Forms of Conflict, Part 4: Man vs. Nature

We have discussed the definition of conflict and how to build it as well as three of the four forms of conflict: Man vs. Society, Man vs. Self, and Man vs. Man. There was an intermission to discuss some details pertinent to the first two conflict types. These pieces were inspired by a conversation I…

Reposted: Dominic’s 3 Laws of Using Religion in your Fiction Novel (+ Bonus Law)

Sorry, readers, but I ran out of energy and did not have a post prepared for today. In lieu of the next installment in this series on conflict, I have linked to a post on LegendFiction, a very interesting site with a lot to recommend it. The post is on the site owner's "3 Laws…

More Book Recommendations

I am back with another list of recommended books! Foxfier’s list of suggestions still has me thinking, readers. We are told that people do not read anymore, and to some degree, that might be true. But it is difficult to find any interesting novels to read these days. Unless you trust someone else’s recommendation or…

Bulletin: The Best of the Planetary Anthology Series is ALIVE!!!!

Whew! Apologies for the late alert, readers. It has been a bit of a zoo behind the scenes here at A Song of Joy. So many projects, so little time…. The Planetary Anthology Series, as many of you may know, became defunct last year as a print and ebook series. You can still purchase the…

Bulletin: Introducing Postcards from Mars!

Ahem. Introducing for your enjoyment, Postcards from Mars! Each of the 50 word stories herein has a tale inspired by a piece of art that is also included in the collection. MidJourney and other art AI bots are producing fruit in multiple ways, and this anthology is one exhibit of how artists are adapting to…

A Reflection on Philip K. Dick’s Writings

An interesting read for sure. And since it is a piece from Voyage Comics and Publishing, don’t forget to check out this affiliate link for their Finnian and the Seven Mountains comics*, readers. Just like an Amazon Affiliate link, when you make a purchase through this, I receive a commission from Voyage Comics at no…

In rebus gustum, non potest esse disputandum de ad libros

With thanks to Foxfier’s guest post here for the inspiration for the title, which translates to: “In matters of taste, there can be no debate with regard to books.” Although I am not one to publish “listicles,” as Foxfier mentioned in her own post, certain lists have been making the rounds. These say that X…

Review: White Ops by Declan Finn

Whew! Apologies for the delayed review, readers. It’s been a busy time and I had to read this work in between breaks. Yes, it’s been that type of busy behind the scenes here at A Song of Joy and I am ashamed to say it has prevented me from reading and reviewing the early copy…

Reposted – Orwell and Lewis: The Supernatural Keeps Breaking In

This piece by Mr. John C. Wright was too good to pass up, readers. Enjoy! Orwell and Lewis: The Supernatural Keeps Breaking In A longtime reader with the Latinate yet indecipherable name of Nostreculsus,  while discussing THAT HIDEOUS STRENGTH by C.S. Lewis, writes: George Orwell reviewed Mr. Lewis’ book, with great appreciation of the concept,…

A Word from John C. Wright

Busy week, readers. I'll be back soon, I hope. Until then, enjoy Mr. Wright's post! Science Fantasy We all know the difference between fantasy and science fiction. Fantasy has witches and wizards with magic powers, whereas in science fiction the exact same character doing the exact same thing is called a psychic or psionicist. Fairy…