links for 2008-12-14

"Relatively regularly these days there are calls for a Manhattan or Apollo style project to address our energy challenges. While this may sound good, it’s worth considering what such a project would actually mean."

"For a while now, I’ve been working on various theories regarding magic systems. There’s a lot to consider here. As a writer, I want a system that is fun to write. As a reader, I want something that is something fun to read. As a storyteller, I want a setting element that is narratively sound and which offers room for mystery and discovery. A good magic system should both visually appealing and should work to enhance the mood of a story. It should facilitate the narrative, and provide a source of conflict. "