Although he is mainly remembered for creating James Bond, Ian Fleming has more to offer to readers and writers alike. Jordan M. Poss, among others, calls Fleming a craftsman, master not only of English prose but also plot construction. Unlike the films adapted from his novels, Fleming’s Bond plots vary. He killed the villain two-thirds of the way into a novel, shifted between genres, and even delayed Bond’s entry into the narrative for several chapters — keeping readers on their toes and enticing them to turn the page. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
