Listening News

First, an apology to the author of ‘Life Sentence’. I realy disliked the character and could not imagine how Anne Stringer was going to hang a series on him. I understand the collection better after listening to another episode. The theme of the Amarant involves various perspectives on immortality. Of course, not everyone would enjoy endless life, but the author was very effective in portraying one of the worst attitudes one could have towards it.  I still can’t say that I enjoyed the story, but with my new understanding I can appreciate the talent that went into creating it.

“No World for Warriors” is a thoughtful examination of the warrior mentality and the futility of immortality. The author, Matt Wallace, clearly understands the military and the difference between a warrior and a soldier. As a vet myself, I can tell you that not even every soldier understands this. U.S. Marine Drill Instructors will compare their methods to the Spartans, seeming to forget the slavery, homosexuality, and dependence on religious omens at the core of the Spartan ethos. The futility in this story and in ‘Life Sentence’ seems to stem from the lack of growth these immortals suffer. One of the reasons I reacted so negatively to the character in ‘Sentence’ was his self-pitying paralysis. The warrior here at least realizes that he needs change, and sees some of his fellows as role models, whether or not he actualy can.

The podcast is narrated by Rick Stringer whose voice is fitting to the material. Athough I generaly prefer a straight reading, the soundtrack is also well done.