POTPOURRI AND OTHER RANK ESOTERICA

China Mieville

I just finished reading China Mieville's newest book - "this census-taker".  It is excellent.  The first Mieville book I read was a few years ago - "Embassytown", and I was hooked.  I am fascinated by linguistics and I could see that China shared my obsession.  Especially in "Embassytown", but continuing throughout his work. He shows how communication is tenuous, how zenophobia can develop so easily from mere misunderstanding.  How true understanding is almost impossible.  How Humankind has to accept The Other on faith alone. Not faith in a God, faith in Self.  I went on to read:  "Kraken", "Railsea", "Perdido Street Station", and "three moments of an explosion".  When I began reading Mievelle was the first I heard of the term 'Steampunk'.  His current newest novel, I recommend to all writers, especially to those who worship tradition and believe that writing requires a lot of rules.