Enter 2024: why I'm eagerly awaiting the chaos.

  The new year is approaching, and everything seems poised for a downturn. The doomsday clock ticks to 90 seconds to midnight, the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel show no signs of resolution, shipping costs are set to rise, and many banks are predicted to go bankrupt in the coming year, huge earthquakes are expected, just to name a few concerns. Even astrologically, signs suggest significant changes in 2024. Well, what did you expect from a decade that kicked off with a pandemic? I say, it's going to be chaotic, and I'm anything but looking forward to it.

  "Why am I so eager to see the end?" you may ask. For the first time in the past 85 years, radical changes are expected. There's a sense that a circle has been completed, and another is about to begin. Whether it will be for better or worse, only time will tell. Will it be challenging? Certainly, as every change is. But, as mankind, will we endure? Definitely, yes. Perseverance is the nickname nature has given us over the last 200,000 years, and we fully deserve it.

  I genuinely hope the end is near. I know many will suffer. Bad things may happen to those we love. Tough measures, difficult times—starvation, pollution, war. Our bodies are infused with plastic in our blood, poison in our lungs, and toxins in our meat. Humanity may be on the brink of extinction, but I'm confident this will NOT be the end.

  This will only be an opportunity for a new era. Change only happens when necessary. That's how evolution propelled humankind to the top of the food chain. Adapt and survive. Nature's laws never cease to apply, and I can only gaze at the horizon with hope.

  I don't know if I'll survive this year. Nobody can speak about that for themselves with real and total certainty. In difficult times, it doesn't matter if you're rich or poor. Your money will have no value in the New Era. It doesn't matter if you're born white or black, Christian, Hebrew, Muslim, etc. None of this will matter. In the New Era, we will be freed from the weights of the past.

  My only hope for those who make it through is to give something new a try. When considering how to govern in the New Era, don't revert to untamed capitalism. Don't even entertain thoughts of communism, monarchy, theocracy, or any form of an authoritarian state. You don't want to tarnish the New Era with the vomit of past ages.

  Give a shot to a New System of Politics. Tame the beast. Apply the general rules of an advanced, calibrated system of direct democracy. Work on it, adjust when necessary, and build a solid, healthy foundation for the New World. It takes a lot of effort, compromise, and humility, but the new generation will look back at you with respect and reverence. Because this New World that you'd built for them will be like paradise on earth.

  A rose will bloom amidst the rubble and debris of the past. It will be the source of every color painting the days of the future. Days where every human will be genuinely happy and free. Fasten your seatbelts; it's going to be a tremendous ride.

Introducing you a New System of Politics

  Today, more than ever before, it is evident that social inequality, combined with everyday common practices, has left humanity in a state of numbness, leading to an increasing number of unhappy individuals with little appetite for life. In my view, every problem is rooted in politics, and I have spent many years pondering how things could be different for the world. Below, I present my ideas (click on the images for a clearer view)

  This is the foundational principle upon which everything will be built. Essentially, it advocates for placing people in the driver's seat when it comes to organizing society. People would elect representatives who, in turn, would select a regulator—or as I like to call it, a philosopher, drawing inspiration from Plato's Republic. These representatives would engage in discussions with the regulator about decisions and laws, and the regulator would propose the final law for the people to vote on. Thanks to the technology at our disposal, this process could be both easy and swift. Imagine, for instance, voting on ten laws every Sunday (with participation being optional).

  The above picture is about how the philosopher should be. Plato's true philosopher (or "lover of wisdom") is one who loves "the truth in each thing", as opposed to those who only love the things themselves. In this System, the philosopher is not the one who rules, but only one who facilitates the process of making decisions. This is the reason why a philosopher will keep living in a humble manner, in a house like everyone else’s, eating food that everyone else eats, and without having any other form of additional comfort that would stigmatize him or elevate his societal status, as there would be no class. No form of hierarchy should be apparent, as anything close to it would signify a worrying turn for the worse.

  Now, let's delve into the basics. As evident from the initial illustration, this New System operates from both bottom-up and top-down perspectives. It relies on ten foundational rules that underpin the functioning of society. These rules encompass elements from all three dimensions of power, with a slight emphasis on the economic aspect. This emphasis arises from the recognition that money constitutes a significant source of injustice in today's society, and we're all too aware of the consequences of injustice. We can't simply banish money or reject capitalism; instead, I propose we tame the beast.

  Reaching the core of this New political system for our society, special emphasis must be placed on education. The image above outlines the guidelines upon which future generations will build and develop within this society.

  If this system succeeds in the long-term, the boundaries between nations will fade into obscurity (while local folklore will persist). National frontiers will become obsolete, meaning that armies won't be necessary. The demand for police will also decrease because justice will prevail, and everyone will possess more or less what everyone else has. Ultimately, globalization will become an advantage, the challenges of mass urbanization will be resolved and people globally will be happy. The technology is there to serve us, today more than ever before.

  Over time, many of the proposals I've outlined may undergo reassessment and correction. However, I firmly believe that the above text, as comprehensive as it can be in the format of a blog post, provides a foundation upon which future generations can work, after the destruction of the world. It's just some food for thought.

About today's system of values (upon receiving my first negative review)

  Value. It's what we seek when looking for something to obtain. It's the reason we meet people and maintain friendships with others. If there is no value, nobody would care. You love someone because that person values you, and vice versa. This time, I'll focus on material value, the most highly prized commodity in today's society of extreme consumerism.

  Recently, I completed publishing my trilogy, and as a person who sells a product, the value of my trilogy is not its actual worth. It's not the time and effort that I put into making it, nor all the things I put on hold just to complete it. The only thing that dictates the value of my product is the king that sits atop everything else and will judge my work as a diamond or a piece of garbage: the reviews. Recently, I received my first negative one.

  I knew that this would happen someday, and I have a very thick skin. Honestly, I couldn't care less. You can't imagine how much I appreciate a negative review. The reason for that is because it highlights the things that my project lacks. Hence, it gives me a hint as to where I should focus on improving my work. However, please read the following 1-star review...

  Besides the fact that the individual is probably just an ignorant troll, there is no rational train of thought in that review. Firstly, how can you judge a book when you've only read three chapters (I bet it's only one)? Secondly, what part of it do you consider nonsense? I personally consider the whole review nonsense, and here I am, trying to make a point out of it. Thirdly, nobody knows how many books you've ever read or which ones, so counting books is not an optimal comparison (so, if you've only read one of Kafka's books, one of Orwell's, and mine, then it only makes sense).

  As I scanned through the 56 reviews he's made, apart from the fact that he's clearly not my kind of reader, most of them are somewhat like that. Even the few books he liked are rated at 4 stars. From a psychological point of view, I understand it. This review comes from an author with plenty of published books, none of which ever gained any acclaim. Reading the guy's profile, there must be some family issues as well (parents ignoring him, girlfriend ditching him, living without any friends). I fully understand why the review is sloppy. People like that always try to gain attention in every possible way. It's the fast and easy way that they find to replenish the love, care, and attention that their family/friends never gave them. From the bottom of my heart, I pity these kinds of people.

  To conclude: it is the quality and NOT the quantity of people's opinions that one should trust. There could be a good product with bad reviews and a bad product with good reviews, especially when it comes to writers. People's opinions are helpful up to a certain extent. The rest is determined by a person's conscience and critical ability. And no, the numbers that a book sells mean there is good promotion and marketing, not that a book is definitely a good one.

  However, 80 years of unceasing consumerism has clogged many brain filters. I'll write more about it and my ideas for a new political system that could manage the world so that ALL of us would be truly happy. Until then!

What it takes to be a writer

  Recently, I've completed the publication of the final book in my trilogy, "The Crown of Palrad". It was a personal challenge that I set for myself to finish this story, and the emotion I experienced when I typed the last capital letters (''THE END OF THE TRILOGY'') was exhilarating. I had finally done it, completing a project that took me around five years to accomplish. This was something I had planned since childhood, inspired by my first viewing of "The Lord of the Rings" on screen. Now, it has finally reached its conclusion. But was it worth it?

  First and foremost, let me clarify that the initial motivation for writing stems from the pure joy it brings. Each time I sat down to write—every well-dedicated Sunday afternoon spent crafting these words into coherent text—it felt akin to a therapy session. Though not readily apparent, the blank pages represent an immense freedom to express and shape thoughts, a stark contrast to the constraints of real life. This unique liberating sensation is only attainable through the act of creation.

  Apart from these positive aspects, I often ponder over the downsides of such a time-intensive endeavor. As someone who tends to weigh all factors, there inevitably comes a moment when I look back and contemplate whether the time invested was truly well spent. Here's what being a writer has cost me:

1.A few instances of neck and back pain, alongside a 0.5 increase in myopia due to prolonged hours of writing while seated. The former, I can manage - I'm a physiotherapist. However, the latter is something I must simply accept and adapt to.

2. Complete abstinence from any kind of sexual activity. I'm not like Salvador Dali in that. However, many great people practiced abstinence both in the past (like Nikola Tesla) and in our days. Don't forget that there is a whole episode in Seinfield, talking about how abstinence makes a man smart, yet turns women stupid. Although it was just comedy, I think that it originates on true facts. The reason is simple: you can direct your mind with regards to where to spend your energy and imagination.

If one expends all their energy on sexual activities, there may be a deficiency when truly significant moments arise. This rationale is akin to the principle that athletes avoid such activities before a game. The Ancient Greeks recognized this concept as well. In the ancient Greek play 'Lysistrata', women withhold sexual relations from men in order to bring an end to the Peloponnesian War, which was among the bloodiest conflicts of its era. The same think happened in different times throughout history as well. Why did they do that? The reason is simple: you can do one of the two right, but not both. Sex messes with your mind, unless you write erotica, of course, in which case go nuts...

3.Publishing might come without an economic cost, yet everything else associated with the process comes with expenses. Writing constitutes merely a fraction of the journey toward creating a written work. Significant time must be allocated to promotion, and this continues for an extended duration (thankfully there is chatGTP for editing). After all, writing proficiently loses its purpose if there is no audience to engage with the work.

This principle parallels the aversion people have towards conversing with someone who disregards them completely. In the present landscape characterized by consumerism and individualism, this phenomenon is customary. It aligns with the ultimate objective of extreme capitalism: prioritize personal contentment, disregarding external concerns. The prevalent ethos suggests embracing a state of blissful consumption. Personally, I find spending hours conversing with the vacant walls of an empty room unappealing. This endeavor appears bereft of significance.

4. It doesn't pay off. The financial returns are not substantial. Each sale yields a profit of around 0.60 cents, even if the selling price were higher, the profit margin wouldn't exceed 1 or 1.40 cents. I recently heard Jordan Peterson discussing that and it surprised me that even widely recognized writers like him face such modest earnings. Admittedly, he sells millions of copies, yet even so, receiving a mere 5-10% share of what one creates and sells fails to seem justifiable.

In this point, I shall repeat: I DON'T WRITE IN ORDER TO MAKE A PROFIT. I have my job for that. Writing is only a hobby. Still, I'm constantly seeking for sliver linings and something like a better return would add value to the time and effort invested in a work.

To sum up, when you're passionate about something, I always recommend giving it a shot and persevering. Don't abandon it prematurely. Effecting change in the wider world can be immensely challenging, yet ultimately, we are remembered for the endeavors we undertook to enact change. For me, that stands as the most important measure of success.

Quest's End: Unveiling "The Crown of Palrad: The Burning of the Glowing Tree"

 Greetings, fellow enthusiasts of epic fantasy!

I am thrilled to unveil the long-awaited culmination of an unforgettable journey. Today, I proudly present to you the third and final installment of the gripping trilogy, 'The Crown of Palrad: The Burning of the Glowing Tree.' Within these pages, you'll find a world brimming with destiny, intrigue, and an ever-present darkness that threatens to consume all.

The saga continues as the company of Arazan advances relentlessly toward the desolate Barren Lands. Their purpose is crystal clear: to obliterate the cursed Crown of Palrad. This ancient artifact, a repository of malevolence, holds the very future of our realm in its grasp, and the road to victory is fraught with danger.

In parallel, a gathering storm takes shape. Guided by Kuthlazun, sinister forces march upon the city of Hapad'al, driven by a nefarious agenda—to dismantle the Glowing Tree and neutralize the threat it embodies. As the impending catastrophe looms, Edligor steps into the monumental role left by his late father, rallying the diverse Kin from across the continent. The Lakes emerge as a sanctuary where unity battles against the encroaching shadows.

Against a backdrop of fleeting time and a city on the brink, we are drawn into the dense, rain-soaked fog that blankets Hapad'al. The population, vast and varied, adds to the complexity of the task at hand. Meanwhile, the enemy's forces maneuver with relentless precision, capitalizing on an environment that has shifted in their favor.

Within the pages of 'The Crown of Palrad: The Burning of the Glowing Tree,' alliances will shift, heroes will rise, and the fabric of destiny itself will be rewoven. This is a tale of courage pitted against impossible odds, where sacrifices are made for the greater good, and where the tenacity of the human spirit shines brightly.

Prepare to be immersed in a world where magic and danger intertwine seamlessly. Battles echo with the resonance of legends, friendships flourish amid chaos, and the glow of hope persists in the face of overwhelming darkness.

As the final chapter unfolds, one question lingers in the air: Will our heroes emerge victorious, or will the shadows claim dominance? The answers await within the pages of this remarkable saga.

Stay tuned, for 'The Crown of Palrad: The Burning of the Glowing Tree' beckons—a journey that will leave you breathless and longing for more.

Until then, let the adventure begin.

Warmly,

Jim K. Athanas

The short-stories fantasy books are free now!

  I'm happy to inform you that my short-stories "The pole" and "Talking to the bush" are perma-free! These are short-stories in the genre of fantasy, adventure and contemporary (maybe a bit dystopian as well). You can find: "The pole" on Amazon KDP here and everywhere else here, "Talking to the bush" on Amazaon KDP here and everywhere else here.

  With regards to their content, you can check the description of each of them on their referred pages. I can only say that there is a lot of action and allegory in both of them and that you won't be disappointed. Both of them were awarded in the Magic Pen Writing Contest in Greek and are translated into English by the author.

  Don't forget that the second book of "The Crown of Palrad" series is out - "The fall of the Silver Gate", you can read more about it here!

Unleash the Adventure: Book 2 of the "Crown of Palrad" Series Out Now!

  I'm very excited to announce to you that the second book of my epic fantasy series "The Crown of Palrad", named "The fall of the Silver Gate" has just been published. Nearly four months after the first one was out, here comes the next and I hope that you'll rather enjoy it! Let me give you a synopsis of what the second book is about.

  The Signal of the Yeller travels quickly from Rocky Isle, passing through the Paragon Isles and the vast landscape of the continent, until it finally reaches the Ring Mountains. In the Holy Mountain, Edligor will be the first to hear it and inform the Wise for the Gathering of the Gerents. The aftermath of the battle between the Traders and the army of the People of Men causes a division among the Producers of the Kin.

  Separation also lingers in Nirah Sorith, the underground capital, as a result of Zanid's departure to attend the Gathering. In the Kingdom of the Mounts, Loxor's adventure continues as fate makes him face the Giants. Fate also plays a sly game for Alouthna, with Unerthron being exposed to the treachery of the Kin of the sea.

  However, a High Court is held and the history of the world is once again in pieces. When the truth is revealed, the Crown of Palrad is found and the Silver Gate is smashed down. In the end, a company is formed, comprising individuals from all the Kins, with a single mission: to destroy the Crown and free the world from its curse.

  To sum up, "The Fall of the Silver Gate" is a world-changing book. Everything changes: the characters evolve, the nature is altered, and the conspiracy grows even stronger. Nothing remains the same. The story builds up to the grand finale of the series, the ultimatum for the world of all the Kin, which will be presented in the third book of the epic fantasy series. It is estimated to be published in the summer of 2024 (fingers crossed). Until then, enjoy the first two books and don't forget to review them here and here!!!

Story of a map

When I finally finished my first book in "The Crown of Palrad" series, I checked everything and thought it was good. However, there was just one thing missing. As the pages of the novel revealed several locations with numerous names coming and going, I realized that I needed to create a map like in other fantasy books that I had read. Since I chose self-publishing, it was an opportunity for me to learn something new because I had no idea how to make a map. So, I evolved by learning how to create a map, and that's my story.

  This is my first attempt, which looks more like a sketch than a map. It was just something casual that I used as a reference while writing the book. I pinned it next to me so that I could look at it whenever I needed clarification. To most of you, it would probably look like a coded chart. To me, it was the entire world that was alive while I was writing the book. Oh, how great were the adventures I lived through this little piece of paper...

  But then I said to myself, "Come on, Jim, you're an artist. You can do something better than this." I gave it a try, and as you can see, it didn't go well. What did I expect? I hadn't painted anything since I was a child. So, I thought there must be another way and I used my updated computer skills (or joking-level computer skills). People love things that are created by computers, I thought. It would be easier to draw.

  So, this is what I came up with! I used Paint 3D, and this was where it got me. It was a nightmare. I used the 3D library to make it more special, and this was the only evolution for me. However, I regret every single moment I spent on it. I say that mostly because it lagged. It lagged A LOT. If I could add the hours I spent waiting for my project to open and the 3D library to insert things into it, I would easily form a whole new day in my life. I don't know if it's me who is at fault or my laptop, but anyways it didn't work for me. This brings me to the assistance of a dear friend of mine. You all know that friend. It's called Google search, and it's always there when you need it.

  I googled "fantasy map maker for free" (I couldn't afford to spend a fortune on this), and it brought me to Reedsy. I tried several options, but Inkarnate turned out to be the ideal fix for me. After spending some time learning how to use it, I designed my final map. The platform is very user-friendly, and I made it without any cost other than my time and energy. There are some extra features that could be added for which they charge you, but even without them, I was good to go. My hard-earned skills from my adventure on Paint 3D came in handy when I designed the Atheral wall and the Silver gate (an option that Inkarnate was charging me for). And voila!

  It would have been much easier if I had searched Google from the beginning. However, the whole story was a personal process of evolution and learning that, in the end, made me a better person. The same goes for the four years that I spent writing the book. All's well that ends well, I guess...