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James Hart's avatar

Great job, Justin. I really like de-industrial stories done with some thought and consideration behind them (without sounding like a research paper of course). What I found so hopeful about the end was the fact that it didn't require too much outside agency in the form of big hero energy; the hope was inherent in the people. I think that's largely how it works.

Justin Patrick Moore's avatar

James, thank you for taking the time to read, as always.

I hadn’t really thought about big hero energy or the lack of it, in this, but you are right. It is one I toyed with a bit in a few different versions, then kept in a digital desk drawer for awhile.

What you say about consideration: I like to think of the world I am creating in fiction, but without spending too much time world building: there needs to be enough scaffolding for the reader, but not too much that it is distracting, i.e., a research paper (that’s for my nonfiction!)

Josh Datko's avatar

I have this saved for later! I liked your other de industrialized stuff you sent me.

Justin Patrick Moore's avatar

No worries. I have to catch up as well. Been hella busy at home with family, friends, etc. and summer fun and projects, and now back to work, where I guess I can’t spend all my time reading subslack. But I am a slacker… so I will get to your recent posts too.

Thank you for the kind words about my other stories…

I keep hearing something about Wet Hot Ghazal Summer. IDK what that’s all about, except I might have to learn to write a ghazal.

Josh Datko's avatar

The right music is needed I think to set the mood for a ghazal. I was listening to Pearl Diver music from Bahrain and I felt that helped!

Justin Patrick Moore's avatar

Interesting... I just read a few examples, so will be giving it a shot. Music can definitely help or hinder. I like the form.

Josh Datko's avatar

My record club had it’s first meeting yesterday. It was a great group! So many physical media fans in a room together.

I was heavily recommend Andre 3000’s experimental flute album.

I haven’t heard it, but on vibes alone, that to me is the perfect of example of music that can “help or hinder.” :)

Justin Patrick Moore's avatar

New Blue Sun, is that the one? I need to listen to it again… I listened to it once or twice from the library … I remember liking what I heard. Maybe it is time, once again, to go deeper.

Josh Datko's avatar

Yeah! That’s it.

Caroline Elizabeth's avatar

I always appreciate a good Deindustrial future story, especially one that doesn't end in tragedy. Nice job!

Justin Patrick Moore's avatar

Thank you for stopping by to read. I really appreciate it. All the tragedy happened in the middle, so it needed something good to happen.