No Time to Spare: Thinking About What Matters

blog entries/ essay of everything from her newest cat to political issues in the US from the position of an elder.

Brilliant. I had read most of her big fantasy works, of course, and most of her sci-fi, even some non-speculative fiction– but this book of blog posts and essays really cemented my admiration of her. An astoundingly intelligent woman, whose observations, writings and opinions will be sorely missed.

Third reading, January 2025, obviously much different circumstances: there is no longer any time to spare. My first readings I found this inspiring; now I find it more poignant, reflective, and in some senses clearer. Le Guin did not live to see the 2024 election but oh, how she predicted it, how it all went so wrong, every step of the way. With her gentle voice she addresses corporatism, toxic masculinity, overpopulation; with hope and rage and calm strength.

I have watched my country accept, mostly quite complacently, along with a lower living standard for more and more people, a lower moral standard.

and:

When did it become impossible for our government to ask its citizens to refrain from short-term gratification in order to serve a greater good?

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2nd reading, Jan 2024. Sometimes I just need to hear her voice; much like with Terry Pratchett.

A rather uneven collection of essays: partly sharp, critical, political, witty, and very educated; partly rather too everyday. I am not interested in other people's love of cats, or the best way to eat an egg.