Death is Eternal #372

Sunday. October 29, 2023. 1,410 words.

A different Death is Eternal this week, not for you, but for me. My more than ten-year-old computer is no longer working perfectly. Still, since I have a tablet, I decided to make it my primary writing tool—because it’s cheaper to use what you already have than to buy a new thing; it’s also greener, and we need to be greener if we want the world not to end. But moving from a computer to a tablet isn’t as easy as it seems, as I’m discovering as I try to make the move. So, although this change won’t (I think) impact you, rest assured that it’s affecting more than I thought it would and more than I would like it to. Anyway, no more excuses and explanations; let’s delve into this newsletter.

Contents

1. The Battle of Worcester

2. Writing: Showcasing

3. Bye!

4. Life (from October 23 to November 5, 2023)

5. Death is Eternal review # 243: Human Target by Peter Milligan, Edvin Biuković, Lee Loughridge, and others

6. The end

1. The Battle of Worcester

“Please, sir, stay in Scotland,” implored David Leslie, 1st Lord Newark, his eyes earnest with conviction.

Charles II, regal countenance tinged with disbelief, fixed his gaze upon the Scottish commander.

Leslie’s voice resonated, measured and resolute, “Your majesty, here in Scotland, we hold sway. Our strength is unwavering, and our allies are known. Most crucially, Cromwell and the Parliamentarians tread not on this soil. In England, our grasp is uncertain, our foes concealed.”

“I am the King!” Thundered Charles II. “England is my birthright! Royalists clamour for my return! The Presbyterians will rally beneath my standard! England shall be mine once more! Yet, hidden in Scotland, they may deem me indifferent to their plights, partial to their people. Or worse, they may believe I’m fearful of the rebels. I must journey to London. I must reclaim my throne and station!”

Leslie exhaled, a whisper of resignation dancing in the air. He anticipated this struggle, but he pressed on. Perhaps, just perhaps, the King might heed him, “Your majesty, the breadth of your support may not be as formidable. Were it so, your father might yet reign.”

“Crucially, we are blind to Cromwell’s intelligence. He may hold your loyalists in his sight, ready to strike at your word. He might possess knowledge of your every design, a scheme to vanquish you. Here in Scotland, we hold vigil. England is a riddle...”

“Enough!” Roared the King. “We shall journey to England! To Worcester, and thence, reclaim my realm! You will heed my command, for I am the King! England is mine! Cromwell, a mere pretender! Parliamentarians, treacherous! Their commonality? Foolishness! I surpass them all for...” Charles II paused for breath, his final proclamation and eruption, “ I AM THE KING!”

David Leslie held his tongue. No one could sway the monarch, and Charles II had not finished issuing his edicts.

“And you will obey, or I shall find another. Obey, for I AM THE KING!”

Leslie bowed, right hand pressed to his chest, and left the chamber with the words, “As you wish, my liege.”

Charles II sipped at his wine, a jagged edge to his throat. A knowing grin crept across his face, for he knew that soon, London would be his once more.

The end

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The Battle of Worcester took place on 3 September 1651 at Worcester, England, and was the final battle of the English Civil War, which began in 1642. Oliver Cromwell's Parliamentary New Model Army, 28,000 strong, defeated King Charles II's 16,000 Royalists, of whom the vast majority were Scottish.

2. Writing: Showcasing

Credit: Substack (a peacock showcasing its multicoloured and shiny feathers)

In my recent writing, particularly in last week’s Death is Eternal installment, I deliberately shifted the tone and structure towards a more formal, essay-like style. This change wasn’t about altering the content but rather a conscious effort to highlight my diverse writing skills. While I believe I’ve been making strides in creative writing, I recognize there’s a broader spectrum to explore.

Becoming a proficient writer entails more than just excelling in creative expression; it encompasses various forms of writing. This realization might seem straightforward, yet it took some time for me to grasp it fully. I used to believe that honing my creative abilities was the primary focus. However, understanding how to adopt different styles and tones is equally crucial. For instance, if I wish to craft a character with a professorial demeanour, it’s imperative that I understand how to communicate in that scholarly manner.

Moreover, if my ambition is to see my work published, I must establish a diverse writing portfolio. While publishing short stories is undeniably beneficial, it’s not the sole venue for success. Essays, too, hold significant potential. Admittedly, it may be challenging for an unknown writer to secure a spot in established magazines or publications. Nevertheless, demonstrating proficiency in essay writing changes the narrative. It becomes a tangible testament to my versatility as a writer.

Thus, the shift in style and form serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it compels me to exercise literary muscles that may prove invaluable in my writing journey—muscles I wouldn’t naturally engage otherwise. Secondly, it equips me with tangible proof to present to editors and publishers should they inquire about my experience beyond the creative writing realm.

I’m curious to hear your perspective on this matter. Do you believe I’m steering in the right direction, or should I redirect my focus towards writing solely what truly resonates with me?

3. Bye!

Here’s where we say our farewell to the free subscribers. If you want to read the rest of Death is Eternal, consider becoming a paying subscriber. If you already are a paying subscriber, first of all, thank you very, very much! And second, I’ll see you on the other side of the paywall.