Authors Electric

I have been staying a little bit clear of social media since the Christmas break allowed me to take a pause, reflect and re-charge. But as I slide towards the building momentum created by the events and projects due to take place in 2026, I have posted a few times and tried to keep up with things. Now, I almost wish it would cease to exist.   It’s just that I don’t see positive comments about anything anymore. The internet is awash with bitter jealousy, vengeful spite and comments designed to pull anything and anyone down. It’s always had trolls and bots ‘commenting’ on everything, but lately it’s got nastier and more humourless.   It isn’t just to be found in the cyberspace – there’s always been a whole culture of build ‘em up, pull ‘em down in this country – it’s just got worse. So, I am asking, why can’t we offer ‘congratulations’ or say ‘well done’ anymore?   I knew who my real friends were as soon as I started being published, writing and performing, because along ca...

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I would like: 1. Full fibre broadband with a secure wired router, so I have the option of working at home without being radiated by wireless technology. 2. A train with a wi-fi shielded carriage (possibly combined with the quiet carriage?) so that I can read a paperback in comfort. 3. Orange street lighting so I can see the road in the dark on my commute. Failing that, a pair of those yellow night-driving glasses, which I don't seem able to buy now we have LED street-lighting and actually need them. 4. A local cafe with NO wi-fi (free or otherwise) and a "no smartphones" sign, where I can enjoy a cup of coffee and cake without getting indigestion from everyone else's devices. 5. An off-line friend who would enjoy a chat over coffee in the "no smartphone" cafe. (Can also be an online friend, of course, provided I get 1 as well). 6. An off-grid cottage for holidays so my body and brain can recover from all the wireless...