', a microchip in the brain that is essentially a computer, allowing you to connect with others and 'google' information. A new body full of technology to make a super soldier.

There are a few boot camp type training scenes and grisly battles against creepy aliens to show this new technology at work. Great fun.

The story gets deep when the main character comes across his long dead wife. Only it's not his wife, it is just her DNA used to create a specialized human soldier.

Throughout the book there are deep questions. What does it mean to be human? Is it your body or your mind that make you the person you are? What happens if you disrupt the regular cycle of life? Is death a good thing? How much modification can you do before the body is not human anymore?

These questions are not specifically asked, of course. But they are hinted at, very discreetly, throughout the entire book. It makes you think.

I like Scalzi's writing style. It's serious, with what feels like hard sci-fi ideas, but he works in a humorous tone. A sarcastic tone maybe? Whatever it is, I like it. I find myself smiling while reading, and thinking deep thoughts when I put the book down. That's a winner to me.

Draft One Page 38

 Did I just change 80% of my first draft?

Revising my first draft. Look at the rejects.

I've been revising the first draft of a short story. It had been going well, until yesterday. That was when I came to the last page, which was in rough shape. I must have run out of steam on the first draft because almost every single piece of it, every word choice, every detail, I did not like. I only found a handful of things I liked enough to keep. Usually it is the opposite. Usually it is not too much work.

This page was different.

I ended up splitting the work into three sections.

Three work sessions on this piece of ... a diamond in the rough

The first section I did while on the bus ride home from work. It's tricky to write while riding a bus. Luckily most of the hard lifting was mental.

The second section I did while falling asleep on the couch after a long, hot day. Managed to fix up one paragraph.

The last section I pounded out this morning at work. I wasn't busy and I felt like I just needed to finish it off, because if I didn't I knew I would procrastinate and drag this thing on for another few days.

I'm getting happy with the result. I'll let my brain do it's thing and think it over for a day or two, then we'll take another look at it. 

It will still need a good polish, but at least it's done for now.

The Digital Dictionary Bookmark

The Digital Dictionary Bookmark Changed My Life!

We all need a dictionary at some point, don’t we? For instance, when you’re reading in your most comfortable reading chair and you run across a word like parsimony. Like many avid readers you probably have an old dictionary nearby. It’s probably battered and torn and maybe even missing the cover. Useful, but not something you would want seen out of the house.

But, what if you are out at a coffee shop and run across a word like parsimony? Do you carry around your dilapidated dictionary for situations like this? Of course not. It would be like wearing your pajamas in public! Those flannel pants are fine when you are hanging out around the house, mostly likely reading, but not when you are past your front door.

How do you get around this dire situation?

The electronic dictionary bookmark.

Electronic Dictionary Bookmark

It’s a revolutionary tool that allows you to have a dictionary at your fingertips for those times when you run across that dang parsimony word. And without the embarrassment of carrying a molding coverless three pound dictionary with you everywhere. The dictionary bookmark is the yoga pants of books. You wouldn’t dream of wearing your pajama pants outside of the house, but it is completely acceptable to wear yoga pants which are pretty much just as comfortable.

Now, when you are enjoying that steaming americano and need to clarify a word all you need to do is discreetly type away on your bookmark.

Now I’m a parsimonious guy, very parsimonious, but I can tell you that the high price of this bookmark is well worth the money. It’s changed my life. I can now read in public. Freedom! Can you put a price on that?

Mathew Smith - Dictionary User

When Inspiration Strikes

When inspiration strikes, you become resourceful.

This was the only paper I had

Sitting in the man-van and waiting is a normal part of my day - I'm the Dad-taxi right now. Which is a great time of life for someone like me. I don't get bored. If I have to wait five minutes, fifteen minutes, whatever amount of minutes, for someone to be done their part-time job shift, or their baseball game...I don't mind. I take the time to sit and think. 

The other day I was going over the opening to a new story I'm working on. It sounded so good in my head that I had to put it down on paper. I knew if I didn't do that right away, my masterpiece would be gone and never return. My man-van is usually stocked full of paper (sometimes referred to as junk or garbage), but that day it was bare.

Had I cleaned? Where were the old, crusty, coffee stained notebooks that sit in the car for months on end, getting stepped on with muddy boots, and sun faded by the blistering summer rays?

All I had was a Sudoku book. When in a MacGyver situation, do what MacGyver would do. I looked through the Sudoku book and found the title page was almost empty. Hah, I'd found a place to write. 

Now to find a pen. Just like the paper situation, we were all clear of pens. I found an old marker. It worked.

Thank goodness, because what I had to put down on paper at that moment was pure gold!