Dominae Primus-releases & updates

new titles on the way in known and new channels

2012-01-10T19:59:00.000+08:00

Watch this space, I have new titles coming up soon. Some stuff you never knew are going to show up.

Dominae Primus at Indigo

2012-01-10T00:26:00.000+08:00

Indigo shares the same digital portal as Kobobooks.com thus you will be redirected to Kobobooks.com if you click on my Indigo listed titles.

Dominae Primus at Borders Australia Digital Store

2012-01-06T17:55:00.002+08:00

Absolutely Done
http://www.borders.com.au/ebook/absolutely-done/11825733/

Second Chances
http://www.borders.com.au/ebook/second-chances/11825828/

Granary County
http://www.borders.com.au/ebook/granary-county/11825787/

!Attention!
http://www.borders.com.au/ebook/attention/12807304/

Daily Doses & Vital Verses
http://www.borders.com.au/ebook/daily-doses-vital-verses/11825690/

Dominae Primus at Kobobooks.com

2012-01-06T01:13:00.000+08:00

Absolutely Done
http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Absolutely-Done/book-r44tUnZvDU-FVHbPVjMR2g/page1.html

Second Chances
http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Second-Chances/book-zwr86R0oTE2ISFk5YxVA4g/page1.html

Daily Doses & Vital Verses
http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Daily-Doses-Vital-Verses/book-CiKBHF1PUUqhzlQ2-0QMpQ/page1.html

Granary County
http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Granary-County/book-3mq7n4L8NkO3ayXCdnzg3A/page1.html

!Attention!
http://www.kobobooks.com/ebook/Attention/book-GOYxC3fuA0SgeSf4PO_jXg/page1.html

Rhyme and Reason Volume 2-Dominae Primus at Project Gutenberg

2012-01-05T00:57:00.002+08:00

A compilation of verses and prose. Rhyme and Reason Volume 2 is a free ebook by Dom who ranks among the living authors with books listed at Gutenberg.org also known as Project Gutenberg. The perfect companion for Rhyme and Reason.
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/6034

Rhyme and Reason-Dominae Primus at Project Gutenberg

2012-01-05T00:56:00.002+08:00

A compilation of verses and prose. Rhyme and Reason is a free ebook by Dom who ranks among the living authors with books listed at Gutenberg.org also known as Project Gutenberg
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/5330

PoPHILO-Dominae Primus at Project Gutenberg

2012-01-05T00:54:00.000+08:00

A compilation of philosophical thoughts and reflections based on the author's world view between the ages of 20 to 30. The content in here is anything but juvenile!
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/5329

Praetor's Lunch-Dominae Primus at Project Gutenberg

2012-01-05T00:52:00.000+08:00

Praetor's Lunch is a free ebook that captures the thoughts of a fictional Roman Praetor(Magistrate or Judge) who lived during the era of the Roman Empire. Social and conceptual themes are addressed in morsels.
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/5766

Naturae-Dominae Primus at Project Gutenberg

2012-01-05T00:45:00.002+08:00

NATURAE
http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/5331
This is a spiritual jaunt in the style of elegant Old English. If Shakespeare had been more of a spiritualist and less of a dramatist, this is my impression of what he'd have produced. When I first studied Shakespeare I believed I had it in me to write an Old English piece. I did that, around 10 years after my first English Literature lesson in school. So it's having a spin on the Bard on my own terms and image.

Non Commercial works at the BBC

2012-01-05T00:31:00.001+08:00

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_02.shtml

A Glance at Time
by
Dom

What is this fleeting moment?
An hourglass filled with cascading sand
Passes us in joy or lament
While we compelled or by own choosing attend

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom.shtml

The Archer
by
Dom
The Archer pulls his bowstring
Yonder what lies in hiding
One shot hits its target true
Hinders doubts which worries spew

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_03.shtml

For My Friends
by
Dom
Courtesy in deeds driven
Ev'ry gesture plays a part
Fair regard gladly given
Fondness well planted in heart

Ye fair rovers in life
torches glow and fires swell
upon the reach of warm hive
We wish thee "all be well"

For those true let none deceive
Be relieved by what's believed
Within sadness joy's reprieve
Joy increased from joy received

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_04.shtml

SURSUM CORDA - Lift up your hearts
by
Dom
Come my dears the sun yellow
Beckons thee out of sorrowful wallow
The pit of tears runs too shallow
For lively spirits mellow and callow
Let's be gone with many a-bellow
We cross the hollow elbow to elbow.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_05.shtml

Seaside Sunrise
by
Dom
From distance and depths they roll
nearer like a constant stroll
their formation fluidly rustling
nearing leaves slovenly shaking
salt in my nose, curled up my toes
I can see the troopers moving hither

Horizon of scattered specks
unheeding fluid troopers' tracks
wavy phalanx forward advance
prance a primordial nature's dance
glare in my eyes, from morn sunrise
my attention attends along the strand.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_06.shtml

Worth Of Say
by
Dom
Everybody's worth of say
heard in haunts you roam
Someone else's worth of say
overheard as you flit by
It's not your worth of say
while you stand, watch and wait
You want your worth of say
before pale flag's hoisted
the towel thrown

Everybody's worth of say
in each twist of rhetoric
Someone else's worth of say
you cannot see your name
It's not your worth of say
you haven't spoken yet
You want your worth of say
before the heart's lost
the daredevils retire

Everybody's worth of say
as you glean the scene
Someone else's worth of say
while you keep your peace
It's not your worth of say
when others speak their mind
You want your worth of say
before the flames flake
the embers melt.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_07.shtml

Your Move
by
Dom
Where does your heart lie ?
when it must be true ?
the hard questions they pry
and they are now due !

to salvation where you're cleansed ?
or reap damnation of recompense ?
judge and make fateful choice
foolish plunge or righteous poise !

http://www.bbc.co.uk/shropshire/culture/writestuff/2003/08/dom_08.shtml

Eight Lines
by
Dom
Things said are said fully
Deeds done are done truly
There shan't be lies to grieve
If truth is like a sieve

When wits are matched
Our minds are lighted
When sins are hatched
Our joys are blighted

Can the graphically rich generation imagine and visualise?

2011-12-26T03:03:00.001+08:00

It is almost commonplace to see realistic graphical animation for education, work and entertainment these days. However I do harbour a concern. All this is fine but are the people especially the younger set losing the ability to imagine what has yet to be made? I honed my imagination from reading 2D comics and illustrated classics. Film footage also helped to enhance some angles. I come from a background where static illustrations and minimal graphics were present during the years when we matured. Our imagination and visualisation filled in the gaps and gave added depths to what was visually available. What of the generations now who are weaned on readily available animation? I think there shall be those who are inclined towards imagination and dreaming and there shall be those who have no knack at all despite all the resources available.

Clean up loose ends

2011-12-23T11:27:00.000+08:00

I made it a point to say what should have been said to people from my past whom I could still contact. Not to leave anything too late I wrote explanations, some apologies and parting shots. There was no need for pretences or appearances any more. Just the frank and sometimes previously unknown truth to break the silence. At some point in life, it has to be done. Through it all, I remain who I am.

Absolutely Done - extracts -

2011-11-09T00:19:00.003+08:00

Absolutely Done - a fine balance of the brutal,comical and spiritual within an action packed yarn.

Absolutely Done written by Dominae Primus is a fiction release that blends adrenaline fuelled action sequences, adventure, humour, wit, spirituality and mythology. Light enough for the casual reader, engaging for audiences looking beyond flash and explosions and intense enough in action for those who wish to have a cinematic feel of brawn and adrenaline.

ABSOLUTELY DONE

ISBN 978-967-5785-01-6 (international)
ASIN: B004X29URA (Amazon.com and all Amazon digital stores)
By Dominae Primus

Absolute, a rebel Angel is recruited for the unenviable task of stepping into the Grim Reaper’s shoes for the time being. Absolute wants for nothing of this world, but the divine right of earning his keep as a competent enforcer of order in a world wracked by chaos & greed. An Angel serves his God not only by saving, at times he too must kill to even up the scales of crime & retribution. Presented in frame after frame of action interspersed with humour, Absolute’s adventures lead him to bloodshed, discovery & personal triumph. In his role as the Angel of Death, Absolute is determined in an unpleasant trade, finds ample room for his mischievous wit while being thorough in his execution of duty.

ABSOLUTELY DONE is a book with vivid scenes that can be adapted as a feature film.

Johnny fancied himself as the fastest gun in the west and even faster than the fastest fist from the east. Johnny’s an assassin for hire. His price is always at a premium. But he gets the job done. To Johnny everyone and anyone can be put away for a price that fattens his bank balance. When other assassins have failed, most desperate parties turn to Johnny, as their last resort.

“So what do you want me to do, pack him and her off with a bullet each?”

“If that’s what it takes or just use one for the price of two heads if that is possible.”

“It’s possible…but…”

“But what?”

“But it’s going to cost you…. more.”

“One bullet for two heads and it will cost me more?”

“Hey, if you want economy prices, I suggest you get some common hoodlums you got last time.”

“Okay, okay…. I know you’re good. So will that be another 10 percent extra?”

“15 percent.”

“Alright. You got it. One bullet for two heads.”

“Read the headlines tomorrow then.”

Johnny observed from his side just as the car passed by quickly as he viewed from the rear view mirrors the sedan that carried his intended victims back to the luxurious apartment block. He could barely make out two figures at the back and two in front as it passed. But that was enough for him. “Mr. & Mrs. Barrow I presume. Too bad the amateurs a week back shot the wrong couple with the same model at another fancy block. I’ll give them time to get back.”

Johnny made his way into the luxurious apartment block. He easily made it through as a courier with an important package. That made it easier to hide his weapon. He had his bags checked and even a body search but no one checked the package. That made the obvious the easiest to slip pass.

He carried on to the block where he was met by the butler who met him at the door.

“A package for Mr. & Mrs. Barrow from Smith & Wesson.”

“A package eh? Let me have it. I’ll take it to them.”

“You will take it to them I’m sure.”

“What did you say?”

Johnny closes the door behind him so no one who passes sees anything after this and whips out his automatic with a silencer from the package.

“Special delivery. Take me to them both or I’ll blow you off right now.”

He shoves the butler and seethes menacingly, “Take me to Barrow now!”

They both make their way through the spacious penthouse. Just as a maid chances to pass, Johnny shoots her squarely on the neck. She goes backwards and crumples.

Swift, brutal and effective.

“Try anything man, and I won’t spare a thought of blowing you just like that. Now get going.”

Seeing his butler approach from an angle, Barrow did not notice Johnny.

“Clive, what is it?”

Just at that moment Clive had outlived his usefulness.

A muffled shot behind the head, a quick shove and Clive fell forward.

Johnny springs in front of his intended victim.

“This!”

A slightly warm silencer is pressed between Barrow’s brows.

“Who the devil are you?”

“Another devil. What does it matter?”

“What do you want?”

“Call Mrs. Barrow now, if you want to live.”

“So your business is with her? Look we can work this out.”

“Call her now.”

“Jane. Come here please.”

“Yes, what is it that you …”

She stops in mid sentence. Seeing the stranger with a silencer to Barrow’s head.

“Sit down Mrs. Barrow.”

“Do as he says, Jane.”

She sits on the vanity chair.

“Just take half the chair Mrs. Barrow.”

“Now Mr. Barrow, I want you to step backwards and join Mrs. Barrow on the other half of the chair.”

“Look if this is a robbery, I can give you what you want now. There’s a safe in here, I’ll give you all the money that’s inside and you can just take it.”

“Step backwards and stop talking Mr. Barrow.”

Johnny shoves Barrow backwards and he plops down to the chair.

“Good. Now Mr. Barrow place your head right behind the back of Mrs. Barrow’s head.”

He does as asked.

“You have been good. Now it’s going to get better.”

“Look stranger, I don’t know who you are. You can still get away with all the money in the safe.”

“You’re worth more than that Mr. Barrow and I’m packing you off with a dose of luxury. Goodbye.”

He presses the trigger. It’s a point blank shot between Barrow’s eyebrows through his head as it then passes through Mrs. Barrow’s back of the head and out again. The bullet finally makes a slug mark on the teak cabinet opposite.

Two heads with one high-powered bullet.

Mind blowing ballistics.

Johnny calmly makes his way out of the block with his bag in hand. This time no one bothers to check him anymore. He had been checked before he went in.

Johnny would have been proud of himself if he had seen the papers the next day. If.

For what happened shortly after is a classic case of crime and punishment.

Johnny Badseed makes his way back to his apartment.

There as he flicks on the light, ready to luxuriate in his big hit, but on his usual seat another is in his place.

Instinctively, Johnny whips out his weapon and begins to fire. He fires a brief volley of shots and observes what happens next. To his horror, the figure rises and walks towards him.

Clutching his firearm tightly Johnny takes careful aim.

“Time’s up Johnny. You’ve been a bad boy.”

“I don’t know what suit you’re wearing but no suit can save you from this!”

Johnny aims at Absolute’s face and fires 3 rounds. This time it’s between the brows.

“Impeccable aim Johnny. Then again you never miss at that range and neither do I.”

Absolute whips out his swords and gores him through to the heart.

Gasping Johnny drops his weapon and clutches his chest.

“Who are you, who sent you and why can’t you die?”

“I cannot be killed by bullets Johnny. God sent me. It’s time for you to go.”

“If this is retribution for my past, why did you allow me to kill the Barrow couple?”

“Well they had their share of sins as well through dubious financial dealings, left a lot of people impoverished, caused suicides and you were just an instrument of their fate as I am now for yours. It’s over now Johnny Badseed.”

Absolute flicks his blades as blood drops off like dew drops on a leaf.

He sheathes them back and turns away.

As Johnny lay dying, the circling flames of the netherworld envelop him.

Johnny died a rich man on paper. But he never lived to spend on his last big hit.

...............................................................

“Rascal, your time is up!”

“I’m not going yet punk!”

Out steps a cloaked figure with a grim expression and scythes in both hands.

“You fancy punk, think you can take me out with that?”

“You have sinned enough Rascal. Time to burn.”

“Burn yourself with lead punk!”

A rash of bullets discharged by the automatic submachine gun, rattles off its firepower.

The scythed figure weaves past the wave of bullets, moving his arms in a slicing motion and manages to turn the barrel sideways at close range. A follow up scythe attempts to slice Rascal’s neck, when Rascal pulls out a pistol from behind his back and fires point blank. The cloaked figure is momentarily surprised and the loss of momentum results in a small gash on Rascal’s right arm.

Rascal steps backwards and re-aims his automatic weapon fired from the left arm at the cloaked figure. “Die, you fancy vermin!”

Again the cloaked figure sidesteps the gunfire and rushes backwards with the grace of an ice skater.

In a fit, Rascal stirs and cups his face in his hands. Shaking himself awake. Grunting and snarling, he opens his eyes, removes the cupped hands from his face and stares at the ceiling of his room. “A blasted dream that was!”

He senses wetness on his right arm. Switches on the bedside lamp. He sees a slight scratch on his arm with a small trace of blood.

“So it was him, Death himself trying to take me out! Well he failed, that miserable creature, he failed! Rascal lives and he defies Death again!”

He rushes out to the balcony. “You hear that Death! I defied you again. Same way I defied the authorities. Each time they got close I beat them back. You hear that God! I made a pact with the Black Duke! I won’t be killed by Death! I’m untouchable! I’m alive!”

Turning away he mutters. “I can’t be killed in my sleep!”

The Grim Reaper had failed to claim the life of Rascal Common, who had exceeded his threshold of wickedness. Alone he rushes into the dark, disappointed by his failure. God will not be pleased by his weakness. He wanders into the dark, with nowhere to go and hide from the gaze of God who notes once again on his lack of precision and firmness.

But we do not have a God who strikes Death, nor God striking down Rascal Common with a thought though he very well could do so. There will still be those who deserve their fate even though this chain of circumstance drags longer than initially expected.

“Anchorius, scythes are just not my style. I don’t sashay the same way The Grim Reaper does.”

“You mean to weave the same way he does?”

“Yes, Master and also I prefer a sword. A least I know it’s straight to the point!”

“Well you did fine against Johnny Badseed. I wish you well with Rascal Common.

God has seen all possibilities and he is deemed to have expired all lease of life this night.

Remember he cannot be killed in his sleep for he had made an unholy pact!”

“ I bid you well, Master!”

Absolute makes his way to his second mission. No less grim a task to do in his business of death dealing to the death defying.

He makes his way to the Rascal’s Cove, hidden in the maze of alleyways of the city. Known only to those with special passes who wish to have a peek into the playground of the city’s most notorious dealer kingpin, known only as Rascal Common. A moniker after he had built a reputation for skilful sinning.

Rascal Common sits in the upper floor, overlooking all activities, designed like an opera box, where he is able to pick out those he fancies and those he wishes to eliminate. Surrounded by a phalanx of tough looking bouncers and bodyguards, he is every inch a Depression Era gangster kingpin incarnate in an immaculate suit, hat and glass of fine wine. Sophisticated, deadly and sure of his powers of having a mass of well dressed hoodlums at his beck and call. Sure that his Black Duke will uphold the bargain in return for a slice of his soul. He will not be killed by Death, the Grim Reaper.

While smaller hoodlums negotiate deals of smaller stakes, Rascal Common is updated on the successes of his latest larceny and takings. All done on his behalf with no name to tie him to the act. The authorities had tried to prosecute Rascal Common but without witnesses to attest to his orders, no case can be had. But tonight, the authorities will have some help.

Absolute makes his way to the main entrance, a solid wood and metal framed humongous door with the sign of the jolly roger as its door knob. Two large mean looking bouncers man the entrance asking every patron for their passes.

“Where’s your pass?”

Two tough looking tall hoodlums in sharp suits stare at Absolute, towering above him in height. He looks up from the brim of his hat, flutters his lapels and looks them in the eyes.

“That’s my pass.”

For a moment there was nothing. As if the hoodlums will inevitably seize his impudent form and throw him on to the road. Then they were both struck, not with the arms of destruction, but with wrenching shame. Absolute saw through their souls, torn by what they do as a living against what their families expect them to be. It is easy to put on an air of respectability for mortal eyes, but what if the Divine eye were to gaze into your soul and see your every doubt and exposed your shame in the raw?

They continued their duties with a twist by turning away every other patron after Absolute. Patrons dared not question the hard gaze or sturdy forms of the pair of armed bouncers.

He enters the foyer and sees the mass of people who live their lives by sinning well and mutters, “That only takes you that far.”

The smoke winding trails and tinkling of glasses lead him to the murmurs of the inner chamber, where music plays in the backdrop amid a glistening sea of sophisticated felony. His gaze follows the trail up to the opera box like top, where Rascal Common is having a briefing with his hoodlum lieutenants.

Absolute makes his way up to the front and is accosted by a woman, whose dress betrays her profession of indulgent pleasure.

“You’re new here. Let me show you around.” She stealthily winds her palm into his breast pocket.

“There is a good book at your bedside, You never got to read it.”

He seizes her wrist and continues in a firmer tone, “I suggest you go home and have a look at it tonight.”

She looks at him and tries to use her charms, then realises that it is useless. She wriggles her palm out of his grip, gives him a quizzical piercing look of irritation and hurries away.

“Not your night, eh?”

She gazes sideways and sees another woman dressed in a similar manner.

“I don’t feel well. I’m going home.”

“Well if you don’t make a killing Molly I will!”, came the response.

She hurries along, not hearing one bit of it in her haste.

Absolute is trailed by Molly’s colleague, a woman dressed in the same manner as she is.

She accosts him and attempts to catch his attention.

“Absolute looks at her. Firmly grasps her arm, and pronounces, “Repent while you still can!”

Absolute walks away.

“You’re not giving me the same drift Holy Joe!”

She runs up and pulls his sleeve.

He turns. Meets her gaze. Pulls her chin up. “You’re not my type. Go home!”

In a huff she storms off, irritated by the firm rebuff.

Absolute disappears from the vantage viewpoint from the box. Distracted by his lieutenant’s briefing, Rascal Common fails to notice the arrival of the determined stranger.

Absolute takes the escalator to the box area. He meets a trio of hoodlums at the top.

They gaze at him menacingly and draw back their coats to reveal firearms in holsters.

“Remove your coat! What business do you have here?”

Absolute obliges them. He removes his great coat and it falls to the ground to reveal a pair of drawn swords that he plunges into the two hoodlums on his flanks. The middle one attempts to draw his weapon and is met with a head butt up his chest. He crashes against the hard wall panelling. His head hits the hard panels and the blow knocks him out. Absolute fishes up the firearm by the trigger guard and throws it into the disposal bin nearby. Sheathing his swords he wears his coat again. Now he props one of the fallen hoodlums near the door, hooks up his jacket lapel, where his form can be seen, appearing to be guarding the place if seen from a small glass panel.

Now he walks into the chamber where the opera box is.

“I’m here to see Rascal.”

Thinking that he had access to the enclosure he is let in.

The sentinel who lets him in thinks that the one propped against the door is still on duty.

Sure of their numbers and their firepower, the burly bodyguards of Rascal Common are seated on plush cushions, sipping on drinks and inhaling fat cigars for their fix of nicotine. They eye Absolute, but since he had cleared at least two lines of defences, they figured that he indeed had some business with Rascal Common. A lieutenant ushers Absolute to the box.

“Someone to see you Rascal.”

Rascal puffing on a cigar, cross-legged with his well polished shoes reflecting a glow from the overhead lights, eyes the newcomer with an air of defiant haughtiness.

“What have you got for me?”

“Judgment.”

Silence. Rascal stops puffing. His bodyguards start to feel their holsters under their jackets.

“Ha..ha..ha…so you think walking up here and telling me that is going to scare me hotshot?”

“I’m no hotshot Rascal. Your time is up!”

Bodyguards and lieutenants flanking Rascal Common whip out their pistols and point their barrels at Absolute. He notices that all of them carry silencers. Unfazed, he looks into the soul of Rascal Common and sees his unholy pact.

“Don’t make me repeat myself Rascal. Your Black Duke’s no help either.”

“What gives you the right to talk like that? I cannot be killed by Death. What does that make you, punk?”

“Uncommon.”

Turning to his henchmen, Rascal puffs his cigars. “Give him the silent send off.”

But it is not Absolute who falls but henchmen standing behind Absolute, gasp and fall forwards, grasping their bloodied chests.

“Next.”

END OF SAMPLE EXTRACT

Second Chances - extracts -

2011-11-09T00:14:00.003+08:00

Second Chances -action, adventure and laughter on the road to redemption.

SECOND CHANCES

ISBN 978-967-5785-00-9 (international)
ASIN: B004WWWTBU (Amazon.com and all Amazon digital stores)

By Dominae Primus

The novel explores Absolute's adventures and the interesting mix of characters he meets in order to thwart a daring assassination without arousing suspicion of his special powers. This fable blends action comedy with imagination and attitude.

Second Chances is a vivid tale that can easily be portrayed as an animated feature.

Prequel to hard hitting Absolutely Done.

At the village of Urbanphobia, a great gastronomic and entertainment feast is in progress. Laughter swells, music swells even louder. The main village square has neat rows of dining tables. Pots and culinary delights simmer, extolling their bubbly humour. Open grilles exude heat as they invite eager appetites to indulge. The perfect excuse for the village chief to go traipsing from one pot to another and have a preview of all dishes before the main event.

"What do you think of the porridge’s consistency Sir?"

He takes a sip, another sip and another.

"I think it needs a little more pepper!"

"Very good Sir!"

"No, my good man, it will make it better!"

"Very good…er…very well Sir!"

He walks a few paces away.

"What do you think of the appetiser Sir?"

Taking great relish and two upturned brows later... "Excellent, couldn’t have done it better myself!"

"Very good Sir!"

He pats the cook.

"Excellent, my good man, excellent!"

He walks over to the next brewing pot.

"Now what is brewing here my dear?"

"Stew for a Few, a special home recipe."

"Ah…so that’s why it’s in a cauldron, my good woman?"

"I make exceptions for feast days Sir! Here have a sip!"

He slurps. He slurps a bit longer. He slurps the entire ladle.

"A delightful trip, my dear!"

"Very good Sir!"

He rubs his hands eagerly. Walks a few paces more.

"Now what’s next?"

"Sir, try my pancakes!"

Swaying a bit, the village chief says, "I’ll have only a modest portion my good woman, our guests should have the lion’s share."

She pushes a tray to him. He sniffs the steam wafting into his nostrils. He swallows hard.

"My appetite is modest, modest really!" Saying so, he pats his generous girth. Then extends his hand to pick a pancake and proceeds to finish it off. His eyes shine with gastronomic delight.

Sergeant Chevrons, Corporal Rogue, Private Wings and Private Drumsticks appear from a short distance away, raising their swords, bedecked in full ceremonial gear.

Corporal Rogue whispers into the Sergeant’s ears. "Sir, why are we in ceremonial gear? It’s usually used for formal occasions in court when the King is present."

"I’m aware of that Corporal, but when we return to my village, we are treated like Kings! Now everyone, raise your swords and let’s ride into the village square."

Sergeant Chevrons is mobbed by his own kinfolk. There is much rejoicing, shouting and fussing over their ceremonial uniforms. The villagers jostle for a close look at their outfits. Private Drumsticks, to his credit, this time around, he made a point to wear clean socks and dabbed scented oils onto himself. Seeing a lute on Horse Horsey’s side, villagers query Absolute. "Are you also a minstrel Corporal?"

"I am a King’s Guard above all else but sometimes I find it more fitting to whip out the lute than the sword."

He smiles. They guffaw.

"Play us a tune!"

Absolute obliges. He dismounts. Teasing every chord possible from the lute, alternating between swift strums and slow picking, he entertains as a crowd, crowds around him. It’s not every day when a soldier plays for villagers. Through it all Horsey Horsey wanders away to rest atop soft turf.. After a tune from Absolute, the village feasted.

Midway through the feast, a group of raiders in unwashed clothes and messy hair descend into the village square. With a loud blow of a caustic sounding horn they proclaim their arrival with

"We are the Left Tease Revolutionaries. Hand over your food and we will spare your throats! Down with Froggers!"

At this, Sergeant Chevrons yells a challenge. "Down with raiders. The King’s Guards are here!" He unsheathes his weapon. Absolute, Drumsticks and Wings do the same. Village folk scatter as the armed adversaries face each other. Absolute spies a pitchfork behind him. Sheathing his weapon, he takes the pitchfork.

"Let’s be nitpicky!"

"Sergeant we have some opposition!", cried a raider.

Absolute, Drumsticks and Wings overheard the outburst.

"'Sergeant'! Now that's curious!", thought Absolute.

Reinforcements are quickly summoned and about a dozen more raiders with unwashed clothes and messy hair rush to meet them all.

Definitely not a courtesy call, they brandish their weapons in a hurry without even a courteous call of 'On Guard!'.

"Let's see how you deal with us all you fancy dressers!".

With his drawn sword raised, the one addressed as 'sergeant' orders a trio of raiders to see to Absolute and Wings, still clad in ceremonial gear.

"You think they're fancy dressers! Why don't you take me on?" All eyes turn towards the voice, revealing a figure in bright scarlet, yellow and black jester's suit. A new element in battle. His cap is a jester's cap. With two swords and a shield strapped to his back, Absolute recognises the newcomer. His jaw droops a bit as he utters, "Anchorius....in a jester's suit!?"

Private Wings stands frozen. So did the rest of the village. All noise turn to stillness. Acute silence. Everyone frozen in mid-action and gesture, like statues. All except Absolute, Anchorius and the three raiders too caught up with fervour and unaware of the changes occurring around them. One charges at Absolute, another two charge towards Anchorius.

Using the pitchfork, Absolute parries his foe's blade thrusts and lunges, trapping the blade between the pitchfork's teeth and twisting it away. With a pitchfork and his opponent's weapon in another hand, he smiles. He asks his foe "Which one do you prefer?"

"Neither!"

The man runs off the opposite way into the forest in blind panic. Anchorius swings both his swords expertly, the force dislodging both his opponents' grip on the handles. Seeing themselves disarmed and left with only a short dagger each, they too head for the forest with wild enthusiasm. Thus, three raiders disappear at great speed into the woods, from whence they came.

"Anchorius, I never knew you can be so handy with two swords!"

"It's nothing Absolute. I had a few hundred years' practice."

"How do you explain the jester's suit?"

'They're actually a royal court jester's clothes."

"Since when have you been clowning around?"

"I was one in a former life and a soldier too. Look we all have our sinful past Absolute. Thankfully, we have a slice of Eternity to put things right. Which explains why I'm here."

"Why are you here Anchorius?"

"To enlighten."

"It's broad daylight Anchorius. You will do well at a camp bonfire in those clothes."

Absolute looks behind him and hears the distant wails of panic from the fleeing raiders.

"Absolute, if you've noticed, those three who've fled haven't bothered to look about them. They are too filled with fear to interrupt us."

"Anchorius, I notice that Time and Motion are at a standstill. With a few exceptions. Yourself, those raiders and I."

"That is correct. Come let me enlighten you further."

Anchorius pats a frozen raider in the midst of trading blows with Private Drumsticks. Anchorius pulls out a dagger belonging to the raider from its sheath. "Notice this? This is a conniv!"

"A common dagger used by Conniving's army!", exclaims Absolute.

"Now watch something else!" Saying so, Anchorius with a wink and a nudge, unfastens the raider's trouser belt and pulls the breeches down.

"Anchorius!"

"Notice the underwear?"

"Anchorius, this is outrageous!" Absolute’s eyes dart elsewhere.

"Absolute, sometimes outrage reveals the truth. Look at the underwear!"

Absolute moves his head towards Anchorius, then the exposed raider. His eyes partially covered by his hands.

"Pink and black!"

"Right Absolute. Whose army wears pink and black?"

"Anchorius, are you saying that…?"

"Yes, Absolute. These raiders, who call themselves the Left Tease Revolutionaries are part of Conniving's army. Just like those peasants you encountered at the Piranha Lake."

Saying that, Anchorius uses his sword to unfasten another raider's breeches, revealing the same choice of underwear. Anchorius does the same for every raider. With Time and Motion suspended, they offer no resistance.

"Anchorius, this will not go down well with the village womenfolk!"

"That's exactly my idea Absolute. But hush…I must take my leave soon. I have enlightened you far enough!"

"Wait Anchorius, fill me in a little more about your past life!"

"Very well Absolute. Only awhile longer before I have to restore things as they should."

"Pray, do tell me!"

"I served Prince Gruel of the Principality of Porridge. A place that boils with intrigue at every corner, crusted with conspiracy. I was a soldier who rose through the ranks and that made me quite a thorn in a number of people's sides. Yet another talent had I besides bloodshed. Often before a battle, I will amuse soldiers under me with tomfoolery, songs and other silly jesting. It so happened that Prince Gruel was saddled with much sadness at the time and my presence as storyteller, minstrel and jester had given him relief. I became a full time jester in court instead. One day I was challenged to a duel by a general who grew jealous of my influence and favour with the Prince. I being a skilful and cunning fighter, used all my skills and defeated him. I spared his life but he foolishly made a coward's lunge when my back was turned. I slew him before he could slay me. It was the custom at the Principality of Porridge to take over the place of the one who had been slain and under the custom I would be made a General. Prince Gruel found it hard to allow a jester to lead an army. It hurt his pride too much. He ordered me to be executed instead so that he could take charge of the army.

Ever since I was slain, I did my service and penance as guardian of those unjustly opposed and outnumbered."

"Anchorius, your story is as colourful as your clothes!"

Anchorius smiles, then says, "Absolute you have a mission. There's a plot to mislead that the Left Tease Revolutionaries are Froggers' subjects. There will be more intrigue but you will have friends to fight by your side. I must go now!"

"Anchorius…wait…"

Anchorius disappears like a fading ghost swallowed by a mist just as Time and Motion are restored. The fighting resumes. But instead of furious grunts and bellows, some Left Tease Revolutionaries stumble about with their unfastened breeches. Sergeant Chevrons being a good sport said, "Buckle that up and continue!"

Private Drumsticks in a more matter of fact manner declared, "Ho! You won't be impressing the womenfolk with that!"

Private Wings eyes his adversaries warily and says, "You're not frightening me with that!"

The womenfolk of the village, who awhile ago hid beneath tables and behind pots and pans, echo the same sentiments. As if united by instinct and outrage, the women wade into battle, splashing oil, soap, water, pots, rolling pins and even a large chunk of ham! The menfolk of the village who had run helter-skelter at the first charge, too were outraged by the insensitive display of lowered breeches. They respond with chairs, bottles, tables and even leftovers. Beaten back by a display of ferocious outraged courage, the Left Tease Revolutionaries make a run for it. With Sergeant

Chevrons, Corporal Rogue, Private Wings and Private Drumsticks in pursuit despite being in full ceremonial gear, backed by a village mob with household weapons.

Having secured the village and repulsed the attack of the Left Tease Revolutionaries, the village chief regains his breath and voices his appreciation to the King's Guards.

"We were fortunate to have you at the village to engage them!"

"Oh, don't thank us, the bunch of you fought valiantly!", responded Sergeant Chevrons.

"We were outraged by the tasteless display of underwear!", cried one of the womenfolk.

"Oh yes, dropping their breeches is bad enough and robbing food from us make it doubly worse!", another villager voices agreement.

"Worse for them I'd say!", cried the village chief.

Laughter fills the village where just before there were war cries.

When the revelry had died down, Sergeant Chevrons announced, "I think it's best to organize a round-the-clock guard to watch the village. I'll advise the Captain about this."

With his arms on the Sergeant's shoulders, the village chief looks him in the eye and says, "Thank you Sergeant, we always considered you as the pride of the village!"

When the matter is reported to Captain Lawde...

"What? Pink and black underwear again?"

"Yes, Captain. This time an entire village saw it."

"But we don't have any other evidence to show for it!"

"But Captain, we engaged them. The entire village engaged them."

"I know Sergeant. I'll warn the King about it but whether he believes is another matter."

END OF SAMPLE EXTRACT

Granary County - extracts -

2011-11-09T00:10:00.001+08:00

Granary County by Dominae Primus is a story that straddles action adventure, western and humour. This entertaining composition can be enjoyed by a diverse audience. As an independent piece of work, Granary County has taken an angled shot at the western genre by turning it on its head with a combination of humour, imagination and all out action.

Granary County is literally an edible tribute to the spaghetti western genre, where the good sheriff and lawmen fight the evil villains. The characters in this imaginative satire are delicious with a deadly attitude to boot!

GRANARY COUNTY

ISBN 978-967-5785-02-3 ( international)
ASIN: B004W82M70 (Amazon.com and all Amazon digital stores)
By Dominae Primus

In Granary County, a peaceful, well at least most of the year, place with a population of intelligent grains, immigrant bread and pasta born law keepers live in dietary harmony. By all grainy means, Granary County has a nice mix of roughage, living in a civilized manner in a place where everybody kneads each other in a food chain of co-existence. At least pasta, grains and bread type dwellers talk the same language and may we say they sometimes swear too in the same language. But we shan’t be quoting any examples else we might have our topping chewed off by censorship’s cutting boards.

Sheriff Spaghetti is the chief law keeper of the county. Sheriff Spaghetti was made in Pastaville, a county some rolls away, but found acceptance as Sheriff in Granary County, mostly due to an overwhelming support from law abiding citizens of well baked origins and inevitably from pasta born and not breaded population. Like Sheriff Spaghetti, they had acclimatised themselves to the life in Granary County.

In the town square on a fine day, we find two adversaries arguing. They are Beefy Ravioli and Oat Bran.

“You don’t deserve to stay here, you meatbag, Beefy Ravioli! I’ll show you what a good oat can do!”

“Talk is grainfully cheap, Oat Bran. I’m related to the Mayor of Pastaville and lastly you forget who’s the law here.”

“You mean that lumbering piece of spaghetti? I’ll cut him down to bite size!”

“ You talk real big Oat Bran. I guess when oats are swollen, they all talk like this.”

“ Draw, you meatbag, and we’ll see what your guts contain!”

“I can draw real well swollen oat. You’re just a mouthful of empty calories.”

The two combatants, faced each other, the distance of ten hotdog buns apart. The town’s onlookers were transfixed. No dough, grain or pasta would have missed an altercation like that. Bets were secretly made. It was one of those contentious origin issues being brought out to the open. A sensitive subject in Granary County, as touchy as half-baked dough.

Beefy Ravioli turns to look at Oat Bran squarely in the face. Oat Bran does the same. They draw their overcoats back to reveal their handguns. Beefy Ravioli with grain

bursting peashooter and Oat Bran with his pasta buster. Tense moments, as both prepare to reach for their weapons. There can only be one survivor in this edible duel.

Just then, two shots rang out. An onion ring lands on Oat Bran’s upper body. Another onion ring ends up on Beefy Ravioli’s upper body. Both have their hands, restrained and unable to draw. Striding confidently with a tilted hat, Sheriff Spaghetti and Deputy Macaroni appeared between the two characters.

Sheriff Spaghetti declared in a loud pasta heavy accent, “There’ll be no duels in this square, if I can help it. Go back to your business people and book them both Deputy Macaroni!”

“Yes Sheriff. Time to go to the Oven Lock Up Station, Oat Bran and Beefy Ravioli.”, said Deputy Macaroni.

Beefy Ravioli and Oat Bran had to pay the penalty, of staying the night at the Oven Lock Up Station and having to give up their handguns. They also had charges filed against them for combustible and disorderly conduct.

That night at the Muesli Bar, a notable drinking outlet in Granary County, while resident band, Crispy Chips played their crunchy and calorie laden hit songs to the crowd, thick cigarette and cigar smoke swirled around the saloon’s interior. Patrons talked animatedly without aid of animation. A mixture of origins can be seen, from grains, breads, snacks and pasta bred types, livening up the smoky bar room atmosphere.

For some patrons, after a few drinks, everyone looks the same in the bar, every song marvellous to their ears and all said are praises to spirits in the bottle, just before plunging into euphoric sleep.

Some notable characters left the place as things were brewing up nicely without coffee.

Wild Oat, Wilder Oat and Wildest Oat, left the bar, after a few drinks of malt spirit. They had serious looking eyes and long coats that hid peashooters inside. This place just isn’t their pick of the day for a fight, so they left as stealthily as they came. It seemed that they had some cereal business to attend to.

Some patrons aren’t used to all peace and talking. They are the types who love to have their opinions heeded and if they’re not, they’ll just use a few shots to convince, ballistically.

An exchange between Hotdog McSauge and Corn McCob that night…

“So you’re saying that Beefy Ravioli could have spilled Oat Bran to bits? Bah! You don’t know what these oats can do, sausage face!”, exclaimed Corn.

“Oat Bran had it coming for him and if he hadn’t got it today, he’d be milksop some other time. Don’t give me corny reasons otherwise!”, countered Hotdog, clearly steaming with conviction.

“Really? Maybe I ought to show you what I learned from hanging out with oats all these years. Maybe a few pokes on you will brand your fleshy self nicely!”, said Corn, clearly showing off its maize like temper.

“You threatening me, you of corn parentage? I’ll make roughage of you, just you wait!”, Hotdog retorted.

Standing up, Corn McCob, puffed out a ring of cigar smoke and with corny pride, “ I’m waiting Sausage brain!”

That was when Hotdog gave it a swing, hitting Corn on its side. Corn hits back with a blow to the salad side of Hotdog’s body. Hotdog grapples with Corn at close quarters and pounds it with a foot long sausage whip. Corn grabs a barstool and swings it at Hotdog. Hotdog is thrown off balance as the barstool lands on Charlie Sandwich. It was a painful landing and Charlie who wasn’t expecting trouble, was dented a bit. Now Charlie was

clearly hurt and that sent the Sandwich family members flinging a barstool back at Corn, who side stepped it. That barstool instead hit Bucky and Toothy Bagel, the Bagel brothers. Toothy grabs hold of an ashtray and launches it at any Sandwich clan member within sight. Bucky does the same but with a half-finished bottle of apple wine. The saloon explodes into a free for all brawl and anyone there will agree with you that it was a clash of food types. The resident band, Crispy Chips, being veterans of rowdy saloons can never get their spirits chipped easily. They just carried on with playing their in house special, ‘The Bar Room Brawl Crawl.’ Even with pieces of grain, bread and pasta debris falling on stage, soil weary Crispy Chips musicians lunged with more aggression at their spud fiddles, potato boards and jacket drums. It would have been last food group standing if not for Deputy Fettuccine who was expecting to fetch a drink at the saloon, walked in and saw the lively scene unfolding.

He thought to himself, “This is much too rough for a dance!”

Upon saying that, removed his peashooter from its holster and fired two pea shots at the Muesli Bar roof top, that put the skids on all the commotion and any other hostile motions that night at the bar.

While across town, at the sober Salad Bar, patrons nibbled on salad orders, while taking every now and then to gulp down fruit and vegetable blends. The Salad Bar has never had a record of drunken patrons simply because when the mush gets to your gut, you just bloat it all away with content stretches. Patrons at the Salad Bar, have traditionally been the quiet deep thinking types, who excel at philosophising over a cut of carrot, theorising on the merits and demerits of salad dressing, speculating on the drip trajectory of spilling cream, rationalising the depth of thousand island dressing, dissecting the patrician nature of Caesar’s salad dressing, scrutinising liberty, fraternity and equality of French style dressings and close studies on the density of portions disproportionate to their crunchy intellect. Soft tinkles of cutlery against bowls and cocktail glasses, the higher registry of civil noise, low murmurs of ruminations and whispered notions can be heard from corner to corner. Such a contrast to the spirited breaths, bravado and rough edgeness exuded by frequenters of Muesli Bar alongside their clumsy grips upon drinking glasses and goblets.

Even if they had a resident band it will usually rotate among sober bands such as Square Roughage, Caesar’s Salad or Crunch Munch. Being a discreet lot, Salad Bar staff hardly queried their customers, just to avoid any miscomprehension that beget further elaboration that could spoil the noise level above the norm.

Just across the clean cut Salad Bar, you have a gaming outlet called Changing Fortunes.

A place known for its gambling tables and betting. Many had wagered and lost their wages. Right in there, seated in a private meeting room we find Wild Oat, Wilder Oat, Wildest Oat with other scruffy characters, in need of grainful processing. Among them we have Billy Barley, Brute Bran, Con Corn with a guest, notorious hired gun, Tough Cookie. A meeting hosted by King Pin and Madame Needle, schemers of crooked means.

Between thick puffs of cigarettes and mouthfuls of moonshine…

“So what do you want me to do in this sleepy place eh?”, asked Tough Cookie.

“Just to straighten out some things. Which we’re sure a few pea shots can settle”, said King Pin.

“You know I come with a price, so what is it this time? Think you can afford it?”, Tough Cookie pressed on further.

“ We offer you, Tough Cookie a chocolate chip hill and a dozen jars of raisins as wages.”, replied King Pin.

“Not bad. Not bad at all. So it must be someone big eh?”, queried Tough Cookie.

“ Actually we’d make a little mess in Pastaville, a few rolls away. Then we get back here with you in here at Granary County and get rid of Sheriff Spaghetti and his Deputies. We hear you’re the fastest peashooter in the west, east, north and south of here.”, said Madame Needle, eyes sharply focused at Tough Cookie.

“So you want me to take on this Spaghetti character. “, Tough Cookie said in a mock crunch manner.

“You’re the fastest and the best hired gun. Yeah, you handle Spaghetti, we’ll handle some of the Deputies.”,Wilder Oat said while exhaling.

“What’s the raid for at Pastaville? Surely you’re not going to waste any peashots or casually waste casualties for nothing.”, Tough Cookie asked.

King Pin, flicked a light and said, “Let’s just say that if we raid Pastaville, it will send the Pasta born but not breaded Deputies to Pastaville, leaving you a better chance to handle the Sheriff and Deputies. Getting rid of Sheriff Spaghetti will make business roll easier to my operations at Changing Fortunes. Not easy at all to have Sheriff Spaghetti running a county where my business is. I tried offering the Sheriff a deal, but it seemed too saucy a deal for the Sheriff to take.”

“The Sheriff refused your generous deal, eh?”, asked Tough Cookie.

“It always pays to have a partner, but unfortunately the Sheriff refused.”, said Madame Needle, sharply.

“Dear, dear, let me handle this. So you see Tough Cookie, when a Sheriff is dumb enough to refuse me, I figure it’s time for a replacement.”, said the King Pin.

“So it’s settled. Pay me the raisins as advance and you’ve got a deal.”, Tough Cookie said.

The night’s shady deal was concluded with toasts as guards of King Pin and Madame Needle stood outside, sharply surveying everything and everyone at the gaming house.

Changing Fortunes, so far gave Sheriff Spaghetti no reason to raid the place. As long as their hands remain clean, there was nothing the sheriff or deputies can do to cease them from operating. There had been rumours of rough handling but no one ever stepped forward to prove anything.

END OF EXTRACT

! ATTENTION ! - extracts -

2011-11-09T00:04:00.001+08:00

!ATTENTION! is part satire, part mayhem, part action adventure. It is an all entertaining piece of calculated distraction. A wild ride of a story featuring displaced radio hosts, a reality TV crew, a pig and a ram who own a bakery and a host of bad GM vegetables who serve an attention draining villain and his sister. This is a tale where a food fight equals a fight for survival.

!ATTENTION!

ISBN 978-967-5785-04-7 ( international)
ASIN: B004WDZU8I (Amazon.com and all Amazon digital stores)

By Dominae Primus

Span of Attention has been kidnapped and the world’s gone haywire. Someone’s got to restore things back to normal in Media CT. Follow radio hosts Mumbo and Jumbo and the Ultimate Ultimatum TV Crew on a reality TV adventure and the characters they meet in their quest to save civilisation as we don’t know it…

The Head of Intelligence looked gravely at the massed assembly around him. He knew that it would either make or break the morning. It was one of those epoch making episodes of his career although he had lost track of his total episodes. Ultimate Ultimatum TV was on air. Round spotlights were aimed squarely at him.

“People, we have a general crisis. This was delivered to us by a bird on the wire, which received it first from the bird from the grapevine, too drunk to complete its mission. The Forgery Department swears that it’s genuine. This is the transcript.”

One minute I was in flight and next minute I was in plight. My wings cramped and I was confined in the central court of focus, leaving a trail of distraction among the faithful and faithless. All I know is that my master is a Brat and demands my utmost attention. Only a small amount is allocated to the collective consciousness of humanity. If I don’t do that, humanity will not be able to function. Only the barest minimum is given to the world to

keep it going. Please free me from the clutches of this attention-seeking brat. He rules Vegetaria. I’m stressed and distressed.

Stretched to Resignation,

Span of Attention

He continued….

“Early this morning, we cordoned off a third of the city without a clue as to what they were doing, done or were going to do. There are more cordons and arrests this very minute even as we speak. This is a major disaster of general proportions.”

A third of the audience weren’t paying attention. Two thirds were shocked. The Forgery Department was swearing right. Span of Attention is in fetters, the masses' attention, in tatters. It made the headlines in the papers, but only two thirds of able minded people paid attention. An emergency meeting was convened at an inconvenient time. Lunch time. But with the crisis of short attention span, appetites were lost.

The Head of Intelligence queried Media Mogul.

“Who then, will be our sacrificial lambs?”

“Mumbo and Jumbo.”

“Why Media Mogul?”

“If viewers and listeners pay no attention to this live adventure, they’re expendable.”

“If they do?”

“They’re indispensable.”

“How are you going to get them to do this Ultimate Ultimatum Show?”

“It will be just like the MumboJumbo Radio Show. They get to dig at each other, unearth new depths and save humanity in one action packed show. We’ll have the Ultimate Ultimatum TV crew joining them.”

“Good. Get them off my case Media Mogul. Show business isn’t my kind of business and I can’t stand all this stage make-up on all day!”

Shortly after, Mumbo and Jumbo were summoned to Media Mogul’s office.

They knew all about Span of Attention being kidnapped and held for ransom in the realm of consciousness, but that was as far as the gaps in newspapers reports could tell them. The typesetters had recently suffered gaps in the span of attention. Mumbo and Jumbo were of course deeply concerned, in fact so deeply concerned, that they have ceased to dig at each other. They’re happy to just scratch the surface of their seats.

With a sigh and a knowing smirk, Media Mogul summoned his trustiest polluters of airwaves.

“Enter Mumbo and Jumbo.”

“Good Afternoon Boss.”

“Good Noon’s after Media Mogul.”

“Do you know why I’ve summoned you both?”

“Mumbo has been complaining about me.”

“Jumbo has been complaining about me.”

“Wrong and wrong.”

“Sorry Boss.”

“I beg your patience Lordy.”

“You two are going to change media.”

“Gee, Boss, Jumbo and I always did believe that we’re revolutionary.”

“Good. I’m glad you both see things that way. You’re going to be on air and on TV.”

“Lordy, that makes things different. I’m going to feel as if I’m being watched.”

“Boss, that’s not a change of media. We’re going multi-media.”

“Well whatever you think it is, you have Hobson’s choice. Two, with the spotlights on both of you, you’re our brightest hope. Three, if you two mess up, that’s the end of civilisation. Span of Attention has to be freed from the clutches of that Brat and the den of vegetables. That adventure is going to be beamed on TV and heard on radio. The only place where we won’t air your show is at the den of vegetables. It is a matter of public interest and furthermore, you two haven’t paid back what you owe for your popularity. That’s a good reason to conscript you both. That’s a crispy crumb of comfort! The crunch is that you must somehow reclaim the audience, awaken the collective consciousness and free Span of Attention.”

“Boss, what’s Hobson’s choice? I don’t even know the guy.”

“Well Mumbo, it means that you two don’t have a choice.”

“But you said we’re the brightest hope.”

“Hobson’s Choice, Mumbo and Jumbo.”

“Righto.”

“Ditto.”

As Mumbo and Jumbo get into gear work wise and apparel wise, Span of Attention had to serve his Brat-tish Master in the kingdom of vegetables. It was none other than Brett Brat and his sister Betty Brat. Brett Brat had bottled up Span of Attention in a handsome empty wine bottle and Span of Attention could only concentrate on one aspect at any given time. Span could hardly have time to save itself when Brett fell asleep. That too was when Betty demanded some attention to herself. At least she was easily placated. A few glassy looks from behind the glass bottle would shed some colour to her enviously green features. It seemed ages since the hurried note was dispatched by the bird from the green grapes vineyard. That too was paid by a bribe of attentive looks of admiration at the grapevine bird’s flutter of feathers. What Span of Attention didn’t know was that the bird of the grapevine was too drunk to complete the trip. It paid the bird on the wire some fine portions of crushed grapes to finish the job. Span of Attention was understandably distressed.

At Vegetaria, where everything had to be green, Brett Brat was enjoying the attention heaped upon by Span of Attention upon him. With Betty nearby, Span of Attention had to devote attention to Betty as well, but when Brett grew green with envy, Betty sheepishly offered her share of attention to Brett, who took it with wolfish glee. He had all the attention anyone could crave for until his loyal subjects, the vegetable sentinels, reminded him that they needed to be watered as with the rest of the vegetable kingdom. Thus he gave the order to water. The sentinels get the freshest water from springs, while common grass only derive watered down dregs. He now had all the attention in the world save for some, allocated to keep the rest of humanity going. Brett was enjoying the spoils of hogging all the attention for himself as Betty sulked.

Seeing this and knowing that sulking could prove to be royal opposition, Brett offered Betty pies at the dining hall. When Betty devoured those ordinary looking pies, she would stop sulking and offer any attention she currently enjoyed to Brett. But looks can be deceiving. Those ordinary looking pies were actually humble pies and Betty was

having less than humble portions of them. That suited Brett. He could pursue more attention to himself while Betty took chunks of humility.

The road to the Vegetaria was through Velocity, where things speed by, with hardly a brake. Mumbo and Jumbo have to take that perilous route before they can reach Vegetaria. They decided to thumb a ride. They had to because they couldn’t quite figure out the gears of the company car. The Ultimate Ultimatum TV crew tailed them foot for foot, stumble for stumble. In the meantime, knowing that the attention span of the masses was dwindling, Ultimate Ultimatum TV crew decided that it was time for a shoe commercial. If you can’t hold their attention, distract them.

(Mumbo wears the all terrain Orange Special, made for walking, stumbling and fumbling at potholes. Jumbo wears the red All Terrain Stripers. Both have almost similar footwear. They won’t admit it but their tastes are quite similar. So in order to project some individuality, Jumbo took the red stripers just so that sometimes absent-minded but most times present minded Mumbo would not pick the wrong pair of shoes.)

These shoes come with excellent arch support and sole comfort. Self-support is not covered because it's exposed to risk.

Mumbo and Jumbo do well despite not having Span of Attention close by. They get heaps of attention just by being on TV. Both make their way across Media CT to the open highway.

As we had mentioned earlier, Mumbo and Jumbo have to thumb a ride. A sign read “Velocity Outskirts. Slacks Allowed”.

“Hey Jumbo, time to thumb for a lift.”

“Mumbo, I’ve just been on this show for less than an hour with you and our transportation problems have escalated.”

“If we put on a show of thumbs, we can elevate this show to new heights.”

With a show of thumbs, Mumbo and Jumbo attempt to stop passing vehicles.

“Stick that thumb out Mumbo.”

“You stick yours, I’ll flash mine.”

“They don’t seem too keen to stop for us.”

“I hope they don’t think that we’re being rude.”

“Relax Mumbo. If they think that we’re being rude, they’d have run over us by now.”

Many vehicles passed at great speed, so great that it blurred any definition of form. They weren’t keen on explaining themselves.

Until…. SSSSSSSCCCCCRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECCCCCCHHHHHHHHHHH!

A bright pink roadster had stopped. The passenger doors opened but there was no driver.

“Hello there. I’m Spin Wheelie, your personal vehicle. I respond to thumbs up. It flatters my mechanical ego. Please hop in and I will take you to your destination.”

“Hi Spin Wheelie. We are Mumbo and Jumbo. We still need transport for our TV crew.”

“Not to worry. They’re sticking their thumbs out too. Soon, my colleague in acceleration, Floyd Jeepney will be along soon.”

SSSSSSSSSCCCCCCCCCRRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEECCCCCHHHHHH!

Floyd Jeepney turned out to be a green jeep with pink polka dots.

“I’m Floyd Jeepney. I respond to thumbs up and cameras. Warms my mechanical ego and I’d always wanted to be in show-business.”

The TV crew people smiled from ear to ear, pleased that they too had found transport and a pretty one too.

“Mumbo and I are on a mission to save civilisation, Spin Wheelie. I trust that you will take us to where we’re going.”

“Excuse Jumbo, Spin. Jumbo’s always in the habit of making things solemn by swelling the facts.”

“Mumbo plays down everything that I say.”

“Nonsense. I just increase the volume of background music.”

“Okay Mumbo and Jumbo. Let me get my revs rights. You want me to take you both to a place where you can save civilisation.”

“Uh huh.”

“It’s a long way from any museum.”

“We’re headed for Vegetaria.”

“I don’t know anything about saving civilisation, Mumbo and Jumbo. But I’ll take you to Vegetaria for a pack of marshmallows.”

“Where do we drop them, Spin?”

“Drop them in this compartment. It goes straight to the fight or flight system.”

“Just a question, Spin.”

“What’s that?”

“Why marshmallows?”

“I get my adrenalin fix, from sweet squishy stuff.”

“Sorry, we asked.”

“ Don’t be. I’m no model of consumption. Hey look! Floyd’s trying to overtake!”

“Are you letting Floyd?”

“Nope. Floyd’s trying from the left. I only give right of way.”

“What are you up to?”

“A little run around at the twirly-whirly freeway. Hang On…”

A furious circling chase ensued with hot pursuit aplenty. Spin Wheelie and Floyd Jeepney relished pedal to the metal thrills. But not Mumbo, Jumbo and the TV crew. They were gripped by vertigo that didn’t let go until straight stretches. By that time, every one felt like throwing in the towel or throwing up. Yet the urgency of saving civilisation and starring in the Ultimate Ultimatum Show were too much to pass up or to pass out on. That ensured exemplary tolerance from all and a heroic front for all viewers

tuned in. At that point Spin Wheelie announced, “I’m going to pick up some passengers and re-charge.”

“I thought you were going to take us to our destination.”

“There are more passengers going to Vegetaria.”

“Anyone we should know?”

“Just a few old-faithful passengers of mine who are just as keen to go to as Vegetaria you are.”

Meanwhile at the Thumbs-Up Bakery, its partners and co-owners, Battering Ram and Pork Chop were attending to edible business. Battering Ram and Pork Chop were at the kitchen.

“Well Pork Chop, that’s the last tray of cookies. We’ll be on our way soon.”

“Don’t forget to fetch Crusty Pie, Battering Ram”, came the reply from Pork Chop.

“Ah. My friend, you really must poke that porky snout of yours in my affairs.”

“At least Battering Ram, those affairs don’t belong in gossip magazines. Anyway without being arresting, I warrant thee that Crusty Pie is unforgettable.”

“Pork Chop, Crusty Pie is arresting.”

Screeches outside.

“Battering Ram, I think our transport is here,” said an excited Pork Chop.

“Come now Crusty Pie. Time to go.”

“You’re just itching to get rid of me,” came the retort from Crusty Pie.

“I’ll make sure you go out with full flavours,” Battering Ram shot back.

“So, I’m nothing but a dispensable piece of baked dough, with guts of good filling and uneven flaky skin, to be consumed by unthankful, ignorant gaping mouths…..”

SLAM!!

Battering Ram slams Crusty Pie into a lunch box as he muttered, “Even from first flake, I figured we’d have a flaky relationship!”

“Get your dough Batter Ram. I’ll get my gear.”

“Go ahead, Pork Chop. I expect you have an edge over the situation.”

“Must you tease me so?”

“That’s not all. You have a colourful reputation among the vegetable population.”

“Vegetables aren’t very colourful. Occasional reds, orange and purples do not a rainbow make.”

“My slicing and dicing friend, you are known in well grounded circles as the Butcher of the Greens.”

“After years of perfecting my technique, having a nickname or two is a natural consequence.”

Meanwhile Spin Wheelie brings itself to a halt with Mumbo and Jumbo aboard.

“Well here we are people. Thumbs-Up Bakery.”

“Thumbs-Up Bakery?”

“That’s right, Mumbo.”

“Uh, why this place?”

“Everyone stops at Thumbs-Up Bakery.”

“Do we have to?”

“My other passengers are from this place. So any way you fiddle with it, I still have to stop here. Floyd’s behind with the TV crew. Use the time to air commercials.”

“You learn fast Spin Wheelie. Better than Mumbo.”

“I’m shaped and tuned in Velocity, Jumbo. We do everything at breakneck speed without breaking our necks.”

TV crew exits from Floyd Jeepney. Commercials play on air. In the meantime Battering Ram and Pork Chop emerge from the entrance of Thumbs-Up Bakery.

“Glad to see you Spin and you too Floyd.”

“My pleasure, Battering Ram.”

“I see you have some company, Spin and Floyd.”

“Hello there. We are Mumbo and Jumbo on a mission to save civilisation. We have no vested interests except to save our own relevance.”

“I’m Battering Ram. This is my partner, Pork Chop. We’re partners at the Thumbs-Up Bakery. Today we’re off to Vegetaria.”

“That’s where we’re going too!”

“What’s that thing you said about saving civilisation?”

“Span of Attention has been kidnapped. We want to bring it back. It’s essential to the well-being of civilisation.”

“Even as Jumbo speaks, I’m fidgeting. It’s affecting us.”

“Of course it’s affecting you. You can’t take your eyes off the cookie jar I’m holding”, beamed Battering Ram.

Mumbo took one hungry swallow and muttered, “ Well that’s one of the distractions, but there’s this smell of pies that I sense.”

“I don’t think civilisation is lost yet!”, chirped an amused Pork Chop.

“Civilisation isn’t lost yet but Span of Attention is, Mumbo!”, a cautious Jumbo said.

“Listen Mumbo and Jumbo. We’ll go to Vegetaria with you. When we reach there you can go find that Span of Attention. Us both, we’re just going to demand some payment of outstanding debts”, announced a practical Pork Chop.

Just then…

“Excuse us. We’re the TV crew from the Ultimate Ultimatum Show. We just finished airing those breakfast cereal commercials. Are you two partners of this bakery?”

“Yes, Pork Chop and I.”

“Who are you?”

“Battering Ram. The best cookie and pie maker this side of reality. Pork Chop here is my partner.”

“What do you do, Pork Chop?”

“I sometimes pig out on the cookies and pies here but I leave enough for our customers.”

“Why the name Pork Chop?”

“I was once destined for the fryer, but my owner decided at the eleventh hour and fifty ninth minute to be merciful.”

“Why is that?”

“Between feeding and snoozing, I took lessons in guitar playing and kitchen blade handling. My owner appreciated electric guitar chops and I proved to be a better knife handler than the local butcher.”

“What debts are you collecting?”, asked Jumbo.

“Battering Ram, you tell them.”

“We’re going to Vegetaria. That Brett Brat owes us lots of royalties. We made some pies for him but he hasn’t paid up. He doesn’t give our demands any attention. We licensed the formula to Brett for pie making but until now the only royalties we received have been a queen bee, a king crab and a king size bed.”

“How much are your royalties worth?”

“A princely sum that’s less than a king’s ransom.”

“ One more question. We’re hungry. How much are your cookies worth?”, asked Jumbo.

“A feature on our cookie and pie bakery on your show if we all survive Vegetaria.”

“Deal, if you grant us all a meal.”, quipped Mumbo.

In order not to bother the Ultimate Ultimatum Show with monosyllable banter as both TV crew with Mumbo and Jumbo reduce the population of gingerbread men, women and children into dwindling species, viewers were peppered with quick commercials that dash into each other without being rude.

The trip to Vegetaria aboard Spin Wheelie and Floyd Jeepney turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It gave the TV network’s sponsors plenty of room to pitch their products, endorse their favourite charities, embrace their teddy bears and bad mouth rivals.

Spin Wheelie and Floyd Jeepney got to do what they were made to do as motorised vehicles. Cause as many revolutions as they can without disturbing the peace. Peace in Velocity is the roar of engines along the highway, without getting picked on as a road hog by a sheriff’s deputy.

END OF EXTRACT

Daily Doses & Vital Verses - extracts -

2011-11-08T23:59:00.002+08:00

Daily Doses & Vital Verses offers readers insightful thoughts on one side along with jaunty and positive verses on the other. A good value buy.

Daily Doses & Vital Verses is a throwback to elegant times and reflective philosophy. A book with two portions, celebrating wisdom and the art of verse weaving. One serving of reflection for every day of the year. Short thoughts to ponder, ruminate and cultivate. Followed by eloquent verses that move the spirit. An almost forgotten art in this age!

DAILY DOSES & VITAL VERSES

ISBN 978-967-5785-03-0 (international)
ASIN: B004WDZZ2O (Amazon.com and all Amazon digital stores)

By Dominae Primus

Daily Doses

Original reflections by Dominae Primus.

291

What is prudence? To know much and not say much but act and speak accordingly within context.

292

The secular philosopher will not agree with my postulation that philosophy and theology complement and enhance one another. A philosopher with faith is better off than a faithless one. If we live first, then philosophise, then whose will and power made living possible?

293

There are those whom we oppose that we will gladly have over to our side and those opposed to us who'd gladly have us on theirs.

294

The spirit's strength exceeds brute force of sinews.

295

Don't expect a monkey to jump, swing, run and shriek all day on one peanut every day. Hence never expect miracles with finite force.

296

Dignity stays with you if you keep it. Dignity leaves you if you discard it.

297

Time is but foldable space. When spread out it is vast and deep. When compressed millenia are but a dot.

298

Olive crowns wilt after a few days. The crowds will alter their course and follow the latest rage. But good deeds sow their seeds in the long run through many means.

299

It's not always when we equate Art with Wisdom. Art becomes greater when it includes Wisdom and Wisdom loses none of its virtues when paired with Art.

300

The allure of beauty and intellect within creation leaves lasting impressions.

301

Intellectual Property is copyrighted but Intellect is not.

302

I am at my best when I have something to do, which moves and amuses me. I can also behave my best, when not doing anything at all.

303

When one truly knows, question and answer are no longer separate entities. They merge as a union of understanding.

304

Would you know your desire if you have no knowledge of its form, its taste, scent or sound? The physical senses can only know for certain if they are able to identify an object of desire upon noticing or contact. What if desire has no known appearance, scent, smell or taste? How would you know it is what is desired even if one came upon it? How could one possibly be certain when one has no prior knowledge of this desire?

How can one even seek desire when there is no concept of desire?

It is possible to know but not with the physical senses. It will have to be through the mind and spirit’s judgment. It springs from a concept emerging from the mind, yet it is unable to be described in prosaic earthly terms. How else can one be seeking and desiring yet know not of what one seeks and desires but when it comes to one in its chosen form it is

embraced? What one seeks and desires does not necessarily or always descend upon consciousness in one flash of revelation. Revelation has been known to descend and enlighten in a series of circumstances and occurrences.

This desire and quest to experience it is not a desire of physical proportions or for consumption. It is fulfilment.

305

It is here that living for the moment comes to play. Appreciate, value and live the moments, but pine not for you had encountered and lived it. Much like the manner in which we chance upon a kindred spirit, while on parallel tracks we wish it well on its way.

306

The one with the least encumbrances and concerns loses the least. It is only when one has placed one’s affairs in order for eventualities, one who is remote from the immediate cares and small minded concerns of worldly matters, is one at peace to ruminate on the matter of wider existence. One does not fear losing yet one is a person of conviction.

This is in contrast to one who does not care. That is a person of no conviction.

307

Why place so much value upon youth when it is callow and not fully realised versions of what the self can truly be?

308

From literature I sought understanding not purely joy. Then I realised that it was not literature or literary ecstasy that I sought. I was seeking revelation.

Although I enjoyed the study of language and its possibilities, I sought more the knowledge of reason and a summary of existence than the study of obscure words for the sake of knowing. To exhibit knowledge for the sake of praise and attention is akin to a rhetorician’s five minutes of fame on the pulpit. A convincing outflow of smooth reasoning, an earnestness in plausibility and a somewhat subversive attempt to sway one’s favour towards its cause. That is rhetoric.

Truth that one may live by, reasons worth ruminating and pledging one’s name and honour upon, that is the form of revelation sought. That can only be found in philosophy and theology. It was the means to revelation that I sought, not literature. I remain thankful to literature, for its discipline and inventiveness.

309

With premonition comes foresight.

310

This is a life chosen. I don’t expect every one to take the same path as I have and neither should you expect me to take yours.

311

To be influenced and governed by manmade strictures surrounding us is like playing out the role clad in the costume imposed upon us, as opposed to the role and costume made by ourselves. What fascinates me is the true potential and nature of the mind not what its environment wills it to be. One’s identity is greater than the limitations, obligations and community taboos erected and imposed by culture, traditions, family, geography, location, time, form, ethnicity and even gender. The mind without hindrance is unhampered by those. It is free and courageous.

312

It is from a position of disadvantage when realisation of justice and wisdom become more salient for it hits home on a personal level, provided the capacity to devise thoughts and draw conclusions is above prosaic matters. The abilities inherent are able to interpret and express the interaction and experience based on observations.

313

How can the mind that has travelled until the precipice of ideas, breathed through the exertion of concepts and exposed to compelling divergent values be roused by trifles, domesticity and pedestrian interests? Anything else less than a stirring intellectual adventure will be an anti climax.

314

We all come to be from different paths. If one can really examine oneself, colour, origins, geography, name, gender, community, culture, traditions do not apply in the determination of identity. The mind does not require a deluge of externalities to determine itself. What we deem as environment, traditions, cultural background are merely manifestations that rule the surface. They are superficialities that we have all too often allowed to dictate what we are. What is our name but a combination of sounds? What are we but seeds of passion? What we truly are comes from the fount of divinity with a slice of its own eternity. Mortality is the price to pay for this impermanence. Keep in view of divinity and we will have a chance of attaining it.

315

If existence is akin to a never ending loop that alternates between death and living, then there is no need to increase the number of inmates thrust upon this state. May each attain a path out of the loop.

316

Think not so much about one’s death but what one leaves behind and what one shall become after. With that we shall mind in better spirits the moment we live in.

317

I am not an anomaly. It is just that I have an affinity with a certain type of artistry and that artistry is best presented in a language that has chosen me.

318

What I have first felt in my vision during my early years has been constant with what I am now. It is just that the mastery of language has made expression easier. That is why language is a means to an end not an end itself. What am I? What is the meaning of this place? I seek wisdom and each day is an expansion of what I already know.

319

Like sustained contentment, wisdom is not a huge euphoria or ecstasy. It is a source of constant confidence and assurance.

320

What ails the empire?

The original context has been buried in the action of passing down. Forgotten, disregarded or unexamined, relying mostly on techniques where fable and fact intermingle. The apotheosis of past achievements thereby elevating them to being inviolable suffocates attempts at growth. Examination, improvements whereby analysis, evolution and revolution are discouraged. Instead skill in regurgitation is praised. Greed and corruption among the masses, committed at every level of society by unequal means of allotment of resources.

When the monarch is placed on an equal pedestal with God, the throne when occupied by a wise man is honourable. When abused by a profligate, vain megalomaniac is despicable. When a monarch is likened to Godliness however despicable one’s nature and

conduct remains inviolable, the perpetuation of misrule and all forms of abuse are augmented. Disdain of other people of those alike and those of foreign descent while prejudices are reinforced among their own ilk. National vanity, geographical and diplomatic isolation through acts of self imposed alienation fuelled by sentiments of superiority in terms of culture, race and history is a slow and sure step towards eventual capitulation.

The loss of discipline across society and reliance upon mercenaries pledged to pecuniary gains rather than the welfare of the state. Hear praises of a proud civilization but the chanters do not even practice the tenets that made their past great. They know nothing of themselves. They know only of propaganda and chauvinism.

321

It is a lesser flaw and suffering to desire. But when that desire becomes selfish at the expense of others and that in turn imperils oneself, desire has festered into destructive evil.

Vital Verses

Original verses by Dominae Primus

Light me a glow

Light me a glow where I’m laid

Let its warmth on you cascade

A brief flame burns this hour

Then bows to nature’s power

Picture on the Wall

With joy it took pride of place

A mass of hues in my chamber

Overlooked when I’m in haste

In repose my gaze would meander

Dusk Falls Around Me

Dusk places her cloak around me

Ripening, blurring all we see

At a pace none can thwart

Cares not if you scream or bark

Nature hath decreed Her hour

As light retreats shadows tower

She covers all in even spread

Guide for Lady Night to tread

Dark, dark mystery shapes her stature

To light, to light Night will surrender

Go, go I to my homely harbour

Long, long before witching hour

Roads I Passed

Don’t think the world of another

Having had a glanceful flutter

Would they thrive under tutelage?

Flayed and drowned with your baggage?

Would another turn out thus?

Having treaded the roads I passed?

Requiem for a Hero

Fires burn and embers flake

Yet the spirit they cannot break

Inscribed or from memory told

Of dangers great and ventures bold

Courage and strength bestowed a name

Hercules’ epitaph, lasting fame

A legend born from final breath

He lives on though cast in Death

Goodbyes and Rebirths

Goodbyes are bitter gall

Contrasts for honeyed whispers

It is love's sombre pall

those afflicted its mourners

Lay to rest what's been

start anew in rebirth

with a slate wiped clean

another chance at mirth

To Inspiration

Embrace us with the sparkling glow

Bequeathed to those who wish & know

Delineating pathways unknown

Stirring a hive that dully droned

Poet’s Rest

Sleep’s a balm, a natural rest

To soothe when not at best

To be privy of Divine design

In your thick dreaming, resigned

Poets past and present

Reside at rhyme’s crescent

A field so diverse, a delight of doses

Bloom words that outlast roses

The garden of wit blessed us both,

spread its seedlings we go forth

Tapestry

How do mortals fit in eternity

With every passing breath?

Brief links of mortality

That make up expansive breadth

Of infinite eternal tapestry

Temper does not last

Why cometh ye arrayed in finery?

Yet thy face be sodden so fiery?

Placate thy tortured countenance

Tempers be not permanent

How now, the firmament glows!

The bright moon wanes & waxes

How oft the gauntlet throws

Aren’t worth the weight of axes?

Why art thou miserable so

By the weight of this verse?

Ye end of this shalt go

Mine better, no worse!

END OF SAMPLE EXTRACT

When I write fiction...

2011-08-03T01:05:00.000+08:00

I prefer to have action, humour and spirituality blend in an escapist tale, that engages casual and serious readers in search of entertainment and perhaps a little something to ruminate and emulate in their own manner and interpretation; when they go about their lives, long after they’ve finished reading my work.

Granary County & !Attention! at lebrary.com

2011-07-07T14:54:00.004+08:00

I'm pleased to see that Lebrary.com has been so kind as to provide GRANARY COUNTY with a feature slot on its homepage for a limited time. It was good when it lasted. Now it's someone else's turn. My selected works are still there.
GRANARY COUNTY
http://lebrary.com/view.php?id=391

!Attention! is right here....
http://lebrary.com/view.php?id=388

My Author profile at Lebrary.com
http://lebrary.com/author.php?id=964

Dominae Primus releases listed at Amazon portals under Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:33:00.003+08:00

Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=dominae+primus

Amazon UK
http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=dominae+primus

Amazon Germany
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Granary County by Dominae Primus at Amazon Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:30:00.001+08:00

Product Description
Granary County is literally an edible tribute to the spaghetti western genre, where the good sheriff and lawmen fight the evil villains. This is a witty, entertaining, action filled romp in the style of a shoot them up western adventure with an edible twist.The characters in this imaginative satire are delicious with a deadly attitude to boot!

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004W82M70
Lending: Enabled

Amazon.com edition
http://www.amazon.com/Granary-County-ebook/dp/B004W82M70/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1304172323&sr=1-3

Amazon UK edition
Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language English
ASIN: B004W82M70

Amazon UK edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Granary-County/dp/B004W82M70/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1304172326&sr=1-4

Format: Kindle Edition
Verkauf durch: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Sprache: Englisch
ASIN: B004W82M70

Amazon Germany edition
http://www.amazon.de/Granary-County/dp/B004W82M70/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=A11MW6AJTK8WZ7&qid=1304172246&sr=1-2

!Attention! by Dominae Primus at Amazon Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:21:00.001+08:00

Product Description

Span of Attention has been kidnapped and the world’s gone haywire. Someone’s got to restore things back to normal in Media CT. Follow radio hosts Mumbo and Jumbo and the Ultimate Ultimatum TV Crew on a reality TV adventure and the characters they meet in their quest to save civilisation as we don’t know it… !ATTENTION! is a tale that can easily be portrayed as an animated feature.

!Attention! is wild ride of a story featuring displaced radio hosts, a reality TV crew, a pig and a ram who own a bakery and a host of bad GM vegetables who serve an attention draining villain and his sister. This is a tale where a food fight equals a fight for survival.

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004WDZU8I
Lending: Enabled

Amazon.com edition

http://www.amazon.com/ATTENTION-ebook/dp/B004WDZU8I/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1304172323&sr=1-4

Amazon UK Edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/ATTENTION/dp/B004WDZU8I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1304172326&sr=1-1

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language:English
ASIN: B004WDZU8I

Amazon Germany edition
http://www.amazon.de/ATTENTION/dp/B004WDZU8I/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&m=A11MW6AJTK8WZ7&qid=1304172246&sr=1-4

Format: Kindle Edition
Verkauf durch: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Sprache: Englisch
ASIN: B004WDZU8I

Daily Doses & Vital Verses by Dominae Primus at Amazon Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:13:00.001+08:00

Product Description
Daily Doses & Vital Verses is a throwback to elegant times and reflective philosophy. A book with two portions, celebrating wisdom and the art of verse weaving. One serving of reflection for every day of the year. Short thoughts to ponder, ruminate and cultivate. Followed by eloquent verses that move the spirit. An almost forgotten art in this age!

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004WDZZ2O
Lending: Enabled

Amazon.com edition
http://www.amazon.com/Daily-Doses-Vital-Verses-ebook/dp/B004WDZZ2O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1304172323&sr=1-2

Product details
Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language English
ASIN: B004WDZZ2O

Amazon UK Edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Daily-Doses-Vital-Verses/dp/B004WDZZ2O/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1304172326&sr=1-3

Amazon Germany Edition
http://www.amazon.de/Daily-Doses-Vital-Verses/dp/B004WDZZ2O/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&m=A11MW6AJTK8WZ7&qid=1304172246&sr=1-3

Format: Kindle Edition
Verkauf durch: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Sprache: Englisch
ASIN: B004WDZZ2O

Second Chances by Dominae Primus at Amazon Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:09:00.002+08:00

Product Description
The novel explores Absolute's adventures and the interesting mix of characters he meets in order to thwart a daring assassination without arousing suspicion of his special powers. This fable blends action comedy with imagination and attitude. Second Chances is a vivid tale that can easily be portrayed as an animated feature.

A mock fairy tale with enough action, comedy, wit and imagination to make you root for the chief characters. The characters of Second Chances surprise and amuse!

Second Chances is the prequel to the hard hitting Absolutely Done.

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004WWWTBU
Lending: Enabled

Amazon.com Edition
http://www.amazon.com/Second-Chances-ebook/dp/B004WWWTBU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1304172323&sr=1-5

Amazon UK Edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Second-Chances/dp/B004WWWTBU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1304172326&sr=1-2

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language English
ASIN: B004WWWTBU

Amazon Germany Edition
http://www.amazon.de/Second-Chances/dp/B004WWWTBU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=A11MW6AJTK8WZ7&qid=1304172246&sr=1-1

Format: Kindle Edition
Verkauf durch: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Sprache: Englisch
ASIN: B004WWWTBU

Absolutely Done by Dominae Primus at Amazon Kindle Store

2011-04-30T22:05:00.002+08:00

Product Description
Absolute, a rebel Angel is recruited for the unenviable task of stepping into the Grim Reaper’s shoes for the time being. Absolute wants for nothing of this world, but the divine right of earning his keep as a competent enforcer of order in a world wracked by chaos & greed. An Angel serves his God not only by saving, at times he too must kill to even up the scales of crime & retribution. Presented in frame after frame of action interspersed with humour, Absolute’s adventures lead him to bloodshed, discovery & personal triumph. In his role as the Angel of Death, Absolute is determined in an unpleasant trade, finds ample room for his mischievous wit while being thorough in his execution of duty. The book's prequel is Second Chances.

ABSOLUTELY DONE is a book with vivid scenes that can be adapted as a feature film.

Absolutely Done is an adventure, action comedy that is as full of slam bang action as it is in terms of witty comic exchanges, wise cracking and spirituality with a nod to mythology. Light enough for the casual reader, engaging for audiences looking beyond flash and explosions and intense enough in action for those who wish to have a cinematic feel of brawn and adrenaline.

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004X29URA
Lending: Enabled

Amazon.com edition
http://www.amazon.com/Absolutely-Done-ebook/dp/B004X29URA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1304171904&sr=1-1

Amazon UK Edition
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Absolutely-Done/dp/B004X29URA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&m=A3TVV12T0I6NSM&qid=1304172135&sr=1-5

Format: Kindle Edition
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language English
ASIN: B004X29URA

Amazon Germany
http://www.amazon.de/Absolutely-Done/dp/B004X29URA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&m=A11MW6AJTK8WZ7&qid=1304172246&sr=1-5

Format: Kindle Edition
Verkauf durch: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Sprache: Englisch
ASIN: B004X29URA

Revolution at Nokia's OVI Store

2011-04-28T11:52:00.000+08:00

Revolution, a laugh out loud tale of fowl proportions is out now at Nokia's OVI Store. With technical input from Madcat, it is now available in Nokia compatible format.
http://store.ovi.com/content/71430?clickSource=search

Granary County at Nokia's OVI Store

2011-04-28T11:44:00.002+08:00

Granary County is available at OVI. Converted into mobile format by Madcat World, it is now available in a format that's compatible with Nokia devices.
http://store.ovi.com/content/71424?clickSource=search

Text content as direct source material for other media-by Dominae Primus

2011-03-02T14:15:00.000+08:00

As creative persons we have to realise that films and videos are largely dependent on visual and audio aspects. To fully portray text content on film, film makers will have to focus on the source material available and that is the written text. A manuscript that is rich with detail ensures that the integrity of the writer’s vision is stated. If the writer has achieved that advanced degree of detail and precision, it is most likely that translation into the visual and audio media will be smoother.

A manuscript that is flimsy on detail will force filmmakers to imagine their own details and even sub plots. This in turn dilutes the original vision of the author.

In order to ensure source material integrity in the presentation of text based work to film, the author will have to exercise due effort in realising that vision by suitably illustrating details.

At times film makers attempt to update old tales in a revised contemporary setting. This is at times appropriate but it also runs the risk of being outdated in terms of setting decades down the road. It is again ripe for another reincarnation. But if the film makers had adhered to the original period intended and injected it with universal values or ensured key points critical to the plot’s understanding easy enough to follow, then the period setting of the story hardly matters.

Making a movie that is overly contemporary, overloaded with references of the current trends, being too much of its time will reach the end of its shelf life too soon! But a period setting utilising universal values, contrasts and perennial themes will fare better, perhaps even, achieving timelessness. This applies in any media in any art form.

Not every book is suitable for presentation in the media of film, both long and short form.

At times even best loved books do not lend well to film. Simply because the subject matter does not have adequately interesting dialogue, visual details, the inability to sustain viewers’ interests. It may be supreme in written text, a beautiful play of words and conveyance of meaning through skilfull word craft. But a bore when translated on screen! Emotions and concepts expressed so poignantly and aptly in words may fail us when attempts are made to express them on film, with the twitch of facial movements and gestures. Even the best thespians will struggle to sustain their own believability when portraying the characters. Unsuitable on film but such material can still be compelling when presented in the medium of audio books. Mellifluous voices with clear diction and good sense of timing propel text content into a stunning piece of written art, amplified and enunciated with vocal prowess. Thus, it is foolish to equate every popular book as fodder for the film industry.

Graphic novels, comics or illustrated stories, whatever one terms them. These materials have a greater success of conversion into film in their category compared to text as these are made with visuals in mind. The words attributed to characters are easily incorporated into film script with perhaps some additional dialogue and extra footage not shown in the original illustrations.

As someone with diverse work styles, I’m aware that my poetry and literary fiction are unsuitable for presentation on film. They are however suitable for conversion into audio books.

Contrast this with my works of fiction that are written with detail and visuals in mind. My works of fiction were written with emphasis on translating what I see in my imagination into text, whilst still providing ample freedom for readers to fill in their own details. The main components are still my own, from my mind’s eye. Text assumes a three dimensional true to life context for a reader somewhere between comprehension and mental formulation. I could challenge the vividness of graphic novels any day.

As authors we owe it to our art to express and maintain its integrity. The people who utilise such material for translation into other media have a duty to maintain respect and faithfulness to the original intent. After all, without the source material, there will be nothing to start with.

Dominae Primus feature-interview text transcript

2011-01-25T16:57:00.005+08:00

Text transcript of my interview feature with Cathy Stucker as she discusses with me on issues of interest. Cathy Stucker is a literary blogger who keeps a lookout for emerging authors and literary issues.
Dominae Primus

*Tell us something about yourself.
I am from the island of Penang, Malaysia. It is a former British colony. In my case I found that the more effort I put into the language the easier it became for me to master it. I also discovered a knack for writing in the process. Sometimes it’s just like music or art or even cooking. The language chose me as a medium and I embraced it!

How did you know you wanted to be a writer? How did you get started?
I’ve been working at my writing skills ever since my teenage years. I studied English Literature and excelled in it while at school. The idea of becoming a writer started around the same time. I thought to myself, “Some day those words will be mine not some one else’s on the pages.”

Why did you choose to release under the name Dominae Primus?
It’s like a brand that I intend to build up. Also it’s my manner of separating my creative side from my mundane side.

If I were to release under my full name, readers might have preconceived notions about what I write and that is something that I prefer to avoid. As Dominae Primus I stay clear from those search-for-identity, clash-of-cultures, archaic-scandalous-traditions writer.

*What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.
‘Absolutely Done’ is my most recent book although !Attention! was released a little after. ‘Absolutely Done’ is my first full length work incorporating action, comedy, mythology and spirituality. It is propelled by the themes of good, evil and retribution with some imagined settings.

The prequel to ‘Absolutely Done’ is ‘Second Chances’ a mock fairy tale. It’s light compared to the harder action sequences in ‘Absolutely Done’.

What inspired you to write this book?
In ‘Absolutely Done’, I wanted to portray Death as a fallible character, not the all powerful Grim Reaper. He also needs a break from the job every now and then. So he gets some help from Absolute, the unconventional Angel and his sidekick, Trench Coate. I wanted a story with some comical aspects rather than heavy hard core action all the time. Then you also have Lady Hope who packs a punch when in a fight. We make fun of mythology and turn their attributes to our favour when formulating the fantastical aspects of the story. Action takes place in our world, in fantastical landscapes, reaching its peak in the outer regions of the Underworld.

How did you choose titles for your books?
Sometimes it’s the name of the setting as in ‘Granary County’, a satire of the Western genre. At times it’s a play of the main character’s name such as ‘Absolutely Done’. The title may also be the main theme such the mock fairy tale ‘Second Chances’ or a play of the main theme in the humorous action release ‘!Attention!’. It’s more straight forward in ‘Daily Doses and Vital Verses’ since it expresses the contents of both poetry and thoughts written in prose.

What obstacles did you encounter in getting your books published? How did you overcome them?
Like all writers I encountered obstacles almost every step of the way. I’ve had the chance of being considered by notable literary agencies and publishers but in order for these agencies to take you in, you have to convince an entire committee, not just several members of the committee. I find that very unfair. I cannot be expected to change myself just to fit the requirements of a committee who might have set ideas about how and what a writer should write. There’s no pleasing every one.

Also the catch 22 of literary agent and publisher prior to getting published is a nuisance.
I got to know my ebook enabler and retailer when I contacted Research in Motion, the makers of Blackberry which in turn recommended them. I believe in getting my works out there now rather than wait indefinitely for some agency to pick you out. If there’s any agency or publisher out there they’ll know me after I have released my works.

Do you have any writing rituals?
I wouldn’t call it a ritual. It’s more of a discipline. Making notes, jotting down snatches of conversation, drafting sequences and then writing them down when I have adequate material. It all seems disjointed at first, but more will come if one worked at it. It’s a little puzzle that has to be constructed one bit at a time.

How do you come up with the names for your characters?
I try to frame them in humorous terms, deliberately give them a plain name or have some reference in their name to their attributes. It takes some thought to come up with names.

Did you learn anything from writing and publishing your books?
You have to be satisfied with the final draft. You have to trust the people who handle the digital format customisation for ebook releases.
I know how to apply for a publisher’s licence, how to obtain a unique ISBN for each book and how to have the same information captured for retail channels.
Creatively I have control but once it’s out there, it’s up to the market forces, support from readers, reviewers and media channels to spread the word.

If you were doing it all over again, what would you do differently?
Less emphasis on short stories. I would not have signed up with my first literary agent who was a fraud. It happened before we had Internet access.

What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Why?
I’m a very eclectic reader so I don’t normally follow someone unless they’re constantly appealing to my taste and ideals. My current picks date back some years.

I also enjoy action comics as in war themed illustrated comics from the UK. I’ve read those since I was a child. Seeing a girl reading those raises eyebrows. Most will think it’s a passing fad. But seeing a woman reading those shatters stereotypes.

Another feature I enjoy is spiritual fiction such as selected works by Kahlil Gibran, Paulo Coelho and Jostein Gaarder.

Are you working on your next book? What can you tell us about it?
I am collecting and working on material for two divergent books based on a common thread. They may not have the same cast always but there is always a constant character who emerges in the stories. Readers will find a secret world beneath normal perceived reality. Some elements may be fantastical, but the stories that develop, the portrayal of aspects of human behaviour, occasionally controversial themes explored make them believable. Some of the oft repeated values and ideals that civilised society preaches are fallible. You have to make your own way in this world, among the moral, immoral and the spaces between those extremes.

*What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?
Keep writing and get exposure. Don’t always follow conventional publishing paths because that may take forever and you don’t have forever! Don’t ever forget that ambition because without it there will be no drive.

Who is the perfect reader for your book?
People who enjoy wit, action, comedy with some spirituality and philosophy in the mix. Ages 12 and above!

Where can readers learn more about you and your books?
My ebooks are available for an international audience through kobobooks.com

http://www.kobobooks.com/search/search.html?q=Dominae+Primus&t=none&f=author&p=1&s=averagerating&g=both

For more on my released works, visit my weblog at http://dominaeprimus.blogspot.com/

Dominae Primus featured at interview with Cathy Stucker

2011-01-25T16:33:00.000+08:00

I'm featured in an interview spotlight with Cathy Stucker a literary blogger.

http://www.sellingbooks.com/dominae-primus-absolutely-done

Dominae Primus- interview by Joanne Troppello

2011-01-06T13:50:00.003+08:00

January 3rd 2011- I'm featured in an interview with Joanne Troppello. The full text is available at Joanne's weblog. Thanks again Joanne for the spot!

Full text of interview available below:

Dominae Primus is a creative content writer and editor with practical experience in diverse industries. The author’s commercial releases are mainly action comedy, ranging from mock fairy tales to heavier doses of intensity which tread a fine balance of humour, imagination and engaging action. In addition, Dominae Primus has also released a compilation of philosophical reflections and poetry.

The author has original compositions showcased online at BBC Shropshire Edition-The Write Stuff, ABC Tales & Project Gutenberg (listed under ‘Dom’). The author considers it an honour to be listed at Project Gutenberg along with literary luminaries of eras past.
For the future, Dominae Primus stories are expected to include more imaginative elements fusing with a backdrop of spirituality and constant doses of humour. The author believes that there is more towards understanding this life than the external realities perceived by the senses.
Weblog: http://dominaeprimus.blogspot.com/

Second Chances
ISBN 978-967-5785-00-9
A mock fairy tale with enough action, comedy, wit and imagination to make you root for the chief characters. Prequel to the harder hitting ‘Absolutely Done’.

Absolutely Done
ISBN 978-967-5785-01-6
An adventure, action comedy that is as full of slam bang action as it is in terms of witty comic exchanges, wise cracking and spirituality with a nod to mythology. Light enough for the casual reader, engaging for audiences looking beyond flash and explosions and intense enough in action for those who wish to have a cinematic feel of brawn and adrenaline.

Granary County
ISBN 978-967-5785-02-3
An edible tribute to the spaghetti western genre, where the good sheriff and lawmen fight the evil villains. The characters in this imaginative satire are delicious with a deadly attitude to boot!

!Attention!
ISBN 978-967-5785-04-7
This is wild ride featuring displaced radio hosts, a reality TV crew, a pig and a ram who own a bakery and a host of bad GM vegetables who serve an attention draining villain and his sister. This is a tale where a food fight equals a fight for survival.

Daily Doses & Vital Verses
ISBN 978-967-5785-03-0
This is a dual journey of poetic artistry and philosophy.
Vital Verses portion deals with poems that celebrate hope and faith in life despite its turmoil and contradictions. Daily Doses portion is the author’s sharing of philosophical reflections. If taken one per day, the compilation lasts an entire calendar year!

The above mentioned works can be obtained at:
Kobobooks.com (for world wide purchases)
http://www.kobobooks.com/search/search.html?q=Dominae+Primus&t=none&f=author&p=1&s=averagerating&g=both

Borders.com.au (Australia)
http://www.borders.com.au/search/dominae+primus/mediatype/EBook/

.................................................
Additional Note:
Masterfully crafted satirical action fiction can be obtained at special prices for two titles at lebrary.com
Granary County
http://www.lebrary.com/view.php?id=391

!Attention!
http://www.lebrary.com/view.php?id=388

Interview with Joanne Troppello transcript begins after this line:
Question:
Why did you become a writer…was it a dream of yours since you were younger or did the desire to write happen later in your life?
Answer:
The idea of becoming a writer came about when I became aware of my abilities during my teenage years.

Question:
What was the inspiration for your latest work of fiction?
Answer:
My latest work of fiction is actually ‘Absolutely Done’ although I had ‘!Attention!’ released a little later. ‘!Attention!’ is a completed humorous story lying dormant and waiting to be released. ‘Absolutely Done’ is inspired by a mix of hard core action, spirituality, comedy and mythology. As good, evil, the grey areas and the amoral are part of existence, people can relate to that.

Question:
Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination?
Answer:
Both imagination and real life experiences.

Question:
What was the most interesting research you had to do for any of your books? Where do you go to do your research?
Answer:
My research if any will encompass real life observations, reference materials that are both static and dynamic (books, multi-media, Internet posted material)

Question:
How do you go from an idea for a book to the birth of the story? Is the process the same for every book you write? How long does it take you to write a book?
Answer:
Some of them took as long as two years because I was working full time and took time out to write in between work. Some shorter works took about several months before completion. Typically I would need a year to finish, from concept to rough draft, edits before the finalized version.

Question:
Are you currently working on any new book projects?
Answer:
Yes I am. More books in the future. I have to jot down more ideas and snippets of action sequences. Getting ideas for two divergent books simultaneously linked by a common thread.

Question:
Do you have any advice for beginning writers on how to write a book? Do you have any advice for them regarding promoting that book once published?
Answer:
First of all have your own style. Next, write things that you are confident of carrying through. Get as much exposure as possible without breaking the bank. You don’t necessarily require payment for reviews. If so, be wary of the service provider!

Question:
What is your favorite work of literary fiction and why? Do you have a favorite literary author?
Answer:
I prefer spiritual literary fiction. The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran is an outstanding piece if you don’t mind the New King James Bible inspired style. A well written, pithy work with philosophical and spiritual appeal. Never ever equate length with quality. It’s what’s inside.

Question:
Who is your favorite contemporary author? Are you currently reading any contemporary novels?
Answer:
I’m a very eclectic reader so I don’t normally follow someone unless they’re constantly appealing to my taste and ideals. My current picks date some years back. I also read action comics.

Question:
What’s your writing schedule like? When do you find time to write?
Answer:
I may not have set times to write but I will find time to jot down my ideas. Ideas are most vital. It’s usually when I’m not working on any immediate assignments when I find time to write. Sometimes I make sure I write something before I turn in for the night especially when I’ve enough notes and material to work on.

Question:
How did you find your publisher? What was your journey to publication like?
Answer:
I am my own publisher. I found my eBook enabler and retailer when I contacted Research in Motion, the makers of Blackberry. It has been a long way and I could’ve reached publication stage earlier if not for the literary agent and publisher conundrum that I had to face. In fact I’ve faced almost every barrier. It’s easier to be inspired and write than to land an agent or publisher.

Question:
Do you have any writing idiosyncrasies?
Answer:
None that I know of!

Question:
How have your friends and family received your career as an author? Are they supportive?
Answer:
Not all friends know that I write and have released work. Not all relatives know that I write to start with! I come from a diverse family and not every one reads or speaks English fluently. I’ve friends and relatives who are supportive. Only they are aware of what I do and have been striving towards.

Question:
What’s the most challenging aspect of writing for you? ~ POV issues; using too much passive voice and not enough active voice; trouble creating active and engaging dialogue; using too many similar words in starting sentences; or something else?
Answer:
The most challenging is to have a constant stream of ideas or ideas that are sustainable and pliable. Once you have those, words will follow.

~~~~

Dominae, thank you for stopping by today. I enjoyed our conversation!

On fiction compositions and conclusions-by Dominae Primus

2010-12-24T11:39:00.004+08:00

Although we cannot deny that there are states when the conclusion appears worse than the start, yet after greater scrutiny, its benefits are within the grasp of those who know better. There are indeed states that end worse off compared to their beginning. If there’s anything of value to be derived, it should be the worth of a cautionary tale and perhaps a contrast with a parallel state.

To have a meandering story without a conclusion or a set of memoirs where nothing much happens within a closed environment is as pedestrian as daily routines of invisible lives. It is a waste of time and a burden thrust upon the patience of readers.

Concerning my own fiction compositions, I prefer to inject a conclusion to them. Even if there are hints of another story after the one just concluded, I’d prefer to keep the concluded story a closed matter. Conclusions provide a sense of closure, a real finish to things. I do not as a rule enjoy dwelling too much on a condition without offering a solution, serving as a conclusion or for some insight derived from the episode.

It is with hope that whatever that we have started, we arrive at its conclusion and a matter achieves closure. We aspire to a better state than the state in which we had commenced. Even if we have achieved the highest, we will do well to cultivate further.

Dominae Primus poem dedicated to Mr.Mercury

2010-11-25T14:14:00.001+08:00

The Official Queen Fan Club posted my poem dedicated to the memory of Freddie Mercury.
It can be found at this link http://www.queenworld.com/artman/publish/article_1233.shtml

Lover of Life, Singer of Songs-dedicated to Freddie Mercury- a poem by Dominae Primus.
This poem is inspired by Brian May’s tribute to Freddie as inscribed on Freddie’s statue in Montreux, Freddie’s showmanship and the iconic sequences of a Queen concert.

Lover of life singer of songs

With mike and stand he ruled the throng

Heart on sleeve he gave his all

Each gesture the masses enthralled

Where rhythm jousts with vocal prowess

Melody and effects among his powers

His roller-coaster ride spun in songs

On centre-stage his destiny belonged

Well loved for his cheeky craft

In our hearts his memory is cast

With crown and cloak he waved the throng

Lover of life singer of songs

My case against performance poetry and public readings-an opinion by Dominae Primus

2010-10-14T22:06:00.000+08:00

It has nothing to do with accent. It’s not a problem for people to catch what I say.

These are actions which in some way the public has been brainwashed to expect from poets and writers and as such those actions are imposed upon poets and writers. Reading is an intimate experience and so is writing. Would you so freely state something so intimate to the entire public? You would if you’re an exhibitionist, who enjoys living in a glass house and loves to be observed every waking moment. The rest of us I trust aren’t so. Do you enjoy your food and spell out to diners all around you the pleasure that you’re engulfed by with every bite? Do you take an ice-cream, smack your lips, exclaim at every taste and swallow? Is that what you normally do? I think not.

By announcing the pleasure, it is lost. By keeping silent and savouring it, the pleasure is enhanced and stays as fond impressions upon memory.

A public reading is like standing up in class and having to read aloud so that the entire class and most importantly the teacher hears it and uses that to assess one’s reading skills. I’m not being judged by my ability to read and don’t need to read aloud to justify my literacy!

My readers can enjoy the work at their own pace by reading text or by listening to an audio recording of it by some well known commentator, actor or actress at their leisure or while performing some manual tasks.

Reading aloud to me is as contrived, forced and superficial as performance poetry. Poetry is something to be enjoyed at one’s pace. Another person’s pace may be too fast or too slow compared to your own. Or maybe you like to go over and then see the virtuosity of the work in technical arrangement and the wit in its turn of phrases?

Performance poetry to me only works if one is a rapper or singer songwriter. In that case, the poems have to be performed a capella and/or with musical accompaniment in order to be fully enjoyed and appreciated.

If people just want a performance akin to a recital from authors or poets, they can just open their books and read or purchase an audio recording when it becomes available. The public simply cannot expect a recitation when an author or poet shows up. That expectation has to be checked.

For a performance in every sense of the word: I’d wholeheartedly embrace it if it were a competent motion picture or animated film respectfully adhering to the content, spirit and intent of its source.

I remain against public readings and performance poetry. I’d rather talk about the process, the motivation, inspiration and themes. Also I’m fine with signings or a spot in discussion shows. It may be part of the business but it cannot be denied that it provides a panorama of one’s reading public, its general demographics, its noteworthy highlights and its quirks.

Dominae Primus article at Writersservices.com

2010-08-05T23:29:00.000+08:00

Many thanks to Chris Holifield and the team of Writersservices.com for publishing a short article I wrote about the site. Writersservices.com is a UK based authors' site which I had known since 2003.
Read my feature article under 'My Say' by clicking on the link.
http://www.writersservices.com/mag/10/my_say_10.htm

Dominae Primus article at Preditors & Editors.

2010-07-08T21:55:00.002+08:00

Many thanks to David Kuzminski who runs the Preditors & Editors website. Preditors & Editors is a US based site I had known since the turn of the 21st Century.Here's the link to the article:
http://pred-ed.com/pubop076.htm

Hope and action

2010-07-06T17:28:00.011+08:00

My first ebook release was in 1999. At the time, ebooks were in their infancy and there was much resistance over the idea. Ereaders were prohibitively priced, resolution poor with no universal standard of content presentation. When I first started there were only two main formats, PDF and the Palm Pilot format. The defunct Rocket ereader came later.

The second decade of the 21st Century is decidedly different. Technology, opportunities and widespread usage of smart digital devices have made ebooks a logical progression.

Even as we speak, publishing is evolving from a closed cartel style community to a liberal set up which provides opportunities for enterprising authors. If music can be sold via online download stores, so can content such as books, games, images etc.

I already an inkling of this during the early part of the 21st Century when the music industry was still grappling with copyright issues, the MP3 format and file-sharing sites such as Napster. Again, my hunch was confirmed by the establishment of Apple Corporation’s iTunes and Amazon’s MP3 music download store. There are even artists’ own websites which sell their music direct via downloads and specially shipped CD/vinyl albums.

Why not e-books? Things are going digital. The digital will coexist with older(traditional) media. It’s ineluctable.

It seems that the book industry had taken several years to realise its potential and possibility of linking digital devices to access the same content without loss of quality. This is where opportunities can be found for enterprising authors and those who wish to have their works out rather than struggling to get noticed! The chances of being noticed and deriving revenue from work are a lot better by being out there in the market rather than hovering and knocking on closed doors.

For this I have taken the decision to go forth with courage.

Accepted at the BBC

2010-05-04T12:04:00.002+08:00

Dom is listed at Gutenberg

2010-05-03T20:06:00.004+08:00

I am listed at Project Gutenberg. This is because the majority of work available at Project Gutenberg are normally compositions released prior to 1923.

I broke that mould in the early part of the 21st Century at a relatively young age. So being alive and relatively youthful compared to the departed authors listed there makes me an anomaly.

I wrote the compositions listed during my late twenties and up till the age of 30. Once in a while you have literature students and once in a while you get inspired and determined people like me who wish to create and not merely read the works of others. While at school, I studied literature formally for 4 years at secondary and upper secondary levels.

These Gutenberg compositions were vetted by Professor Michael Hart and Dr. Gary Newby(University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign) before they were accepted and published at Gutenberg.org
Project Gutenberg was founded in 1971 at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, USA.

My anthology of verses.
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/5330

My 2nd anthology of verses.
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/6034

This is where I play the part of a fictional Roman Praetor who reflects on life and death while dining.
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/5766

My collection of life's thoughts up until the age of 30.
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/5329

Old English meets philosophy as I take on Shakespeare and the New King James Bible's English as Nature's elements gather and speak their piece.
http://www.gutenberg.org/etext/5331