Interviews

When it comes to science fiction, Harlan Ellison is a living legend who wrote, and fought, his way to the top. He's known for being abrasive, cantankerous, and he's just as well known for being proud of that assessment. This is a man who not only sued AOL and the guy who posted his stories on AOL without authorization, his lawsuit was successful.

So Maria Langer, the author of over 70 books on using technology, posted this video on her blog. It's Mr. Ellison talking about the importance of paying writers. As you'd expect, he's vocal about getting paid for his work, and why not? It's his work and don't you get paid for yours? Be prepared for colourful language, invective, and righteous indignation.

In other words, be prepared for Harlan Ellison being himself and telling you exactly how he feels.

...says Art Spiegelman, annointed father of the genre. He says, "If that’s true (that he's the father), I want a blood test," the Economist reports. 'Graphic novel' sounds more respectable, but I prefer 'comics' because it credits the medium. ['Comics'] is a dumb word, but that’s what they are."

Spiegelman is not without his share of ticks. He admitted that he hates collaborating with other artists, he talks out loud while he works and he takes very little pleasure in drawing. “I don’t have the natural skills or patience to draw well,” he said. “I take no pleasure in drawing a tree just for a tree’s sake. I only draw a tree when I absolutely need a tree.”