Is this the Digital Dark Age? I gave a talk last week called Is This The Digital Dark Age? I’ve blogged previously about public speaking, imposter syndrome and coping with nerves and I’m still going out there and giving it a go. During the hour before, my nerves were certainly jangling, but once I was … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 52
The Declaration of Arbroath As I’ve blogged previously, I like to go and visit places and see things that are on show. I especially like anything historical. My first degree is in history and my passion for the subject has been lifelong. I enjoy all periods, but I’m particularly keen on Scottish history throughout the … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 51
CODI and other news Tickets for my cyber security themed show for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe have gone on sale here This is hosted as part of the Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas. For details on CODI please see part 13 and part 48 of this series of blog posts. It’s taking place in the New … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 50
Ukulele In part 29 of this series I mentioned my passion for electronica and hardware synths. I also play guitar, bass and piano. However, recently, my favourite instrument and the one I am picking up every day is the Ukulele. I started dabbling with it a few years ago with a Soprano, which is the … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 49
CODI Revisited I’m a member of the Cabaret of Dangerous Ideas. This is a public engagement forum where Academics and Researchers talk about their work to the public and take questions. No slides or notes are allowed and it is performed in stand-up mode. Props, the more naff the better, are allowed. I was on … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 48
Algorithm I started writing out the first draft of a new novella called Algorithm this week. I’m confident this title will make it all the way to the cover and then publication. I didn’t set out to start this particular story, but I was needing something to give myself a break from going through the … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 47
Blood I donated blood this week. I appreciate not everyone is able to, but if you can I would encourage you to do so. You never know when you, a family member or friend may require some. The chat with the nursing staff is always entertaining. They make you feel at ease and once you … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 46
Imposter Syndrome The feeling of being an imposter is something that many people from all backgrounds and experiences have to deal with. You find yourself doubting your abilities and questioning when successful, that you don’t really deserve that success and the praise that comes with it. Many find it hard to accept what they achieve … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 45
Books into Films A recent television adaptation of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens has ignited the debate once more over whether a television program or film based on a book should remain faithful to the story. This got me thinking. I imagine most authors dream of having their book made into a film. It’s a … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 44
Saying no It’s been a busy week. I gave a lecture on Ransomware as part of my weekly cycle of cyber security awareness talks. These last an hour and although I have a plan of what I need to cover, due to the fast-changing nature of cyber, when I repeat these sessions there is also … More Inside the Fiction Factory – Part 43
The Fiction Factory 