Upcoming Appearances and Internet Etiquette

So the power was out in my neighborhood today. This doomed me to an afternoon of stewing in my own juice. The weather in Wisconsin right now has been roughly equivalent to living inside a dog’s mouth. It was not a good day to be without air conditioning.

Also, the power outage threw a wrench into my plan to fine-tune and post another blog about Europe. So, instead, I decided to pass along some news and answer a piece of fanmail I got yesterday instead.

First the news: I’ve just finished updating the tour page.

The busy part of convention season is fast approaching, and I’ve got a lot of events scheduled over the next couple months. From relatively small conventions and signings here in Wisconsin (I’m in Wausau this Saturday, btw) to big conventions in Indianapolis, Minneapolis, Montreal, and San Diego.

(Rare footage of the elusive Rothfuss at his natural migratory habitat: the convention.)

At some of these conventions, I even get to be Guest of Honor. I’m not sure, but I think this means someone will be contractually obliged to fan me with a large palm leaf. I also expect to be given a shiny medal of some sort or at least a rather dapper-looking hat.

(The Rothfuss uses his bright plumage to lure readers into panels, where he devours them. )

So head on over to the page and take a look at where I’m going to be. I go to these to meet readers and hang out, so the more the merrier.

Now the piece of e-mail:

Pat,

I have a quick question I hope you don’t mind answering. I saw you do that sometimes in your blogs.

After finishing The Name of the Wind, I called my local bookstore to see when the next book was coming out. They didn’t know. So I called my local Library. They didn’t know. So eventually, I gritted my teeth and borrowed a friend’s internet and found your blog.

Over the next week I read all of it. Including most of the comments. I was a little addicted. I’m guessing it took me fifty hours.

I don’t have a question about book two. Take your time. But as someone who doesn’t spend a lot of time online, I am curious about this whole blog thing. Specifically about the comments you receive on your blog. After reading these, I feel like I know a lot of the posters.

Many of them are funny, and some of them are really clever… But some of them seem downright insensitive or rude.

What is up with that? Am I just oversensitive, or are a lot of the people commenting on your blog actually rather rude?

I’m tempted to say it’s the former. I’m not really a blog reader. And I’ve always assumed that people smart enough to read your book would also be courteous and polite.

Sincerely,

Jen J.

Jen,

I’ve always assumed that people who read my book are not only intelligent and polite, but more attractive and better in bed than your average person. They also smell like fresh pie.

Unfortunately, the internet is like a great machine designed to make humanity look stupid. Oh sure, there are good things the internet does for us. Smart things. Noble things. But for every one person using distributed computing to cure cancer, there are ten people forwarding me a letter that threatens impotence and the death of a fluffy kitten if I dare to break the chain.

The problem is this. The internet is allows people to do things very quickly.

Now don’t get me wrong, some things are better done quickly. Getting someone to the hospital. Mowing the lawn. Making my 7-layer burrito.

But many things are not improved by speed. Most things, actually: Backrubs. Baths. Getting a haircut. Writing a novel. Cuddling. Kissing.

And blog commenting. Contrary to what people believe, fast is not always better in terms of communication.

The problem is, language is a slippery thing. People have a hard enough time getting their point across when they’re face-to-face. Over the phone is harder because you can’t see body language or facial expression.

But pure text is the hardest. That’s why e-mail misunderstandings abound, because you don’t even have timing or vocal inflection to help get your point across.

This means when a person types a comment without thinking things through, it’s much more likely that their intended message will get lost and they’ll seem rude when they really didn’t mean to be.

Take my announcement today for example. I know what’s going to happen as soon as I post about my upcoming convention appearances.

I’m going to get people posting comments that say things like: “Screw Indianapolis! Come to Mucwanigo!!! We have a bookstore!!!1!!”

Now this person probably wants to say three things:

1. They have a lot of enthusiasm for me and my work.
2. They won’t be able to make it to Indianapolis and this ensaddens them.
3. They’d appreciate it if I came to Mucwanigo.

But despite the egregious overuse of exclamation points, this is not what this comment actually communicates. To a lot of readers, this comment seems rude. Here’s why.

Signings and conventions require a great deal of effort on the author’s part. Doing a even a handful of events like this means an author will spend dozens of hours on planes breathing recycled farts, hours scheduling panels and e-mailing plans, then days at the event itself.

It’s also expensive, thousands of dollars on plane tickets, taxis, hotel rooms, and overpriced airport burritos.

Knowing all of this, a courteous internet user can understand why a comment of, “Why don’t you ever come to St. Augustine?” seems a little insensitive.

At the same time, rude is sometimes in the eye of the beholder, too. That’s why I try my best to read comments in the spirit they were written. That means looking at them with a generous eye sometimes, trying to cherish the enthusiasm and ignore the fact that the poster didn’t take the time to think things through.

Still, when someone writes, “Minneapolis is a whole 30 miles away! Come to Wanamingo!” it’s bound make me feel like a cat that’s been rubbed backwards.

Not only is it issued as a command (which is never endearing) but it implies that even though the author is traveling several hundred miles, leaving his pregnant girlfriend home alone for the weekend, and effectively skipping his own birthday, he still isn’t doing enough to please you.

So that’s what I think is going on in the comments, Jen. Sure there are a few mean-spirited or genuinely snarky people out there making posts. But the vast majority of the people that come across as rude are probably just guilty of posting without thinking things through.

Of course my readers. My clever readers. My clever, polite, sexy, apple-pie readers are a class of person quite above the normal internet rabble. They think twice before they post. Some of them even think three times. Right?

Right?

Later space cowboys,

pat

This entry was posted in appearances, conventions, Fanmail Q + A, signing booksBy Pat143 Responses

100 Comments

  1. gapyeargirl123
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:14 AM | Permalink

    Great post, Pat.
    One of the things I have great difficulty with on the internet is sarcasm. I tend to use sarcasm a lot when I’m talking, which is fine, because people know that I’m being sarcastic. But then when I’m talking to my boyfriend on MSN, I end up having to rewrite things a couple of times so that it doesn’t sound rude.

    The tour – I’ll have a look at the page – I’m hoping to be in the USA this summer, and it would be really cool to be able to see you at a talk somewhere, since I couldn’t make it to the event you did in London.

  2. Tyson
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:26 AM | Permalink

    I’ve never been to a convention, but I’ve been following a number of fantasy writers online lately (you included of course), and I’m getting more inclined to try this convention thing that they keep writing about.

    So if you could only recommend one of the more well known conventions for me to go to, which one would it be?

  3. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:35 AM | Permalink

    I’m sending you a shaving kit for your birthday. Your girlfriend will also stop crying once this arrives. I guarantee this.

    Also, don’t go to that convention!!! Rather come visit me in South Africa :)

    Martin

    (This is my first comment – sorry, I couldn’t resist after you implied that I smell like pie)

  4. Armin
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:41 AM | Permalink

    I think the thing with the Internet is anonymity. People are mean, cruel and selfish when no one is looking. Babies will fight each other if no one will intervene.
    So what you get on the Internet is too much honesty. We all are slowed down all the time when talking to each other, we consider. So Pat got it right, thinking about what we write will help prevent writing buLӤ$ but people just jump on possibilities of not having to think overly much.
    And always remember, what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger. Sadly surfing the Internet too much will strengthen you in being insensible. Pat’s blog is sugar and cream all over compared to other sites. Most communities only work because ppl (people) get locked out by the rest when they don’t play/write by the rules.
    Anyways check out chatrooms and open forums and you will get a whole lot worse than here.

    So everybody round Pats, lets keep up the ~~loveboat~~ life.

    cheers
    Armin

  5. KillerKitKat
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:43 AM | Permalink

    Screw Indianapolis! Come to Mucwanigo!!! We have a bookstore!!!1!!

  6. marky
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 10:02 AM | Permalink

    You just keep getting funnier.

    I do smell like pie by the way. Unfortunately, it’s Shepherds’ pie:-(

  7. Art-Jan
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 10:05 AM | Permalink

    Even more than 3 times actually..
    honestly, with most of my post I don’t even make it to the ”publish your comment” button

    So, [Sarcasm On] Cherish the ones that do make it! [/Sarcasm]

  8. Shaanti
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 10:17 AM | Permalink

    I’m betting the number of comments you get on this post will be way down, as everyone will now be too scared to comment for fear of sounding rude…

  9. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 11:31 AM | Permalink

    Hey Pat I’m gonna be at GenCon. And I gladly volunteer to be your offical palm waver guy. Oh, and I smell like (insert your favorite pie here).

  10. Jessica
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 1:19 PM | Permalink

    I want to take the opportunity to apologize for all of the unintentionally rude things I have surely posted, and written in email. Truly. And I am thankful that many people, such as the preternaturally good-natured Pat Rothfuss, cut me some slack. And thankful for the point well made. Peace! (Actually, it would really help if at the end of every one of my comments or emails, here and elsewhere, readers would picture me smiling and saying Peace! cheerfully.)

  11. Casseopia
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 1:24 PM | Permalink

    No Dragon*Con on that list…I hope you just haven’t gotten that far ahead yet.

    Trying to get sarcasm and subtleties across on the internet is always tough. Especially when you’re like me and cannot spell to save your life. You end up choosing different words to avoid looking like an uneducated idiot (I am mildly dyslexic, which made math class a whole lot of fun, let me tell you). Smilies help, tho. I make full use of them.

  12. Jay Belt
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 1:26 PM | Permalink

    At first Mucwanigo sounded like a pretty cool place to go to, but now that I see you aren’t going to be there… Screw Mucwanigo! That place sucks!!!

    /exclamation points rule!!!!!1!
    //posting with extra helping of rude sounding sarcasm

  13. Inkheart
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 1:35 PM | Permalink

    I think we are all guilty at one time or another of being insensitive with our blog postings. Though, in response to Armin’s comment…What’s wrong with too much honesty? I tend to be very blunt and direct in person and just as much anonymously online. I wish more people would be. Yes, it’s nice to consider peoples feelings once in a while, but if that involves beating around the bush, I simply believe there isn’t enough time in life to do that. At least that’s my personal philosophy. I’m not going to assume that I smell like pie, but I’d like to think I do. Great post though, I think I’ve found a new addiction. Damn internet.

  14. Josh
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 2:40 PM | Permalink

    So, let me get this straight. I get up every morning and go to an 8-5 job so I will have the money to buy things, like your book. Then I buy your book. Then I invest my free time reading your book. Then I find your blog. Then I invest my company’s time reading your blog so that I’ll know when book two arrives. All this so that you may live out your dream and get paid to make up stories, something you would be doing regardless. So much support coming from the fan’s direction and yet when your fans ask that you come to a city near them you get pissy and imply they should be willing to travel at least as far as you have traveled to see them. Yet if they were to take that much time off work to travel hours or even days away then they would probably lose their job and not have the income to buy your next book resulting in you no longer being popular and yourself would be looking for a job, adding to the unemployment problem.

    Na, I’m just joking. I spent like 12$ on the paperback and thoroughly enjoyed it. You don’t owe me or anybody else anything. However, if you were to come to Lexington, KY I would buy you the latest Mars Volta album :)

  15. Snall Trippin
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 2:44 PM | Permalink

    …what is this “thinking” you speak of? Also I just tested it and my cat doesn’t mind being pet backwards…but he’s a tricky one…

  16. Bryan Russell (Ink)
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 2:53 PM | Permalink

    I think through every blog comment 47 times. Plus, the monkeys do some editing. There’s a million of them, and they all have typewriters. And, you know, they need a break from trying to recreate the entire works of Shakespeare. Tough job…

    Actually, I had a great uncle once who chewed every bite of food fifty times… soup, I’m guessing, was a serious challenge.

  17. Cheryl
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:04 PM | Permalink

    For all the reasons that you state, I rarely post comments on blogs and almost NEVER read them. I will agree with all of your assessment and add one thing of my own. I believe the internet really has removed people’s manners because they don’t have to SEE (or even hear) what their words have done to the person reading them.

    Please do consider coming to Dragon*Con in the future and bringing the lovely Sarah (and Oot when there is a proper name lol) along with you so we may meet you all. I have read your entire blog and I feel like I almost know you in that “guy that works downstairs” kind of way ;)

    **by proper name I mean when little Oot has decided to take a look at the scary world outside of mommy :) (thought I should clarify!)

  18. Roswitha
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:08 PM | Permalink

    I cannot *cannot* get addicted to your blog, but Oh! how I adore it. I read everyone’s comments on this topic and think that Patrick Rothfuss has a terrific group of followers. Which is logical, since Patrick Rothfuss is a terrific kind of guy who wrote an amazing book.

    And the snark factor is very low here, which I like. And meanies suck!!! So there.

  19. Toby
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:17 PM | Permalink

    What kind of pie though? I think this is an important question that needs answered. Never mind when Book 2 is coming out!

    Is it Steak and Kidney Pie? Scotch Pie? A Cornish Pasty? Apple Pie? A Forfar Bridie? For God’s sake man do the right thing and tell us!! Smelling like Scotch pie would be weird though. Especially if it’s the ones you get at Clachnacuddin’s football ground….. nasty!

  20. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:29 PM | Permalink

    Have fun at Comic Con, that place is always a blast (to me at least). Unfortunately I will not be able to make it this year, as oddly enough, I will be in Wisconsin. Maybe next year though.

  21. Robert S
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:37 PM | Permalink

    Screw Indianapolis! Come to Houston!!! We have a bookstore!!!1!!

    Actually, you don’t want to come here, its hot and nasty. We even made CNN.com’s front page with our horrible weather. 104 yesterday! Maybe I should just head up there to visit you :oP

  22. Weylin
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 3:40 PM | Permalink

    mmmmm, 7 layer burito…

  23. m.q.zed
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:12 PM | Permalink

    You are so right Pat! I always feel I sound like a pretentious twat when I write stuff on the internet, specially to people that do not know me personally [no sarcasm, very sincere tone with a tired Friday morning face].

    Really enjoyed reading this post.

  24. Luke
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:14 PM | Permalink

    Screw this post!!1 How about a real post about Europe like you promised!! Power outages can burn in hell!!!1!

  25. Martin Seeger
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:16 PM | Permalink

    Me, tinking before posting? What kind of baseless accusation are throwing around today. I swear i didn’t pause for a single nanosecond before writing this one… I didn’t even check the splelnig.

  26. limabeanbreath
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:20 PM | Permalink

    After eating an apple-streusel flavored snack bar yesterday, I mused that someone kissing me (white, blonde, blue-eyed “all-American” looking me) would think that I tasted American, too. Alas, no one else discovered this.

    (And yes, I know it was supposed to taste like streusel, but really, my uncultured six-year old self says apple pie.)

  27. Amanda
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:24 PM | Permalink

    I am also of the belief that you will get fewer comments than usual because people will be nervous about being rude.

    Also, I’ve had many a fight with friends and lovers that would’ve been avoided had we only been on the phone or in person, rather than talking on the internet.

    Just for reference, Mukwonago is actually a lovely place, and perhaps it ISN’T a bad idea to give it a visit sometime.

    Now, completely off topic: I am now thoroughly addicted to MS Paint Adventures, but have already had to give up a bit, because my internet doesn’t want to save my place anymore apparently.

    I’m still patiently waiting for an explanation of the calendar in the world of Name of the Wind to show up somewhere on the website, and I do hope that perhaps once some of the craziness dies down I’ll get a look at that :)

  28. Becca
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:25 PM | Permalink

    Wow… I really, really love that post. Great insight and maturity (I mean that as the best compliment). Thank you for taking the time for that. You have given me a wonderful lift today that I can’t explain. PS – the picture you posted of the two of you on your trip was priceless.

  29. Nick
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:31 PM | Permalink

    As a semi-infrequent poster of comments,I guess Ill mention that I have really serious problems with commenting, mostly because I tend to write essays, then recall that I don’t want to read other people’s essays. (I did it again)

    Ah well, the little editor in my head will have to live with this one.

  30. Jason
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:50 PM | Permalink

    I definitely agree with the people who have a hard time with sarcasm over the internet. Sometimes people bracket the sarcastic comments with asterisks or quotation marks, but I usually think “who is he quoting” rather than “that was sarcastic.” By the way that last comment was meant to be sarcastic.

    Still – despite the shortcomings of online communication – I find I can express myself better through instant messaging than face to face. Perhaps that’s because I think three times, stutter, rephrase repeatedly, and look up fancy words in the dictionary for the perfect flavor of meaning. And I type fast enough that most people don’t know the difference.

  31. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 4:50 PM | Permalink

    I seriously don’t see why people are writing stupid rude stuff here! I mean, I’m writing a novel right now and it’s stressful and frusterating! I can see why Pat’s being held up….so please don’t bother him!

  32. Jay Belt
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 5:11 PM | Permalink

    Josh said: “However, if you were to come to Lexington, KY I would buy you the latest Mars Volta album :)”

    I second Josh’s “Come to Lexington, KY” comment btw. You don’t have to do it now, you can wait until your “Wise Man’s Fear” book tour. I’ll buy a six pack of Ale-8-one for you in the hopes that you get addicted to the Winchester Swamp Water and come to Lexington more often.

    No seriously.

  33. Agent Scully
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 5:37 PM | Permalink

    So what you’re really saying is that you like burritos, right? Oh, and pie! Burritos and pie!!!1!!!

  34. Rush
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 5:57 PM | Permalink

    Pat, I can’t tell you how enjoyable your sense of humor is. You’re like that popular guy that always knew the right thing to say to the teacher to get the grade and the right time to wink to get the girl. Only, you’ve got geek cred oozing out of so many orifices that it’s almost scary.

    You’re just so… validating.

    Thank you for your amazing book, and I can’t wait to get a hold on your new one after it finally reached the store shelves.

    Coming to the South-East any time soon?

  35. Vulpes Fulva
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 6:28 PM | Permalink

    You speak the truth, sir.
    I was wondering about something, though. Have you ever planned, or tried to plan, or hope to attend, a convention in the south? I live in Augusta (Georgia, not Maine) and it’s obviously impossible for me to come all the way to Wisconsin or Canada, or even Indiana. The only large convention that takes place near me (that I’m aware of) is Anime Weekend in Atlanta (AWA). Now, I’ve never been to AWA, which usually convenes in September, but plenty of my friends have. I’m not terribly sure it would be the correct atmosphere for you, or if they even have authors come to speak.
    Anywho, I’d really like you to make it down South for a change. I’m sure I would travel at least 500 miles to see you and talk with you, so anywhere close to Georgia would work. :)
    So, to bring this post more into focus, have you ever entertained an idea to go to a southeastern-state convention?
    -Trey

  36. Neal
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 6:36 PM | Permalink

    you ended that post with “Later space cowboys” A line from the anime Cowboy Bebop. Now I already had you down as a pretty awesome person but if you’re a Bebop fan you may very well be the most awesome dude in the world.

  37. Captain Joe
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 7:06 PM | Permalink

    T’is all about inflection. Inflection and pie.

    I fully intend to bring my quirky and handsome brand of outback blogging charm to the States next year, Pat, and see if I can catch you on one of your tour dates in ’10.

    And if not, there’s always pie.

  38. Robertk
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 7:08 PM | Permalink

    Hey Pat I’m still in Indy (missed last visit)and would love to have you sign my Book. Both really as I spent 40 bucks buying Tales of dark fantasy to read 36 pages mind you.
    I’ve never paid more than a dollar a page for a book. But i will consider us even if you give me your John Hancock on my book. or Both.

    When and where in indy Pat. I’m 20 min from downtown indy.

    Robertk

  39. Sylph
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 7:49 PM | Permalink

    Good post! I think this is the first time I’ve posted, though I’ve been reading your blog for roughly a month. I’ve read “The Name of The Wind” about twice and a half. (She says with an air of self-satisfaction and a general aroma of apple pie about her.)

    I’ve never been to a convention myself, namely because I’m a stay-at-home type person. If you do happen to come to London again though, I will make the effort, and will bring a pie to make up for the plane full of “recycled-farts”, if you’d like to specify your favourite type. :)

    Jemski

    *There should be a perfume that smells like pie, I swear. I’m going to have a word with those perfume-making-guys. :D

  40. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 8:04 PM | Permalink

    Hi Pat.
    Just wanted to say that I really love your blog. Sometimes it really makes my day. So thanks a lot and keep going.

    And I totally agree with all your comments, especially with the one about Cowboy Bebop!

  41. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 8:42 PM | Permalink

    Hey Pat,

    I just checked the Montreal Listings….

    You’re not on the list…

    at least I didnt see your name (and it alfab.. alphabeeta… its in ABC form)

    Reg

  42. Stallion Cornell
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:03 PM | Permalink

    I long ago vowed to comment on any blog post that includes the phrase “recycled farts.”

  43. Ryan Schmit
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 9:56 PM | Permalink

    Pat, i have listened three times and i understand where you are coming from. Sacrificing yourself for the good of the readers and the sarcasm never helps in the writing process nor the motivation to go to another convention. So try not to let them get to you and have fun meeting new people.
    I have listened three times…

  44. StormyD
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 10:16 PM | Permalink

    Pat, I have to say as one of your polite, clever, sexy, and good in bed blog readers that when you’re right you’re right. But sadly I smell like fresh brewed coffee. But coffee goes with fresh pie right?

  45. Pat
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 10:22 PM | Permalink

    I have to say, I’m getting a lot of chuckles out of today’s comments….

  46. Kirk
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 11:26 PM | Permalink

    Courteous and nice may have their place, but if you want something accomplished it sometimes helps to be a selfish bastard. Why do you think the tour page has that “demand it” box?

    As to the recent weather in WI, I don’t think comparing it to a dog’s mouth really makes the point, too many people like dogs. It’s been more like a linebacker’s jock strap.

    Disclaimer: This post contains no sarcasm and is only insensitive to linebackers.

  47. Anonymous
    Posted June 26, 2009 at 11:31 PM | Permalink

    Gosh. You must be an optimist. I would have just said, “Well Jen, people suck”.

    PS I love your book. Love love love.

    PPS Blogger is having issues, so if I’ve posted this comment multiple times, I apologize :|

  48. Megan
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:03 AM | Permalink

    I thoroughly enjoyed this post. This is one of the most intriguing, hilarious, and clever blogs that I follow. It reminds me that my favorite authors aren’t just rock stars, they are also real people! :P
    Thank you for sharing your thoughts and your writing with us!

    *off to find apple pie flavored perfume*

    P.S. I like 7 layer burritos too – and cool serenity shirt. :)

  49. Anonymous
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:17 AM | Permalink

    After reading that blog, i just couldn’t tear myself away from the keyboard to post a mean spirited, insensitive reply. ‘What is the feeling of possessing a beard?’ There. I’ve said it, as i showed my sister your photo and the first thing she said was, “Woah, beard-man”.
    anyhow, i lent her my copy of TNOTW, and she read the blurb but she had the nerve to comment on this: “loved women? what else did could he love? men?” Can anyone believe how infuriating she is? She sounds exactly like those insensitive internet commenters. Hmm. Wonder who they can be?

  50. Steven Weyerts
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:34 AM | Permalink

    I wish I could bitch about you never touring in my area, but, unfortunately, I live in Wisconsin.

  51. Steven Weyerts
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:37 AM | Permalink

    Also, I saw Serenity just last week. Had to get in on all this Joss Whedon love. Turns out it was awesome.

  52. Jacob
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:43 AM | Permalink

    When the next book comes out it would be much appreciated if you could make a trip to the east coast (NYC, Philly, DC).

    Love the blog and the book.

  53. Andrew
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:53 AM | Permalink

    Airport burritos? No wonder people breathe recycled farts.

  54. Keith
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 1:20 AM | Permalink

    Another fantastic post, Pat!

    I promise you pie and burritos (maybe some combination of the two) if you show up to Comic Con on Friday as well.

    I really want to give you a high five.

  55. Kimberly
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 2:07 AM | Permalink

    If you’re really hating the WI weather, you could come visit me at work in Wausau… the girls I work with are always hot and they crank the air conditioning WAY up. I have to wear sweaters all summer. And I can’t complain about you not touring near me, so I’ll just come to Barnes and Noble tomorrow and get my book signed again (you signed it already when you were there before). If I read it more than once, you can sign it more than once, right? ;)
    ~Kim

  56. dani
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 2:15 AM | Permalink

    A friend of mine calls the burrito the urban food brick. Just thought you should know.

  57. Vae
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 2:30 AM | Permalink

    of course, pat! of course, you’re right. Thinking things through 1 or 2 or even 3 times – always. and I would like to say thank you – this was a wonderful post. sorry about everything being so rough and having to leave poor sarah at home alone. ill bet she can find some great movies to watch or something – keep her occupied while her man is away ^^

    and im sure you will knock them dead at the conventions, and it will be amazing. i really wish i could meet you and come out. sadly, I am in japan so that will not happen this time around. perhaps some day… perhaps with book 2. or *gasp* dare i speak of… book 3?

    thank you again, pat. take care.

    ps – how do you know, really, if you smell like fresh pie?

  58. Anonymous
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 3:25 AM | Permalink

    I love you. Sooooooo much. ^w^ Don’t you ever change. Never Ever.
    ~R~

  59. mkeller
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 4:01 AM | Permalink

    Wow. Tubesocks. Lima beans and dusty margaritas.

    I really thougth about this comment before posting.

  60. Priscilla
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 4:05 AM | Permalink

    Oh, wow. I knew I should have gone to Comic Con! Hope you have a blast at all those signings, complete with leaf-fans and very fine hats.

    I can only hope you’ll find your way to New York some time in the near future! Would a team of comely, pleasant-smelling young women with fans of peacock feathers and a squad of grape-peelers sweeten the deal? We’d offer Sarah a never-ending foot massage, but we saw “Pulp Fiction,” and we know better than to offer. Maybe pickles and ice cream together instead.

  61. Brad
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 4:08 AM | Permalink

    Mmmmmmmmmmm…… Pie! I like but but strangley enough do not taste like pie. why cant i taste like pie when i smell like pie? I amnot so sure about the better in bed part either. Then again I am qualified for a virgin sacrifice. Please sacrifice me i wish to know the love of women in bed. You should come and visit good old Mentor, Oh. Home of James A. Garfield. But until then keep doing what you do best.

  62. Kimmi
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 4:58 AM | Permalink

    Mmm… I smell like pie. Maybe pi, even.

    Someday it is my hope of hopes that you make it to Powell’s Book store in Portland. I know it is a far off land full of coffee worshipers and unfortunate hipsters, but Powell’s makes it all worth it. The place is overwhelmingly amazing, and you have your own little, “Read this book, it’s awesome!” tag on the shelf. I’ll admit, multiple times I’ve had to restrain myself from shoving your book into someone’s hands while they bemoaned their lack of book to read in the isles.

    Anyway, until you can (hopefully!) make it to Powell’s, I will continue to appreciate your words from afar. Thank you, and take care!

  63. Cora Carpinello
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 5:05 AM | Permalink

    Nice sign-off…Cowboy Bebop style!

  64. Incubus Jax
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 6:50 AM | Permalink

    haha in the second pic your shirt says “Ereni” you should totally name the kid that.

  65. Anonymous
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 12:55 PM | Permalink

    This most recent post of yours is another occasion to say:
    Thank you, Pat, for this amazing blog. Whatever mood I am in, it makes me laugh out loud, chuckle or at least smile. And it’s not a bit shallow, feels like it comes from the heart.
    Of course, I am also extremely flattered to be considered potentially intelligent, polite and good in bed and to smell like pie. Especially the pie-part is a most desirable compliment.
    And I hope your message – not about your fabulous pie-fragrant readers, but about internet etiquette – will be heard and heeded. Even if it is only in response to all the work and thinking you put in your blog all the time (although many of the posts here are already nice, funny and thoughtful). So thanks again!

  66. D
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 3:00 PM | Permalink

    Just for the record, I smell like homemade bread and cinnamon (I am a domestic goddess).

    I’ll leave you to infer the rest… :)

  67. D
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 3:19 PM | Permalink

    PS. I’m with Trey. Augusta GA has nothing going for it but the Master’s, and it is as hot as the Devil’s testicles (I honestly don’t think he comes down here very often), but if you ever find yourself near Georgia we’d love to see you.

    pps. I could even MAKE you a pie.

  68. Kari
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 4:56 PM | Permalink

    Pat, I have a feeling that if we lived near each other, we would be good friends and spend inordinate amounts of time playing Settlers of Catan and making geeky references. I just read the Mistborn trilogy from your recommendations, and my mind was blown by the AWESOMENESS! And I watched Harvey (and my 4 month old son now has a toy rabbit who has been named Harvey). And I read through all of Goblins. So keep those recommendations coming, they are appreciated – and keeping me sane while I wait for a certain book to come out.

    But don’t go to Mucinagwa, they suck! Come to Cleveland instead. :)

  69. Cat
    Posted June 27, 2009 at 5:53 PM | Permalink

    As a Midwife I am in totally agreement, stay as close to home as you possibly can and look after your girlfriend.
    Fantastic post, keep up the good work. Love you book, love you blog, love your Serenity T-Shirt.

  70. Elspeth
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat,
    BTW, I do hope you had a chance to read Neil Gaiman’s blog while you were away, I believe it was May 11th (maybe). It mentions your name… it should be engraved someplace. Your most recent blog related a bit.
    Regards

  71. Ted
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 1:01 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat,
    You’re definitely right that people never take time to think before they make blog posts. Yours is the only one I read for that reason. It really is great that you will keep track of the comments and sometimes reply to your fans.

    I do have a question for you though, and I hope you don’t take it the wrong way. I mailed you a copy of your book for signing about a month ago, and I was wondering if you got it? I realize you are really busy and have better stuff to be doing with your time than spending all of your time doing this. I’m mainly asking so I can sleep at night with the knowledge that the USPS didn’t bash it up and lose it. I’m the guy who put a bag of starbucks coffee, some netflix gift certificates, and a letter which promised wine in the box. I haven’t sent the wine to you yet, though…

  72. Daniel Manthorpe
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 1:10 AM | Permalink

    First things first; mmm…apple pie.
    Secondly, yours Pat is the only blog I avidly and ravenously follow, and hesitantly respond to. Golly, I hope I haven’t sounded rude on a previous post! Or when I saw you in London for that matter. It was great to take the opportunity to meet you, however nervous I was. Your beard seems amazing when seen in person, and I will enjoy your next book no doubt whenever it comes out, and that is all that matters. See; the wait for the book can only make it better. You seem to be a perfectionist, so I have faith in “Day Two”, and “Day Three” for that matter :)
    By the way, do you come up for the words for the captchas too? I searched up “barsemuf” -no page results!? Of course, it could just be the random combination of one letter, and two other words…

  73. KeithRX
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 2:16 AM | Permalink

    Oh Oh Oh!! Just saw TNOTW on iTunes as an audiobook! Woot! Unabridged! Double-Woot! Thank you thank you and congrats, Pat!! (all in a pleasantly non-sarcastic tone)
    Happy Joyful is running off table!

  74. Vasko
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 2:55 AM | Permalink

    I didn’t think Sarah was too far along to travel? Then again maybe she doesn’t enjoy the smell convention guys who don’t seem to remember to shower. My wife also does not enjoy conventions, well I guess its not that she doesn’t enjoy them… she just wishes the people there weren’t so “wierd”.

    In any case I wanted to Gen Con in August, been trying to go for the past oh 5 years now, and it won’t be happening for another couple years I bet, but in anycase my little brother will be there and I got him hooked on you, after a much heated debate on who would make you a better burrito(I won as I am not only a chef but also currently live in Texas), he decided to try to get you to sign something for me. I have a feeling it will be a picture of him with you that says, “Haha you suck you couldn’t be here, don’t suck at life too hard Love, Brian and Patrick(my brother being the former you the later)” In anycase safe travels, I hope you will be in Dallas soon(in my defense I have not seen the updated tour page so if you have a Dallas date woohoo!). Thanks for taking the time to read all of our comments.

    PS I failed getting my wife to name our future son Kvothe, we decided on Caden Matthew Vasko.

  75. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 4:05 AM | Permalink

    hey pat!
    this is my first comment on your blog, but i have been reading it for a while now. i live in the seattle area and it is sure to be full of fans of your’s. you really, really should come visit us here! i adore your writing and would like to meet you in person!
    p.s.-i still laugh about when you said “you are my cookie crisp, and i don’t want a single turd to change the way i feel about you.”
    tchuss!!!

  76. I. M. Bitter
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 4:33 AM | Permalink

    Dang, I hopped coasts from NYC to OC, and it’s just my luck that the San Diego Comic Con is sold out. :( sigh.

    One of these days, the stars will align and I’ll get to hear you ramble and rant in person, at least one can hope.

    BTW, I smell like a sour cream lemon pie. Well, at least I like that kind of pie…

  77. logankstewart
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 5:39 AM | Permalink

    I find the best thing when communicating is to always be tactful and respectful, whether you agree with something or not. Keeping things civilized is never a bad thing, unless your in some sort of anarchy club.

    wv: dingiang. the best wv ever.

  78. Nekomata
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 5:43 AM | Permalink

    Love the recycled farts comment. :)

    (wow, i actually made a short post… Its a miracle! LOL)

  79. MarsheK
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 7:22 AM | Permalink

    Hey Pat! It has always amazed me that some people possessed the innate talent to write about the things I have only vaguely thought about, and brilliantly at that. And you’re one of them by the way.

    Yes, I must admit I’m one of those persons who thinks not only twice but trice before they post any comments on blogs but somehow they more often than not results into impersonal messages. :(

    Anyway, why restrict yourself to a tour of Europe, visit us here in Asia. :)

  80. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 7:27 AM | Permalink

    7-layer burrito… mmmm…

    ahem…

    I have to agree with your observation on language not translating so well over the interwebs. Given the heavy reliance on tone, written word is set up to be misconstrued. I read a post on someone else’s blog (darned if I can remember who now) suggesting the we ought to use different texts to describe the manner in which we propose our words be taken… not a bad idea until you stop to realise that this means an entirely new convention that needs to be adopted exactly the same way across the word. Given that English is already the most difficult language to master, this would not be a step in the right direction.

    Hmmm… so much for a short post. sorry. *wry smile*

  81. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 9:46 AM | Permalink

    Great, a new mantra to tell my mirror-self every morning:
    you’re intelligent, polite, rock in bed and smell like pie.. smell like pie.. smell like pie…
    Thanks for the blog and for making my day!

  82. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 1:22 PM | Permalink

    dear pat: i think your blog is very funny. i enjoy reading how much you love sarah and the baby. i also wonder if sarah has a blog where she rains down fiery retribution on you ;)
    i would send my husband with cookies for you to gencon this year, but i have a sneaking suspicion that he would eat them himself or you would think we were creepy ;)

    patty

  83. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 2:19 PM | Permalink

    I have to admit to a curiosity as to if you and Sarah will get married or not?

  84. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 5:23 PM | Permalink

    Patrick,

    Your witty and humourous observations never fail to put a smile on my face. The recycled farts comment had me laughing and was spot on. So that’s why I experience extreme flatulance half way through any flight I’ve been on. The next time the person sitting next to me wrinkles up their nose and looks my way I’ll just reply that I’m returning the gift. ;)

    My thoughts on why people tend to leave rude comments on here is in line with what another person wrote, anonymity. I doubt that the situation would be quite the same if you were there in person. The prospect of one of your withering looks, or a tongue lashing for the really naughty one’s would be enough to keep em inline I’m sure.
    Just because they bought/read your book doesn’t mean that they own the deed to your Soul, and have the right to tell you what to do.

    I think your way too nice about it all. I’d move to somewhere they couldn’t find me and make em wait ten years for the next installment, the really irate one’s having exploded with rage long before.

    Well, cheerio and have fun on your book tour(if that’s possible).

    John T.

  85. Danielle
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 6:30 PM | Permalink

    Can anyone tell me how do you send Patrick Rothfuss fan mail? Thank you.

  86. Anonymous
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 7:21 PM | Permalink

    Great job Pat. You’re doing wonderful. I just moved you to the top of my authors favorites on my web browser. Yours will be the first blog of all the authors i read!

  87. Steven Weyerts
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 8:21 PM | Permalink

    To Danielle: The answer to your question can be found here.

    In other exciting news, I went to the Wausau signing yesterday, and it was a lovely exchange. I handed Pat my book and—after a few humorous remarks on the various cover editions—he signed it. I didn’t even have to wait in line.

    Whether or not that last is a good thing is, I suppose, subjective. But it worked just fine for me, and my assessment of Pat is that he is as cool a guy as he is an author.

    Anyway, after hearing some of his comments about the earlier cover editions of Name of the Wind, I began to wonder what Patrick Rothfuss might look like shirtless. (A subject I suspect many a woman has contemplated in her time.) Suffice to say, I believe I have reached a conclusion.

    Hope you enjoy, Pat.

  88. Steven Weyerts
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 8:24 PM | Permalink

    My link for Danielle appears to not be working. Just go to Pat’s website, then click on “Tour Schedule” and go to “Contact.”

  89. Jason
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 9:02 PM | Permalink

    Wow, Pat. I checked your tour schedule, you just have no love for the east coast. Consider visiting NY, you have a lot of fans here.

  90. Betse
    Posted June 28, 2009 at 11:43 PM | Permalink

    I think exactly forty-two time before I post, actually, because it makes me happy.

    I really enjoy your blog, and it also occasionally makes me feel like a cat rubbed backwards when people post silly, non-thought-out things.

    But then, there seems to be a lot less of that going on here than in many other places. Bless you and your apple-scented readers (even if I do prefer to think of myself as a bit of a lemon meringue).

  91. Brandy
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 4:08 AM | Permalink

    Dear Pat,

    I’m feeling somewhat guilty about arranging for you to come to my Minneapolis convention now. I was actually planning to bring you a birthday card. Oh well, surprise is ruined now. Can you fake it?
    Also, you’re probably going to be INUNDATED with people who are DYING to buy you foods, coffees, dealer’s room item of your choice.
    I’m sorry your lovely significant other won’t be coming; please thank her from me for agreeing to part with you for the weekend.
    Cheers, very excited to meet the gnome/author next week!

  92. Anonymous
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 5:31 AM | Permalink

    Hey Pat, I just thought you should know that you are amazing. I don’t want to pour my heart out in a comment, and this has nothing to do with your latest blog, but I wanted to share this with you. My girlfriend of 3 years recently ended our relationship. It was not only a surprise, but a hard moment for me. Anyway, I had been hearing through friends and even a few family members how great your book was and I decided to give it a shot. I was never a big sci-fi fantasy fan, and didn’t give it a second thought at the time because I was constantly occupied with my work, my relationship, and trying to have a social life. Due to recent changes in my life, I ended up picking up your book at the local B&N.. I have now read it twice and am currently reading all of your blogs. I must say, not only am I completely distracted, but I am entirely enthralled in everything that you have done. The book is amazing, and I have never had such a fantastic escape from everything I needed to get away from. Thank you for that! I never thought I would be posting a comment to an author let alone idolizing one. Your book is amazing, and I am extremely excited to read the next. Take care!

  93. ConfusedAmbercrombiefan
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 6:31 AM | Permalink

    Dear Pat,
    I am thrilled that you are coming to Minneapolis, and will try my hardest to be there :)

  94. Vulpes Fulva
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 1:25 PM | Permalink

    Yeah, Augusta has been as hot as Osama bin Laden’s gooch pocket, and far more humid. I would suggest coming in mid-fall.

  95. C. S. Lane
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 4:30 PM | Permalink

    Pat, you are my new personal hero: Excellent author, helluva guy.

    A+ for taking things in stride.

    Good luck with that dapper hat convention.

  96. Inkcharm
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 5:56 PM | Permalink

    apple-pie? Yay!

    I wish I could just buy a plane ticket and come to the US anytime soon. I’d love to see VAMPS live on stage. I’d love to be able to meet you. But it’s not meant to be this year, pity though it is. Still, I don’t understand what people would choose to write thinks like “come to X”. I think it’d be wonderful if you ever came to Germany, but I’m certainly not expecting you to. You are, after all, a living, breathing person and not some moving exhibition.

    Other than that your post is delightful as usual. You have a way of putting my own thoughts into beautiful words where I tend to fling sarcasm and attitude. I should resign myself to quoting you, I guess.

    Sorry you have to leave your lady behind and miss your own birthday on top of that. I hope you’ll have a good time nontheless, Pat.

  97. Kimmi
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 6:04 PM | Permalink
  98. Alicia
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 7:18 PM | Permalink

    I think occasionally, but I’m a terribly bad person, so I don’t think I count

    I can’t make it to those cons until I’m a famous author myself, but enjoy thme and revel in your admirers; I’m just grateful you made it to England that once

    -A-

  99. Malikelm
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 8:17 PM | Permalink

    Pat is the man!

  100. Anonymous
    Posted June 29, 2009 at 9:21 PM | Permalink

    Your site has bookings at Comic Con on Thursday and Saturday. Are you going to be there on Friday at all?

    – Jo

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