Current projects
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The Archipelago
Filed under: The Poison SkyCONTINUE READING: The ArchipelagoMy fantasy novel A Philosophy of Air boasts a deep, richly-built world and history. Today I introduce the setting.
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The importance of theme: what your story’s (really) about?
Filed under: The Poison SkyCONTINUE READING: The importance of theme: what your story’s (really) about?Your story isn’t about what it’s about. Plot simply relates what happens, but a story is really about theme: about an underlying argument and message.
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Naturalistic fantasy: a light touch for weighty tales
CONTINUE READING: Naturalistic fantasy: a light touch for weighty talesWhat is “naturalistic fantasy?” How does it differ from existing fantasy sub-genres? And how can it change what a fantasy story can deliver?
My story…
I’m sometimes asked what seems to me a question with an obvious answer: “what’s the connection between writing, programming, and product management?” In one form or another, I’ve practiced all three of these disciplines throughout my career, so of course I see the through-line. I love words and I love solving problems.
A computer programmer and an author do the same job: they solve a hard problem by connecting related components using words and a clear narrative. A product manager solves the problem that comes before, identifying which problem needs to be solved.
M.A. Tanenbaum
Writer, Engineer & Product Manager