'Constructing consciousness out of words'
"Novelists are in the businessof constructing consciousness out of words, and that's what we all do, cradleto grave. The Self is a story we tell.” –James Gleick
Born in New York City on this date in 1954, Gleick is an author, science historian,and internet pioneer whose work has chronicled the cultural impact of moderntechnology on our lives. I firstinteracted with his work as a member of the Science Writers of America – asomewhat dubious designation for me, although I do like writing science featuresfrom time-to-time and was honored to be accepted into their clan.
Winner of many awards for his writing and critical reviews, he has been athree-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and finalist for the National BookAward for The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood. And, he holds the distinction of being the first editor of "The BestAmerican Science Writing Series."
In a feature about him, the WallStreet Journal said some writers excel at crafting a historical narrative, othersat elucidating esoteric theories, and others at humanizing scientists. Gleick, they said, is a master of all three. Gleick’s books have been translated into morethan 30 languages, his most recent being Time Travel: A History.
“Neither technology nor efficiencycan acquire more time for you,” Gleick wrote, “because time is not a thing youhave lost. It is not a thing you everhad.”
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On a side note, today's is my 4,000th post since starting this blog on Aug. 1, 2014. It's been a definite "kick start" to mywriting day. Thanks to the loyal readers who have followed since itsbeginning, and welcome to those who have recently found these posts and chosento come back for more. Cheers!
