"Of Thinking Being and Beast," by Michael J. DeLuca

[Scott H. Andrews]

This thread is to discuss "Of Thinking Being and Beast," by Michael J. DeLuca, which appears in BCS Issue #9 (http://www.beneath-ceaseless-skies.com/toc.php?s=9) from Jan. 29, 2009.

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[Unregistered]

Cool story . . . I like the mix of good writing - verging on literary, really, especially in its descriptive prowess - and over-the-top subject matter. The blended mythologies - Greek myth, the Wild West - dovetail perfectly with what seems to me a provocative read on violence - it's entertainment, diversion, and, in the end, destiny. A depressing truth artfully composed. Thanks for putting it out there -

Sean

[Unregistered]

I loved this story! A little different from the usual fantasy stuff out there. I love the mythology stuff, but I also love the fact that the author doesn't take himself too seriously (neither does the centaur-in-charge, despite his brutality, it seems). It's not all that often that a fantasy story actually manages to get me fully involved in imagining the universe it creates - while reading this story, I could actually see the damn centaurs! The mythology makes me think (and wish that I knew more on this score...), and the action is well put together - not too much, not too little. I like the writing style too - again, not too flashy but not simplistic either. I'd love to read more from this guy!

[Unregistered]

Great story! I'm generally not a huge fan of fantasy, but DeLuca has broken new ground with this one! Those centaurs are creatures you just love to hate. His knowledge of mythology is a real boon to this tale as well. The way he weaves that into his own world speaks volumes. A creative masterpiece IMO. D**mned fine piece of prose. Thanks for the experience!

[Unregistered]

I've found DeLuca's storytelling to be unique and evocative in the past and this is no exception. I love his elegant style. His use of language always enhances a story's effect.

I'm not a knee-jerk fan of mythology-based pieces since often the story gets lost in the mythological references. But this one works really well.

DeLuca remains a must-read for me.

[Merc]

The story is awesome! I definitely want to see more Eurytus and Nessus.

Definitely one of my favorite stories I've read in BCS so far. :D

[Merc]

I just wanted to mention that I nominated this story for the 2010 Million Writers Award (http://www.jasonsanford.com/jason/2010/01/reader-nominations-for-2010-million-writers-award.html). :D Because I love it.

[Scott H. Andrews]

I just wanted to mention that I nominated this story for the 2010 Million Writers Award (http://www.jasonsanford.com/jason/2010/01/reader-nominations-for-2010-million-writers-award.html). :D Because I love it.
Thank you!

You may be pleased to know that we have another story set in this world coming up next month. Actually, it features the same beast-circus, just with several different characters.