Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • For Reference

    For Reference

    Throughout this year’s travels, I’ve had a few people ask how I research historical fiction. My San Franciscan Detour was the perfect time to chronicle the process. I mean, the internet can get you far, but it’s still hard to beat the old methods: SF’s Public Library has an unscalable mountain of archives — everything from daily newspapers to fashion magazines to local advertisements.…

  • Back to Start

    Back to Start

    Canada represents an end to the madness — at least temporarily. It means no more clear oceans, palm trees, or rice paddies. I’ve traded those for rusted autumn leaves, brisk sweater weather, and a spooky Halloween. After endless swelter, that seems like a good deal. I still haven’t unpacked the lessons from this past year. And I don’t know where the…

  • Scrambled Eggs All Over My Face

    Scrambled Eggs All Over My Face

    A cold breeze rustled the ochre leaves piled along the sidewalk beside me. The wind felt good against my hot cheek, as I squinted toward the afternoon sun and continued on my tenth mile. The original intent had been a short stroll around Seattle — with barely a few hours sleep, I figured I’d tire…

  • România

    România

    Home cooked eats and loving company. How can I compare that to another place? With more family in this one nation than in the rest of the world, and the ability to fluently communicate with any strangers, I have an insider track that you’re unlikely to replicate as a tourist. But my Romania visits are never…

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