My newsletter is published on the first of every month. Along with my weekly stories, it is exclusively on Substack. To see the current edition as well as past stories and newsletters, visit my Substack page. Thank you for reading.
JRC
SciFiMonthly No. 5
The Science-Fiction-Create monthly newsletter
In this month's issue:
Welcome | Science-Fiction-Create Recap | More in SciFiNews | The Goods
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Welcome
Hey SciFiFriends. A new month, a new newsletter. I hope your summer is shaping up as well as possible, given the circumstances. I'm missing the summer movie season; taking a break from the heat in a theater is one of my favorite escapes. Hopefully, the situation will improve in the coming months and we can all return to life - and the theaters.
June was a big month for Science-Fiction-Create. In this July edition of SciFiMonthly, I share a recap of content over the last several weeks, introduce you to some noteworthy news in science and science fiction, and share a few new likes of mine in movies, online content, and books.
As always, I welcome your thoughts and suggestions. Feel free to comment on my posts or send me a message here.
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Science-Fiction-Create Recap
This last month, I spent a lot of time pondering the near future for humanity, from artificial intelligence to alien first contact. Here are a few highlights:
We hear a lot about artificial intelligence (AI) these days. But not some future tech or sci-fi fantasy, AI is here now, in devices like TVs and smartphones. I explored what the near future of AI means for us in this post. Machines might end up being kinder than we are. Will that be good or bad for humanity? It won't be long before we find out.
In a subscriber-only post, I considered how readily we'd recognize an alien if we encountered one. A common trope in sci-fi movies is characters at first mistaking aliens for something familiar. But is this how we'd actually react? Check out this story to find out my thoughts. Not a paid subscriber but still want to read this story? Send me a note, and I will share a link for free!
I continued the theme "aliens" in this post on how big we can expect intelligent aliens to be. Generally, sentient creatures in movies like Star Wars are the same size as us. But biologically, is this what we should expect? There's some real science being used to explore this very question.
Finishing out the month, I focused more on the making side of Science-Fiction-Create. Here, I considered the psychology behind why we make things. Humans are unique creatures - we create to feel whole. It is a defining characteristic of our species, and our world is more colorful, diverse, and tasty as a result.
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More in SciFiNews
It seems like ages ago when Robert Behnken and Doug Hurley blasted off aboard the Space X Crew Dragon capsule (on May 30th). The pair is still up there, circling the Earth in the Internation Space Station (ISS). Today, Wednesday, July 1st, Behnken, along with Chris Cassidy, will conduct a spacewalk outside the ISS to replace some batteries. I gather it's a bit more complicated than changing the AAAs in my TV remote.
The new onscreen adaptation of Frank Herbert's Dune is causing quite the buzz in sci-fi circles. David Lynch made an epic film version of the story back in 1984, which garnered mixed reviews (I liked it, but it is long and convoluted - 4 hours!). This time around, filmmaker Denis Villeneuve has taken the bold step to shorten and modernize the story for a 21st-century audience. Villeneuve directed both Arrival and Blade Runner 2049 - two of the best sci-fi films in recent years. His talents are well known and give many of us high hopes that Dune will finally get the silver screen treatment it deserves.
Finally, a bit more real science in the search for ET - astronomers have found two Earth-like planets orbiting a "near-by" red dwarf. What makes these worlds so special is how inactive their star is. It does not emit excessive radiation or solar flares, both of which would jeopardize the long-term success of life on its circling planets. A calm star such as this creates a stable environment, enhancing the chances for survival and increasing the time life might have to evolve. Now, all we have to do is go explore them - they are only 10.7 lightyears away. That's 62.3 trillion miles from Earth.
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The Goods
Here are a few of my likes as a fan of science, sci-fi, horror, and creating.
Books - Exhalation (2019), by Ted Chiang. Alfred A. Knopf, New York. From the publisher: "In these nine stunningly original, provocative, and poignant stories, Ted Chiang tackles some of humanity's oldest questions along with new quandaries only he could imagine. Including stories being published for the first time as well as some of his rare and classic uncollected work, Exhalation is Ted Chiang at his best: profound, sympathetic—revelatory." Why I like it: Chiang's reputation for tackling big issues using science fiction is undeniable (he wrote Stories of your life and others - the book adapted into the movie Arrival); he's a master storyteller with a fantastic command of the written word. His style - clear, easy to follow, and accessible - is deceptively simple. The depth of meaning, in what is said and - most importantly - what is left unsaid - speaks volumes. Each short story will leave you pondering for hours and days after. I highly recommend it. Note: A special thanks to Steffani for giving me this book.
Movies - The Vast of Night (2020), directed by Andrew Patterson and starring Sierra McCormick and Jake Horowitz. Available to stream on Amazon Prime. From Amazon's website: "In the twilight of the 1950s, on one fateful night in New Mexico, a young switchboard operator Fay (Sierra McCormick) and charismatic radio DJ Everett (Jake Horowitz) discover a strange audio frequency that could change their small town and the future forever." Why I like it: For a sci-fi enthusiast and mid-century technophile like me, this movie has it all - radio signals from outer space, cryptic phone calls, conspiracy, cover-up, and loads of spooky ambiance. The dialog between the two young stars is riveting, lightning-fast, and smart. The Vast of Night will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
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That's it for the June SciFiMonthly. Stay tuned this week for my Friday story. I'm continuing the focus on making and will discuss my take on "the right tool for the job."
Be well, and be kind, everyone.
SciFiMonthly No. 4
The Science-Fiction-Create monthly newsletter
In this month's issue:
Welcome | Science-Fiction-Create Recap | More in SciFiNews | The Goods
Welcome
Hey SciFiFriends. This month I am doing something a little different. The first few issues of SciFiMonthly have been a total mind-dump. Maybe too much. Instead, this month I am trying a little lighter approach with only three main sections. I'll provide links to a few of my better-received stories. I will highlight a few newsworthy events in science and sci-fi from the last month. And as always, I will introduce a few of my likes and recommendations in "The Goods."
That's it.
As with anything new, we'll try this on for size. If you like the format, let me know. Want to see more/different/better content from me? Be sure and say so in the comments or send me a message here.
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Science-Fiction-Create Recap
May was a busy month here at Science-Fiction-Create. My goal has been to share stories that cover a full breadth of science and science fiction topics. I've settled into a good routine:
Free stories every Friday.
Subscriber-only content on Mondays.
SciFiMonthly newsletter at the beginning of the month.
Occasional SciFiNews stories as cool things happen.
Here are a few highlights from this last month:
For Mother's Day, I shared a story on why the films Alien and Aliens are arguably the perfect tribute to hard-working moms everywhere. Sure, these fright-fests are not for everyone. But they are two of the best films ever made - not just the best sci-fi-horror movies made. If you can handle the scares and gore, find a copy of each and watch both back-to-back. You won't be disappointed.
For subscribers, I shared an anecdote on star-gazing with my son from our roof here in SoCal. It was a magical experience; one of those father-son moments that makes life worth living. If you are curious about my subscriber-only content, send me a note, and I'll give you a link to this one, on the house. Better still, join now and get all my stories any time you want.
May started with SciFiMonthly No. 3. Yes, it was a lot. But if you haven't taken the time, do have a look. I share a summary of my "brand" and detail how I use Substack, my website, and social media. I also had a few sweet recommendations in "The Goods" you don't want to miss.
There wasn't much news-worthy science last month, was there? Well, unless you count the SpaceX-NASA launch of the Crew Dragon DM-2 on May 30th. Holy smokes that was huge. The event inspired me all week right down to launch day...both launch days. It was a significant event for all humanity. As my buddy, Andy, shared, "So great to have something so positive and future-oriented to be uniting us globally." Agreed, my friend.
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More in SciFiNews
The hottest story in film right now: Tom Cruise will star in the first film shot aboard the International Space Station. That's right; Tom Cruise gets to go to space to make a freakin’ movie. Tamping down my overwhelming jealousy, I'd say this is one of the coolest things ever. It means that space is that much more accessible. When a movie star blasts into orbit, all of humanity is one step closer to the stars.
In last week's Science, Prof. John E. Dowling summarized the state of the science of restoring sight to the blind. Everything from retinal transplants to gene therapy is transforming how we approach the science of vision. And with the advent of retinal prosthetic devices, yet another line between human and machine is blurred.
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The Goods
Each month I share a few of my likes as a fan of science, sci-fi, horror, and art.
Books - Star Wars – The Mandalorian Armor (Book 1 of The Bounty Hunter Wars) by K.W. Jeter. 1998. Available from Del Rey. "He's the most feared and successful bounty hunter in the galaxy. He is Boba Fett, and even the most hardened criminals tremble at his name. Now he faces the deadliest challenge of his infamous career--an all-out war against his most dangerous enemies." Why I like it: Okay, I'm a Star Wars fan. Maybe you aren't, and that's fine. But if you have even a passing interest in this galaxy far, far, away, then you know the name, Boba Fett. And you probably think he died in Return of the Jedi (ROTJ). News flash - he didn't die! Boba Fett will make a return in the upcoming Season 2 of The Mandalorian television series this fall, events of which take place five years after ROTJ. Want to know how Fett survived? Read this book and the other two in the trilogy, Slave Ship and Hard Merchandise. Written by the father of "steampunk," Jeter has a stark and relentless writing style. Not just for Star Wars geeks - these are good stories for any sci-fi fan.
Independent Film - Greywood's Plot (2019) by Josh Stifter (with Daniel Degnan), Flush Studios. From their website: "After finding a tape of what appears to be a monster, two friends journey into the woods to uncover if the video was a hoax." Why I like it: I was invited last night to a private online screening of this film. It's a campy but dark, black & white homage to "creature in the woods" horror films. Josh wrote, stars and directs - and does most everything else. It's a labor of love, and the result is admirable. He generates real suspense, and the filming and effects are just plain fun. The film is a surprising tale of friendship, and it takes an unexpected turn down a dark and twisted path in the last act. If you've never watched a low budget, talented, independent filmmaker at work, check out the trailer here. Josh is hoping to have it released on Amazon by July 4th.
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That's a wrap for this month's SciFiMonthly. Thanks to all for reading my stuff and sharing my stories. Stay tuned this month for more Science-Fiction-Create content.
SciFiMonthly No. 3
In this month’s issue:
Welcome | JROBERTCLARK.COM Primer | Paid Content Update | Writing Projects | Making Stuff | Social Media | The Goods
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Welcome to the May edition of the SciFiMonthly newsletter. Check out the new branding! I made several changes both here and throughout my website. Take a closer look.
It's hard to believe I've been officially at this for over three months. I'm in a comfortable groove now – writing, making, and sharing via my blog and newsletter. I'm also learning a great deal about web design, social media, and content creation/management. All this translates into quality, accessible stories for you.
Enjoying what I write and make? Please spread the word about Science-Fiction-Create.
Now for some news and updates. Do read through to the end - I have some new recommendations in "The Goods" that I know you'll enjoy.
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My content and how I share it has evolved in these last few months. With anything that grows organically, things can get a little confusing. Recognizing this, I wanted to share how my website and support services integrate.
First, a note on branding Yep, I am building a brand. Sounds corporate, doesn't it? That much I don't like. But the truth is brands are important for maintaining user confidence, building loyalty.
You, as a consumer, need to know what to expect from me. And I, as a writer and maker, need to create fun and stimulating content to earn your loyalty. My brand is central to this, providing a consistent and recognizable style and voice. Above all, my brand should spell quality. Am I there? Not hardly. But I am well on my way, thanks again to supporters like you.
The elements of my brand, as of now
Who I am: J Robert Clark – Writer. Maker. Scientist.
Brand name: J ROBERT CLARK - Science. Fiction. Create.
Alternate brand names: JROBERTCLARK.COM or Science-Fiction-Create
Tag line: Exploring the art and science of science fiction.
Social media: @SciFiCreate
Blog: The Science-Fiction-Create Blog
Newsletter: SciFiMonthly and SciFiNews
Favicon/Logo: "JRC" in orange with black background
Downloads: Notes from The Lab – a Science-Fiction-Create Publication (coming this month – see below!)
On the web
The main hub This of course is my website, JROBERTCLARK.COM. Here you will find most of my content as well as relevant info such as my bio, examples of my writing, and maker projects. This newsletter and my blog are both found here. Also, important links to contact me and to sign up for my content are found on my site. Anyone new to J ROBERT CLARK can go to my website to learn almost all there is to know about me and what I do.
Subscriber Services I manage my email lists, signups and most paid content using JROBERTCLARK.SUBSTACK.COM. Substack is a subscriber service that connects creatives with audiences like you. I use Substack because it takes the guesswork out of managing subscriptions. As a content consumer, you can trust Substack to protect your information. All direct-to-email content and duplicate content archives are accessible here. Paid subscription posts and stories are all on Substack.
Social media I manage most all my social media accounts using @SciFiCreate. I'm currently on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, all under this name. And I'm on LinkedIn under JROBERTCLARK. Of these, I've been most successful on Twitter, building a following here while enjoying the community. I post news on all four and plan to work on building community in each as time allows.
Other stuff I’ve recently started a Medium page using my social media name @SciFiCreate. Much like Substack, Medium is a powerful tool to share creative content. I've only begun to dabble here, simply re-posted a couple of my more popular stories as a test. Not sure how this fits into all I do yet, but I will continue to explore options. Lastly, I am using Buy Me A Coffee as an added way for patrons to support my work. It's a wonderful tool for colleagues, friends, and readers to say thank you by making a one-time payment. This virtual "cup of coffee" is a pat on the back and an easy gesture to make. Thanks to my friends who've already "bought me a cup."
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It's always hard talking about money. And it's even harder right now when so many are struggling. But I like everyone else have to make a living somehow. Fortunately, Substack's explanation saves me the burden of arguing this myself:
- "We believe that writers, bloggers, thinkers, and creatives of every background should be able to pursue their curiosity, generating income directly from their own audiences and on their own terms…Readers win, too. By opting into direct relationships with writers, we can be more selective with how we consume information, honing in on the ideas, people, and places we find most meaningful." ~substack.com*
Now, let me be clear that I am still committed to writing free weekly stories. This newsletter and other updates remain free. So is my blog. I am creating things that are important to share, no matter what. As for giving stuff away, I still do that too. All of it. If you like my content but are on a limited budget (e.g., a student or retired), let me know. I'm more than happy to share complete access to my content with anyone, not just those who can afford it.
That said, if you can pay, please do upgrade your membership now. Check out all the extras you get with a paid subscription here. I'm adding new content weekly, so don't miss out on all there is available at JROBERTCLARK.COM.
One final note on paid subscriptions: As an introductory offer, I am making my SciFi Insider membership available at $100. As a SciFi Insider, you get lifetime free access to my online content. That's right; for the price of a two-year membership, you get a lifetime subscription. Help me get this SciFi rocket off the ground by becoming a SciFi Insider. This offer expires on June 1st, so please don't delay. The countdown has begun!
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Non-Fiction I have honed my blog to be about science and science fiction. One of my favorite topics is writing about how science fiction makes me feel. I find a lot of hope in these stories, even the darker ones. They remind me that the future holds promise. Of course, there's loads of peril down the road, and sci-fi highlights that well. But this genre, even at its darkest, can be a warning and not a premonition. There's time still to get things right, and science fiction at its best highlights this. I like this view and will expand on it in upcoming posts.
I also have been writing more about my life and experiences. My recent paid subscriber story on "black boxes" is a good example. Cracking open complex "mysteries" and learning how these work is a passion of mine. What I often learn is things are less complicated than they appear. And even when they are involved, there are still manageable ways to understand them. My upcoming paper series "Notes from The Lab" explores black box topics in depth.
In these occasional downloadable PDFs, I dig into black boxes to explain how stuff works. Subjects will include everything from science to writing to art. Some will be how to's where I guide readers through the process of making or doing something fun. Others will be informative, unpacking thick subjects in manageable and understandable ways. Annual subscribers/SciFi Insiders will have complete access to the full list of these offerings.
Fiction Speaking of fiction, the quest to write my own fiction continues. My two projects – "Somewhere East of Barstow" and "The Botanist" have both changed since I started. I've refined my taste and style in these last three months, and it has altered my writing in surprising ways.
"Barstow" was shaping up to be a pretty dark trilogy owing to my fascination with dystopian themes. But our current pandemic has left me with an altered perspective. Don't get me wrong; I still love the dark and bleak. But I am finding an opportunity to establish my voice in these first stories. And my voice is shaping up to be more optimistic than I expected.
"The Botanist," as you might recall, is a fictional horror story set on an unnamed tropical island. This story remains the same, only making it darker. Very dark. But it's that delicious kind of dark full of just deserts and all that. Stay tuned – release date sooner than later.
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Finally, I've released my second portfolio page on my website. Here I detail making a custom Arduino microcontroller board. While this sounds pretty nerdy – and it is – the outcome turned out surprisingly elegant. Instead of a printed circuit board, I tied together the components using intricate wiring. The result was far more aesthetically pleasing than I expected. I am pleased to showcase this little piece of working art. Check it out here.
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The big news with social media this last month was the launch of The Twilight Zone Watch Parties. The first one was a great success, and I look forward to the next parties on May 6th and May 13th. We are watching episodes 29, 30, and 31 on the same date and time they aired in 1960. I'm not only a sci-fi fan but also a big fan of history and nostalgia – so this checks all the boxes for me. I hope you will join us for the next parties, details here.
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Each month I share a few of my likes as a fan of science, sci-fi, horror, and art.
Books Unstoppable – Harnessing Science to Change the World by Bill Nye. 2015. Available from St. Martin's Griffins, Publishing. "Unstoppable is what you get when you melt down Bill Nye the Science Guy and turn him into a book. Containing rich scientific insights on ourselves, our society, and our world, the book is a must-read for anybody who needs to be scientifically literate in the 21st century. And that's of course, everybody." ―Neil deGrasse Tyson, Ph.D., Astrophysicist at the American Museum of Natural History. Why I like it: Dr. Tyson sums it up well, but I'll reiterate here – this book spells out in plain English why science literacy is vital. We need concrete ways to sort through the noise to focus on facts that will save us from ourselves. If you need a reason why look to our current pandemic. Facts save lives. Science saves lives. As much as I love science fiction, my heart and mind are always rooted in science fact. Bill Nye does a better job than anyone in sharing this timely and urgent message. Read this book and do as Bill Nye asks of us: Embrace science. Solve problems. Make things. Change the world.
Podcasts/YouTube Monster Movie Happy Hour - online horror reviews and entertainment by David Geister, Mary Challman, and Scott Chesebrough. From their website: "The Monster Movie Happy Hour (Dave, Mary, and Scott) are just three folks from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, sharing life's greatest gifts - Cocktails & Horror Films! Why I like it: Dave, Mary, and Scott are three professional history buffs who love horror. They share their unique brand of reviews, cocktail recommendations, and humor via their podcast and YouTube channel. The trio is currently creating the pre-party drink/food recommendations for The Twilight Zone Watch Parties. You can see them in action for our upcoming party Wednesday night. And do check out their other stuff too. Dave is an amazing historical painter, Scott is a monster enthusiast and model builder, and Mary is raising a lamb in her home during the quarantine. I'm sure there's a lot more going on with these smart horror fans. Visit their website here.
Maker stuff Heathkit - DIY electronics kits. From their website: "We are product fanatics. Our goal is to improve your life by helping you build the complex products you use daily. You'll learn how they work, and be able to fix and change them yourself. We design great products, you can be pleased to own, and proud you made." Why I like it: Heathkit conjures up serious nostalgia for me. But mostly, I like the philosophy of making and fixing my electronics. Heathkit perfected the DIY electronics kit back in the day. This company had its heyday in the 1960s when kit building was an affordable way to get electronics. Many do-it-yourselfers constructed their own home electronics using Heathkit. Today, the HeathKit Company is a rebirth of the old company that folded years ago. While remarkably like the old HeathKit, the product line is limited. That said, what they make is of great quality. I recently put together one of the new AM Radio kits, and it is a thing of beauty. I highly recommend Heathkit to anyone interested in getting their feet wet in kit building. Check out HeathKit here.
That's a wrap for the SciFiMonthly newsletter. Thanks for signing up. Please share and encourage others to check out my stuff.
Now for a little SciFiNews from Science-Fiction-Create
In this news update: Twilight Zone Watch Party | Paid Subscriptions info
TOMORROW NIGHT! #TwilightZoneWatchParty
A quick reminder that tomorrow night, April 29th at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT, we are having our first-ever Twilight Zone Watch Party. I do hope you’ll join us.
The festivities start at 9:45 PM ET/6:45 PM PT with a debut video on YouTube by my friends at Monster Movie Happy Hour! Dave, Mary, and Scott have pulled together a fabulous drink and appetizer recommendation for our mid-century watch party.
I was privileged to see a sneak preview of their show. It’s a “scream” and will set the stage for a great party. Gentlemen put on a skinny black tie. And ladies, maybe a string of pearls. Or don’t bother and just come as you are – it’s a virtual watch party after all. Any way you dress, you’ll be sure to have a blast with us!
Details:
April 29th – Wednesday – Episode 29 “Nightmare as a Child” (original air date April 29th, 1960 - 60 YEARS AGO TO THE DAY) and Episode 64 “Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up?” (original air date May 26th, 1961).
The Twilight Zone is available in several formats. Streaming: CBS All Access (recommended; all episodes available with subscription); Amazon, Hulu, and Netfix (episodes available to rent or buy). Check your preferred provider for more options. Physical media: Several Blue Ray, DVD, and VHS sets are out there.
Monster Movie Happy hour debuts their Twilight Zone Episode on YouTube at 9:45 PM ET/6:45 PM PT. Start Episode 29 at 10:00 PM ET and Episode 64 at 11:00 PM ET. In between, we will be tweeting and discussing The Twilight Zone and MMHH’s cocktail and food!
Tweet along using #TwilightZoneWatchParty
Hope to see you there!
AND NOW, SOME IMPORTANT NEWS FROM SCIENCE-FICTION-CREATE
It’s official: Paid Subscriber options are now available at Science-Fiction-Create. Be one of the first to read subscriber-only stories like Go ahead, open that black box just released today. Not a subscriber? Want to upgrade to paid content? Click here.
Thanks to all who have contributed, making Science-Fiction-Create possible.
Until next time. Science. Fiction. Create.
JRC
No. 2
In this month’s issue:
Welcome | The art and science of science fiction | Making Stuff | The Goods
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A big thank you to all who've signed up at JROBERTCLARK.COM or more recently at jrobertclark.substack.com. Regardless of where you register, you'll receive this monthly newsletter, as well as my weekly blog posts right in your email inbox.
As you might have gathered, Substack is a means for writers and makers like me to share content directly with others. I have worked to integrate this service with my existing website, where all my stuff continues to be available. On JROBERTCLARK.COM, I'd say the user experience is better. I put a lot of thought and care into the fonts, colors, and formatting there. On Substack, I have very little of this control. But what it lacks in customization, it more than makes up for in making my content widely available.
Remember, there are options, so engage how you like.
- Read my content as it comes to you in your email inbox
- Click on the article title to view on Substack
- Or click the link I provide to view content at JROBERTCLARK.COM
My goal is to share exciting stories that keep you engaged and share these in a way that is accessible and enjoyable.
Please let me know what works for you…and what doesn't. I am open to suggestions and encouraged by any feedback you are willing to give. Go ahead, send me a note here.
The art and science of science fiction
(Back to Contents)Maybe you've noticed that I've tightened the reins on what I am writing. My first posts involved a lot of experimentation as I worked to find my focus. Now I am almost exclusively sharing stories on science fiction and related matters. I don't want it too restrained, but I am trying to emphasize how sci-fi has influenced me over the years and how science fiction is worth a look, no matter your interests.
Here is a general road map for what you can continue to expect:
- Science Fiction Nuts and Bolts – Stories on what sci-fi is with examples from print, television, and movies. Example: Science fiction is reality-bending, genre-defying, storytelling
- Sci-fi Philosophy – examinations of the human condition through the lens of science fiction. Example: Watch out! Kids on bikes
- Sci-fi Lite – recommendations and anecdotes intended to get you reading and watching science fiction. Example: Enough with the doom and gloom - here's a top ten list of feel-good sci-fi flicks to brighten things up
- My Sci-fi – original fiction I create as well as discussions on my works in progress (WIPs). Example: Now for something different – notes on Somewhere East of Barstow
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As promised, The Lab has been finally updated with my first portfolio page on Jabba's Palace. If you haven't seen it yet, do check it out on my website. I am working on a few other project pages too and these will be released in the coming weeks.
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Let me reiterate for the newcomers out there. I am not a critic. But I do watch, read and look at stuff as much as I can. This section I am calling "The Goods" is where I share my likes, as a fan. Ideally, I provide a few ideas for your next read, movie night, or online foray.
New this month: I share a couple of online personalities that have helped me as I learn to navigate social media and digital content creation.
Television Tales from the Loop – Created by Nathaniel Halpern with Matt Reeves, Executive Producer. An Indio Films/Amazon Studios production. Eight part episodic series based on the artwork and book by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag. Watch now on Amazon Prime. From the synopsis on Amazon: "Tales from the Loop explores the mind-bending adventures of the people who live above the Loop, a machine built to unlock and explore the mysteries of the universe - making things previously relegated to science fiction, possible." Why I like it: I stumbled on Stålenhag's artwork several years ago and have been looking forward to this show ever since. You might have seen the art – hyper-realistic landscapes/cityscapes with futuristic machines dominating otherwise conventional imagery. The feeling is at once familiar and unsettling. ‘The Loop blends aspects of The Twilight Zone and Cold War Era period drama with stunning visuals and surreal suspense. Taking place in a fictional small town in Ohio in what feels like the seventies or eighties, the sets bring to mind the former Soviet Union, not small-town America. Strange buildings loom in the distance, and large robots stand in the shadows, all without explanation. "The Loop" serves as the central plot element, creating fantastical circumstances and testing the inhabitants of this altered reality. The story unfolds in a non-linear way, much like the space-time disruptions caused by The Loop. Characters seem oddly accepting of these disruptions, and with the sparse dialog, glacial pace, and haunting score, all converge to create an overwhelming feeling of dread. Perhaps best of all, it's heartbreakingly real at times despite being so outlandishly science fiction. At the risk of overselling this, I think Tales from the Loop is the best science fiction anything I've experienced in a long time.
Podcasts/YouTube Rotted Reviews – Online horror film reviews by Mike Stone. Watch now on YouTube. From the Rotted Reviews YouTube page: "Welcome to RotD Entertainment! Devoted to all things related to horror: movies, tv shows, games, podcasts, etc. Please join me as we explore the wondrous and terrifying world of the macabre!" Why I like it: Yes, I’m all about sci-fi, but horror often blends with sci-fi and vice versa. Mike Stone is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about horror movies. His YouTube channel has been going for several years now, and he's earned a loyal following. And for a good reason – Mike is extremely knowledgeable and provides thoughtful insights on the history and making of horror films. Best of all, he has a comfortable on-camera presence and speaks casually without sounding scripted. Watching Rotted Reviews feels like you're sitting with a good friend, talking movies. And he's like the best kind of friend – a super fan you can hit up any time for a good recommendation. For the first taste of Rotted Reviews, check out Mike's recent video on Horror Movie Tag! - Answering Horror Movie Questions. Note: It's horror, so expect some Not Safe for Work (NSFW) content!
Writers/Bloggers Jae Hermann – Writer, storyteller and career coach. Read and watch now at jaehermann.com and realtalk.substack.com. From Jae's website: "I write about Intentional Living, Wellness & Nutrition, and Arts & Culture. I share midlife commentary, personal essays, and BTS interviews with creatives via my #RealTalk projects. I also help aspiring creative writers get out of their way to share their stories fearlessly." Why I like it: Okay, this isn’t sci-fi at all! But it is writing/creating related, so there. I first met Jae through LinkedIn, where she offered me free (and useful) advice on getting my new writing career off the ground. As a career coach, I couldn't afford her [yet], but that didn't stop Jae from helping me anyway. She's been there, providing crucial tips for getting my online presence started. She's amazing, possessing what seems like boundless optimism, she shares her uplifting spirit in well-written stories via her website and Substack. She also has a podcast and conducts interviews with other creative types. While some creators invest heavily in promoting their stuff and others quietly create, Jae takes a different route altogether – she promotes others above self and has made this into her altruistic style. I highly recommend having a look at what Jae is sharing and creating. It's liable to brighten your day.
Okay, that's a wrap on this month's newsletter. Thanks for taking the time to read and share my stuff.
Until next time, Science. Fiction. Create.
JRC
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Upate
This is an occasional mid-month update.
First, a comment on the obvious
The unprecedented events unfolding around the world are alarming. Like many of you, I am looking to cope - and fill the void.
Unproductive: I've been watching and listening to far more news than I probably should. I'm guessing you have been doing the same. Try and not let it get to you.
Productive: Reading, writing, and drawing. Spending time with my son. Riding my bike (alone) when I can. I hope you too find good things to do.
I won't pretend to be an expert. Aside from a few comments on how to fill your time, I can't give any significant advice. For that, I recommend getting information from a credible source such as the WHO, CDC, or your GP.
Godspeed. Live long and prosper. May The Force be with you.
Reading and Writing
Like many, I'm now homeschooling my son. We do the standard reading and writing, along with math, science, and social studies stuff. In the afternoons, we are learning more about story elements – characters, setting, plots, etc. He is soaking it up. It reminds me of how much joy comes from story.
As for my reading, I'm still on A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine. It's slow going at first - a lot of fabricated jargon to wrap my mind around. But that's typical of epic, world-building space operas. Martine has created a fascinating plot element in her story called an "imago" – a device containing another person's memory/consciousness that is surgically attached to a living person's brain stem. Sounds crazy but Martine deftly renders it believable. The "new" chimeric person is an embodiment of the inner struggles we all have. I'm delighted to see where this leads.
Are you looking for something a little lighter than a 500-page space opera? My most recent blog post was shared Monday. If you haven't taken a look in a while, please do. I'm frequently writing and posting stories that are readable in five minutes or less. Another installment comes out this Friday, March 20th.
Not on social media?
This "mid-month" update is in response to several followers saying they didn't know I had posted new blogs.
I share links to each post on social media. Still, if you don't subscribe to my SciFiCreate page on Facebook or follow me on LinkedIn or Twitter, then you won't receive these notices.
To circumvent this challenge, I am toying with the idea of having blog posts delivered right to subscribers' inboxes. What do you think? Send me a message here and let me know your thoughts.
Okay, that's it for this update. Do take care of yourself. Thanks for subscribing to JROBERTCLARK.COM. As always, please share and encourage others to check out my stuff. If, for any reason, you want to unsubscribe from this and other communications, send UNSUBSCRIBE to info@jrobertclark.com.
No. 1
In this month’s issue: Welcome | Gratitude | Blog Update | Writing Projects | Making Stuff | Social Media | The Goods
Welcome
(Back to Contents) Thanks for signing up at JROBERTCLARK.COM. This is my first newsletter, hence the title "No. 1." Brilliant, right?The plan (for now) is to issue a brief monthly update straight to your inbox. As promised, I won't be flooding it, though. Just this monthly letter and occasional extras. As for the format, I'll keep it simple and use my website to share these for now. The intro will show up in your inbox, and if you are so inclined, you can click through to the whole thing. I also archive these on my site so that previous news is accessible at any time.
My goal with this newsletter is to provide an insider's perspective on pretty much everything I have going on behind the scenes. Here, you'll get updates on my Works in Progress (WIP), as well as sneak, peeks on stuff coming out soon, and random free things like stories and other content. I also watch a lot of films, read and take in art of all kinds, so I will also share occasional recommendations on things I enjoy. Perhaps you will too.
Do let me know what you think. And tell me more about what you'd like to see and read.
(Back to Contents) Speaking of YOU – I could not have made this life change without the vital support many of you have shown. Sure, taking this leap to be a full-time writer and maker took a lot. And yes, I feel pretty badass in being able to say this. But the thing is, I'd never would've had the guts to do this without a great deal of external support.
This support has come in many forms: Kind words from a few loyal friends. Unconditional love from my parents. A long-distance hug from my sister. Exuberant kudos from a cousin. A nod of approval from a respected mentor. My son telling me how good my stories are (even when they aren't).
Each has stood by me in this. And others too.
So, a heartfelt thank you to every one of you for this much-needed pat on the back.
(Back to Contents) I hope you have been enjoying my blog. I certainly am having fun writing it.
Yes, it's all over the place, and even the "voice" I use changes. Right now, I am treating it as a bit of a sandbox - testing ideas and experimenting with content and style. Heck, I even wrote a poem. How's that for experimentation?
Writing is coming easy, as of now. I look forward to sitting down every chance I get and just writing. Conservatively, I am drafting about 1000 words a day, as I had hoped. Not all of that goes out, of course. But it is thoroughly enjoyable creatively writing each day, more so than I had even expected. The blog is a great way to throw some of this out there and see what sticks.
As natural as writing is for me, sharing myself is not. But the blog is forcing me to open up and be vulnerable. The result has been pleasantly cathartic.
The goal is to get a meaningful post out every five to six days. I might try cutting back on the storytelling some in favor of more random musings. Perhaps a bit shorter each time as well.
If you haven't seen my recent posts, do take the time and check out what I've shared. And on request, I will be opening up comments for now. Other bloggers and writers have had mixed success with feedback, and many seem to turn them off again as readership increases (trolls come out of the woodwork, unfortunately). But for now, let's see how it goes. Feel free to comment on the page, or you can email (info@jrobertclark.com) at any time.
(Back to Contents) Interviews I am happy to report that I conducted my first formal interview last week. I had the pleasure of sitting down with a well-known theologian to discuss his faith and views on preserving nature. Not what you expected for my first interview? Me either, but it really makes a lot of sense in hindsight.
I'm experimenting with the loose connection here of "Alternate Realities." A theologian's take on things is different from my own. And so will be the worldview of the respected but controversial scientist/author/photographer I am interviewing next. Alternate Realities speaks to the different ways in which we each perceive and interact with the world. It also has classic sci-fi connotations suggesting parallel dimensions and all that. At the very least, I am getting to speak with some remarkable people, who'll share thoughts I might not otherwise get to hear. That's cool and also the foundation for excellent character development in my fiction work.
If you know of anyone who'd make for a great interview, please let me know. Perhaps even you?
Nonfiction I am toying with a few ideas related to my “past life” as a scientist and conservationist. Contrary to what I might have portrayed, I have not given up on this entirely. I understand environmental challenges well and have deep care and love for our natural world. It would be a shame to walk away from this entirely. I want to continue to give back, and ideally, my writing will be how I do this. More on this soon, I hope.
Fiction Somewhere East of Barstow is finally taking shape. This story will be a trio of short stories centered on an "unexplained event" that takes place outside of Needles, California, in the late 1950s. Each story unfolds as a single day in each of three towns – Needles, Amboy and Ludlow – and each in a different time period. Right now, these being the late 1950s when the "event" happens, the present day, and finally, an as-yet-undetermined time in the future. I am toying with the idea that each story will also be a different but compatible genre with the opener being a classic sci-fi tale, the present-day being a noir/mystery piece, and the future scenario a dark comedy. Or not. We'll see as the actual writing unfolds.
I am also working on another unrelated fictional story. This one, I am calling "The Botanist." It's a short horror story about an arrogant academic on an expedition to a remote oceanic island. For those who know me, you know that I did my share of botanical field research in the remote Pacific. But the protagonist here takes my arrogance and amplifies it tenfold. At least I hope it's not a story about me because this guy is a real dick. Anyway, it is so much fun to write – I hope it turns out as fun to read.
(Back to Contents) The Lab has been rather quiet these last few weeks as I've focused mostly on writing. But I will soon be sharing a few projects I completed recently. One is a diorama of Jabba the Hutt's Palace from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. I built it to scale for the 3.75" action figures my son, and I are so fond of collecting. It was a Christmas gift to him, but he still lets me play with it.
It turned out quite well and is visually similar to the vintage toy line. The playable features include a working dungeon door for the rancor, a trap door that Jabba uses to drop visitors to their doom and LED backlighting throughout to make it all just look groovy. Editing pics now and creating a portfolio page under The Lab tab on my website. Look for it soon.
(Back to Contents) Man, it's hard out there – and social media is a real pain. That so, I have dug in and worked to build a small following on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. It's a big job to care for these social feeds. And if social media was a pet, I'm qualified right now to keep a house plant. Soon I might graduate to a fish or even a puppy. Any support you can give by following me at @SciFiCreate is appreciated (links to each at the footer of my website). And just so you know that following me is not entirely charity, I am working to share nice images and stimulating content.
(Back to Contents) I am not so full of myself to think that I should review books or movies in any serious context. I am neither qualified to be nor interested in being a critic. But I do watch a lot of movies and read as much stuff as I can. So at any given time, I stumble on things that I enjoy. Maybe you'll enjoy some of these as well.
Graphic Novels Invisible Kingdom by G Willow Wilson and Christian Ward. Volume One: Walking the Path, now available from Dark Horse Comics. From Dark Horse's synopsis: "Set in a far-flung star system, this new epic sci-fi monthly saga tells the tale of two women--a young religious acolyte and a hard-bitten freighter pilot--who separately uncover a vast conspiracy between the leader of the system's dominant religion and the mega-corporation that controls society. On the run from reprisals on both sides, this unlikely pair of rebels risk plunging the world into anarchy if they reveal the truth." Why I like it: I've only just begun reading it, but the characters are fleshed out quickly, and the story moves along well. The colors are terrific, being bright, and almost psychedelic without being distracting. A fun story combined with visually appealing art makes for a page-turner. Women kick but in it too, which is always a good thing. Give it a try if you are curious about graphic novels but turned off by more traditional comic book superhero fare. This is anything but.
Books A Memory Called Empire by Arkady Martine, available now wherever books are sold. Synopsis from the book: "Ambassador Mahit Dzmare arrives in the center of the multi-system Teixcalaanli Empire only to discover that her predecessor, the previous ambassador from their small but fiercely independent mining Station, has died. But no one will admit that his death wasn't an accident—or that Mahit might be next to die, during a time of political instability in the highest echelons of the imperial court." Why I like it: Not sure if I do yet. But it's gotten rave reviews and is one of this year's nominees for the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America Nebula Award for best novel. I'm digging in now, and if the premise sounds exciting to you too, pick up a copy and let's compare notes.
Movies Attack the Block (2011). Written and directed by Joe Cornish. Available to stream on Amazon and Apple. "A teen gang in South London defend their block from an alien invasion." My take: A motley crew of street thugs (led by a young John Boyega – Finn from the recent Star Wars films, Episodes 7-9), take on snarling, beast-like aliens that rocket to Earth as asteroids. Watching Boyega in the lead role here you can see why J.J. Abrams later picked him to star in his Star Wars reboot. (The astute fan will find at least one Easter Egg/nod to Attack the Block in The Force Awakens). Why I like it: While the premise seems out there, and it is, the movie is fast-paced, filled with plenty of laughs as well as scares, and is well-acted and directed. It also has some great social commentary on race, class and privilege that makes you think. That said, it mostly doesn't feel preachy, and the message never gets in the way of the good ol' alien invasion mayhem. Rated R because, well, both aliens and street gangs can be brutal.
That's all for now. Thanks for signing up for this newsletter. Please share and encourage others to check out my stuff. If, for any reason, you want to unsubscribe from this and other communications, send UNSUBSCRIBE to info@jrobertclark.com.