Living in a Michael Crichton Novel

~ J.S. Pailly

Hello, friends!

I’m sorry for not having a Sciency Words post for you today.  Also, I was supposed to announce my A to Z Challenge theme earlier this week, but… well, it’s been a rough week.

Part of the problem is, of course, the coronavirus.  Right now, I feel like we’re all trapped in a Michael Crichton novel (specifically, this Michael Crichton novel).

Part of the problem is also work.  In my day job, I work for a local T.V. news station.  At times like this, working in the news business can be a mixed blessing.  On the upside, I’m still employed.  I’m still getting paid, and I can still pay my bills.  A lot of people can’t right now.  On the downside, covering a crisis like this is extremely stressful, as I’m sure you can imagine, and it has taken a real toll on me.

So as I said, it’s been a rough week.  At this point, I have to reevaluate my plans for this year’s A to Z Challenge.  In the past, I’ve picked science-heavy, research-heavy themes.  I was going to do that again this year, but given the current situation, I don’t believe I’ll have the time or energy to do the job properly.

But I still want to do something for A to Z.  So this weekend, I’m going to sit down with my muse, and we’re going to pick a new theme for this year’s challenge.  One option would be a “behind the writing” series where we’d talk about the creative process.  Another option would be a series about the Tomorrow News Network universe, where I’d introduce you to the story world I’ve created for my upcoming book series.

If you have a preference, let me know in the comments.  I’ll announce my decision on Monday.

13 thoughts on “Living in a Michael Crichton Novel”

  1. Strange and trying times. I’m lucky myself to still be employed and even luckier that I can do it working from home. Hope you’re keeping up all the defensive behaviors.

    I think either topic would be interesting. Have you considered doing a blend? Tell us some things about the TNN, then tell us about the creative processed behind those things? Just a thought?

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    1. There’d probably be a bit of crossover, whichever topic I go with. If I write about my creative process, TNN is going to serve as an example for a lot of things. And if I write about TNN, I’ll probably talk a little about the process behind my world-building. So it’s really a matter of emphasis, I guess.

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  3. TNN sounds fun. BTW, I’m a volunteer firefighter and our training says, take care of yourself and your team mates first, because if you’re hurt (or sick) you can’t help anyone else and it diverts resources to you. During the pandemic, that seems to apply to us all. Take care, and I’ll look forward to visiting your new world.

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  5. You’ve always been interesting to read. Must be difficult working at a news station in this time of crisis while most of us are tucker away in the safety of their homes. Awaiting your theme reveal.
    P.S
    I was sure you worked at NASA or a science agency.

    Liked by 2 people

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