Khipus – A Different Kind of Writing System

In our series “The History of Writing and Reading,” we looked at many different writing systems that developed (and sometimes died) over the milennia of human history. There is another system – perhaps better called a communication system than a writing system – that developed during the height of the Incan Empire (1400-1532). It is … Continue reading “Khipus – A Different Kind of Writing System”


Authors, Developing Words – Mickey Spillane

[Editor’s note: This post is part of a continuing series on how writers craft words to express their ideas and to connect with readers.] Mickey Spillane is regarded as one of the four “pillars” of the hard-boiled detective fiction genre, joining Dashiell Hammett (“The Maltese Falcon”), Raymond Chandler (“The Big Sleep”), and Ross MacDonald (“The … Continue reading “Authors, Developing Words – Mickey Spillane”


Authors, Developing Words – Rhett Bruno, Part 2

[Editor’s note: This post is part of a continuing series on how writers craft words to express their ideas and to connect with readers. The interview with Mr. Bruno was conducted by Miriam Ruff on June 6, 2019, and is divided in two parts. You can read Part 1 here. It has been lightly edited … Continue reading “Authors, Developing Words – Rhett Bruno, Part 2”


Authors, Developing Words – Rhett Bruno, Part 1

[Editor’s note: This post is part of a continuing series on how writers craft words to express their ideas and to connect with readers. The interview with Mr. Bruno was conducted by Miriam Ruff on June 6, 2019, and is divided in two parts. It has been lightly edited for length and clarity.] MR: Welcome to … Continue reading “Authors, Developing Words – Rhett Bruno, Part 1”