The Hobbit – Chapter V – Riddles In The Dark

If you’re reading The Hobbit as a prequel to Lord of the Rings, this is the chapter you’re looking for.  The original version of this chapter is one of the few things by Tolkien that I’ve never read.  After writing Lord of the Rings, Tolkien rewrote much of this chapter to bring the two books…

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An Errand

Jack walked into the drug store not really remembering why he was there.  I really need to start writing stuff down, he thought.  I’m getting old, but he didn’t believe that was the reason.  He was only forty, still a little young for senility. She was at the counter again.  She was the best looking woman, or maybe girl, Jack had…

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Star Trek The Next Generation

I recently re-watched Star Trek The Next Generation (aka TNG).  I enjoyed the experience.  I hadn’t seen many of the episodes since they originally aired.  It’s interesting how differently I view the show now.  It was a formative show for me.  I was twelve when it debuted.  There was a lot that went over my head…

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The Passive Voice Should Be Appreciated

The passive voice should be appreciated.  Nay, the passive voice should be celebrated.  The tyranny of the subject is perpetuated by the active voice, but it can be stopped by the passive voice.  Objects can be accentuated, highlighted, shown off by the passive voice.  Variety is created by the passive voice.  The passive voice should…

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