Politics and the English Language
By George Orwell Most people who bother with the matter at all would admit that the English language is in a bad way, but it is generally assumed that we…
What’s in a Book Review?
James O'Meara gives an interesting glimpse into what is possible in the realm of book reviews: I had almost reached the massive iron door, hidden behind a construction dumpster, that…
The Hidden Purpose of Hannibal Lecter
Originally published on Medium, Nov 2017. Doctor Hannibal Lecter is a cultured man, of world travel and fine taste. He has lived in Paris, in Florence, and in Buenos Aires.…
Video Games as Narrative High Art: Skyrim
I recently completed a lengthy essay on why Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim qualifies as high art and as a good story, in the classical sense. The piece is a bit…
Hamlet’s Water
Hamlet is a masterpiece of a play by any measure, but the depth of its genius eluded me until I began rereading it recently. A few of the opening passages…
Film Analysis: Apocalypse Now
I watched Apocalypse Now for the first time yesterday, and was impressed by the depth of its' exploration of morality, war, human-nature, and sanity. It may very well be among…