Things you didn't know you didn't know.

I didn't know E.B. White was a man.



E. B. White

E. B. White was the author of the beloved children's book Charlotte's Web. The girl child part was written so well, was so accessible and believable, that I assumed White was a female. Silly me. A good author knows the human condition, the miniature human condition even. A good author is observant enough, intelligent enough, empathetic enough, to write any part, if they are willing to go there.

I also did not know this White was the same White that co-authored The Elements of Style.

See, you CAN learn something new everyday! You just have to try.

I need a copy of The Elements of Style.






Mr. White was seems to have been an introvert too.

Most of us, out of a politeness made up of faint curiosity and profound resignation, go out to meet the smiling stranger with a gesture of surrender and a fixed grin, but White has always taken to the fire escape. He has avoided the Man in the Reception Room as he has avoided the interviewer, the photographer, the microphone, the rostrum, the literary tea, and the Stork Club. His life is his own. He is the only writer of prominence I know of who could walk through the Algonquin lobby or between the tables at Jack and Charlie's and be recognized only by his friends.

— James Thurber, E. B. W., "Credos and Curios"

And now for something slightly different, I have decided I should read some current science fiction magazines.

I've never enjoyed writing short stories. They are an effort for me. The one college level course I've took that required me to write short stories was difficult; I feel like I have to make the story instead of the story making itself.  I just don't enjoy the short story form. I've never had characters come to me in snack sizes. My characters invite me in for five course meals. But I think I ought to at least try short stories.

I'm going to start with one magazine. I've ordered a six month subscription to Asimov's Science Fiction.