Machine-Gun Q&A #2

About a month and a half ago, I tried a little experiment here on the blog. I offered people the chance to ask me questions down in the comments. It’s sort of like a machine gun interview.

Much to my delight, it turned out to be fun, so tonight while I’m waiting for Erberts and Gerberts to deliver my sub, I figured we’d do it again.

Here are the rules. Read them before you post:

1. You can ask any question.

2. Bite sized questions are best. I’m not looking to write essays here. Think popcorn, not steak.

2b. One question per comment. No multi-part questions.

2c. Don’t post 20 desperate, flailing questions hoping that I’ll answer one of them. Post one or two clever questions instead.

3. I reserve the right to ignore your question.

3b If I ignore your question, it’s not because I hate you. It’s probably just because I don’t have anything witty to say on the subject.

4. I reserve the right to lie, or at least be wildly inaccurate.

5. Complete sentences, punctuation, and spelling words out in their entirety is encouraged. I’m more likely to pass over your question if it contains abhorrences like “ur.”

6. Nobody can make fun of your question.

6b. Except for me.

7. If I’ve already answered the question in a blog or one of my innumerable interviews, I’m going to pass over it.

7b. If a lovely person wants to post up links to where those answers can be found, that would be very much appreciated.

7c. That said, please don’t answer questions on my behalf. Just links to my answers are best.

8. I won’t answer spoiler-ish questions about the book.

9. I’ll probably trim unanswered questions out of the comments just to streamline things for future readers.

10. I reserve the right to delete unanswered questions so people reading the blog later have an easier time navigating the comments.

Let me see here. It’s 11:50 PM right now in Wisconsin. If you post up your questions in the next 40 minutes, I’ll take a look at them. Questions posted after that will be ignored, because by that time I’ll have eaten my sub and moved on with my evening. So if you miss this window, you’re better off saving your question until next time around.

Ready…. Go!

pat

This entry was posted in Fanmail Q + A, Machine Gun Q&A. By Pat282 Responses

257 Comments

  1. Widow Of Sirius
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:55 PM | Permalink

    Will you officiate my wedding?

    • Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:58 PM | Permalink

      Is this Amanda? If it is, and if you’re doing it nearby, I’d be happy to.

      Unless I have to wear a tie. In that case the answer is no.

      • Synergy012
        Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:59 PM | Permalink

        You cannot officiate a wedding without formalwear!

        • Danm0207
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

          Full on LARP gear. If you’re going to have a fantasy author marry you, you damn well better do it right.

          • fairytail3982
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

            I was a bridesmaid in a medieval faire wedding (as in a real wedding that took place at a medieval faire). It was a lot more fun and a lot less stuffy than most of the other weddings I’ve been involved with – and for once, yes, I would wear the dress again!

        • Danm0207
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

          Will we ever learn Oot’s real name? Also, for the first month, I thought his name was Oort (like the cloud). You lost major geek cred when I noticed that wasn’t the case.

          • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:37 AM | Permalink

            Dan. For abuse of threaded comments, I have placed you on probation.

          • Danm0207
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 9:49 AM | Permalink

            Double post in the wrong comment box, sorry

      • Widow Of Sirius
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

        It is indeed Amanda, and I know names are difficult for you, so A++ for that one.

        We will officially forgo tie wearing. How do you feel about ascots? :)

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:38 AM | Permalink

          Is that some sort of large hunting cat?

  2. frant1a
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:57 PM | Permalink

    what’s your favorite spaghetti western movie? Follow-up: how awesome is Unforgiven?

    • Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:59 PM | Permalink

      I don’t know about spaghetti western as a specific sub-genre. But if I were to just pick my favorite western in general it would be Unforgiven.

      • frant1a
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

        yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa. Mine too.

  3. Synergy012
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:58 PM | Permalink

    Will I be suspended again?

  4. saintburns
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:58 PM | Permalink

    How was your day today?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

      Good. I had a burrito.

      • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

        That’s not a euphemism for anything, by the way.

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

          It was just a burrito.

          • saintburns
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

            Was it Chipotle? Those things are made of amazing.

          • fairytail3982
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:09 AM | Permalink

            Sometimes a burrito is just a burrito.

  5. cjmurphy
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:59 PM | Permalink

    One thing I’ve always wondered from NOTW– There is one scene where Denna teaches Kvothe the proper way to hold a knife. How could Kvothe be educated in swordplay and educated in how to survive in the wild and not know the proper way to hold a knife?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:02 AM | Permalink

      At what point in the book has Kvothe received serious training in swordplay?

      • cjmurphy
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

        I’m afraid I don’t remember the man’s name in the camp, but I thought he received some sword training from the fencing expert in his troupe? It might have just been a brief line that I misinterpreted.

        • Murdoc the Mad
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:12 AM | Permalink

          Page 122:
          “Teren measured me against the hilt of his sword and judged that I had grown tall enough to begin the basics of swordplay. No enough to actually fight, he stressed. But enough so that I could make a good show of it on stage.”

          • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:39 AM | Permalink

            Thanks Murdoc.

            It says right there, he was learning how to do stage combat with a sword. How would he know anything about knife-fighting?

          • cjmurphy
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:43 AM | Permalink

            I guess that’s my mistake then. Just something that caught my attention when first reading through. I thought it was kind of weird that he knew enough about trapping and surviving in the woods to live for many months in a forest, but then was corrected by a cute girl on how to hold a knife. But once again, my mistake!

          • Layde
            Posted July 14, 2010 at 1:32 PM | Permalink

            Omg. Pat, as a professional fight director and stage combatant, the fact that you know that stage combat and real fighting are two totally different things just made my whole friggin’ week. :) You’d be amazed at how many people don’t get it. I knew there was a reason I liked you!!

  6. Timmy
    Posted July 5, 2010 at 11:59 PM | Permalink

    Who is your favorite superhero/action figure/you understand what I am trying to say here?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:03 AM | Permalink

      Not quite.

      • Timmy
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:05 AM | Permalink

        Ok I’ll narrow it down. Think of all the awesome superheroes (Batman, Superman, Spiderman, etc.), and name your favorite. Mainly these are comic book heroes, but it is not limited to comic books. But try and go with a relatively well-known hero I guess. Hopefully this helps you answer the next question. I might have just confused you.

  7. Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

    Do you have a backlog of ideas to pursue when you finish the Kingkiller Chronicles?

  8. Synergy012
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

    Whats going on with the T-shirts?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:03 AM | Permalink

      In process. We had a lot of suggestions, and we’re having some art done. It’s taking a while to pull it all together.

  9. mannblack
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

    Who are your favorite characters? (movies, literature, plays, whatever) maybe a little on why they appeal?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

      Too big.

      • mannblack
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

        maybe just books? I in particular believe my favorite would be Roland from the Dark Tower series. He seems more of a force of nature almost never fully explained.

  10. annedroid
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:00 AM | Permalink

    How long have you been growing your beard?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:05 AM | Permalink

      Technically, I’ve been growing it for 20 years or so.

      I think what you’re curious about is how long I haven’t been cutting it.

      • annedroid
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

        haha, touché.
        When was the last time you cut it, then?

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:40 AM | Permalink

          10 months ago? Maybe?

          I honestly have no idea…

  11. Timmy
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

    And to follow your rules, I will post my next question here:
    Who is your favorite evildoer/antagonist/again, you understand the question I hope.

  12. Brett
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

    Dear kind and benevolent master: What kind of sub did you order? Living in Maine, I’m not sure what Erberts and Gerberts is, or even if you just made it up on a whim. Hell, we don’t even have delivery food. Anyway, was it tasty, or was it a complete let-down (despite your specific ordering, of course)?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

      It’s a Boney Billy plus Dijon mustard and avocado.

      • AndyB
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

        BONEY BILLY
        Real turkey breast accompanied by fresh alfalfa sprouts, ripe red tomato, crisp lettuce, and of course, Hellmanns mayo.

        http://www.erbertandgerberts.com/sandwiches.html

      • Widow Of Sirius
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

        I got a Narmer two days ago. It made my day.

      • mselj854
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 5:11 PM | Permalink

        The Boney Billy and Narmer are my favorites! Oh, how I miss Point. I guess I should have followed in your footsteps and stayed in school until they had no choice but to pay me as a teacher :)

    • Synergy012
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:09 AM | Permalink

      Since Pat does not like URL shortners…
      http://www.erbertandgerberts.com/sandwiches.html

  13. emariet
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

    If you could pick one place in the whole entire world to visit right now, where would you go? Fictional places count too.

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

      Too many undermined variables for an answer. How long would I be there? How would I get back? Would I have a chance to put on pants first, or would I just get whisked away?

      • emariet
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

        You get a round trip airplane ticket. You’re gone for a week, and you get an hour to pack. This is all theoretical, of course. I’m a college student with a very, very limited budget.

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:41 AM | Permalink

          I’d go to Narnia.

          • Synergy012
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:48 AM | Permalink

            You want to see that Kvothe – Aslan fight too.

        • mselj854
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 5:13 PM | Permalink

          Are we assuming that this is a special flight for which there is no security to object to Pat’s throwing stars, rocks, and gnomes?

  14. hbdraug
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

    I know you wouldn’t be there on official business but do you ever plan on going to PAX East or PAX Prime?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

      Now that I know the guys from PA just a bit, it’s probably just a matter of time before I make it out there…. I might even get to be on a panel or something.

      • AndyB
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:11 AM | Permalink

        Don’t you have to have a Kingkiller video game before you can go to PAX?

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:42 AM | Permalink

          That would be awesome.

          • shadow_sniper
            Posted July 24, 2010 at 5:56 AM | Permalink

            Just please dont let EA do it.

  15. melanie
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:01 AM | Permalink

    If you had a choice between being able to do magic,or have a true musical talent,.which would you choose?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

      Oh man. Good question….

      It’s really hard to pick. It really depends on what sort of magic it was. If it was D&D magic, I’d probably have to go with the Music, because memorizing spells is stupid.

      But if it was a better type of magic, I’d probably go in that direction.

      • AndyB
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:12 AM | Permalink

        If it was D&D magic, I’d probably have to go with the Music, because memorizing spells is stupid.

        Good thing there’s no memorization in music…

        • frant1a
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:14 AM | Permalink

          yea, but in music you don’t memorize three songs to play the next day before you go to sleep, which you promptly forget about after you play them.

          • Synergy012
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:16 AM | Permalink

            Or if you do you won’t be a very good musician.

          • melanie
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:18 AM | Permalink

            Well, I was thinking of musical “Talent” as someone who could play by ear,..with anyone,anytime .Magic should require some concentration and studying, but not spells that take really long.

        • elderbonnie
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:18 AM | Permalink

          Music memorization isn’t as essential as it would be with magic, I think. Or, at least, the consequences of less memorization in music wouldn’t be as disastrous.

      • Widow Of Sirius
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:16 AM | Permalink

        I just want to point out to you the insanity of your aversion to memorization of facts.

        Maybe you haven’t heard of this book, it’s called Name of the Wind, and it’s got all these complex things like the system of magic, and the monetary system, and even the calendar.

        Some CRAZY author’s got all of that just stored up there in his noggin to spew at fans who truly want to know how these things work.

        • JoeLlama
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:21 AM | Permalink

          I think he was referring more to D&D spell memorization which is a game mechanic where you have to re-learn things once you’ve used them. Not just regular old memorization.

          • frant1a
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

            JoeLlama is correct. I suspect this is because he rolled a Knowledge (geek) check and got a nat 20.

          • Widow Of Sirius
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:30 AM | Permalink

            Thanks for clarifying :)

          • AndyB
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:33 AM | Permalink

            I’d say that most people have to work at replaying songs every so often to keep them fresh in their mind otherwise they will be forgotten. Maybe not quite the strict every night of D&D but close enough.

          • Posted July 28, 2010 at 9:31 AM | Permalink

            Yeah, but if music had D & D logic, actually playing a song would make you *forget* the notes, so that you had to start over and study the sheet music again.

  16. Merus
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:02 AM | Permalink

    Have you grown more comfortable with the trappings of being relatively well off financially, or do you still feel that it’s not ‘you’?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:12 AM | Permalink

      I don’t have many trappings. I’d feel weird about the whole thing if I was driving around a Viper and living in a mansion. But I’m not. Most of my extra money goes to the Worldbuilders fundraiser, so I don’t have a lot left over to be stupid with.

  17. Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:03 AM | Permalink

    Did you ever hear that Heidi Berry song Firefly?
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwFYwfQL9RM&feature=related

  18. guda632
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:03 AM | Permalink

    Do you enjoy Stevens Point more during the school year or during the summer when no/few students are around?

  19. Claine
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

    What video games did/do you play a lot of?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:15 AM | Permalink

      I don’t play many these days. But when I was I kid, I loved the infocom games.

    • AndyB
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:15 AM | Permalink

      Rumor has it that he’s a pretty, pretty princess in Viva Piñata…

      • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:45 AM | Permalink

        Aside from the whole selling-your-children-into-slavery thing, Viva Piñata was an awesome game.

        • Widow Of Sirius
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 9:32 AM | Permalink

          I bought it yesterday because you said it would be awesome, and it was only $10 in a pack with Banjo-Kazooie :)

  20. saintburns
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:04 AM | Permalink

    Is there a list of books considered classics in the Geek world? Things on the list might include Tolkien and the Dune Chronicles…and if there isn’t a list we should delegate that task to someone.

    • Shnargen
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:41 AM | Permalink

      http://homehttp://home.austarnet.com.au/petersykes/fantasy100/lists_books.html and .austarnet.com.au/petersykes/topscifi/lists_books_rank1.html They have pretty much all of the books considered scifi/fantasy classics.

      • Shnargen
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:43 AM | Permalink
      • RegistrationIsStupid
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 3:20 AM | Permalink

        You messed up the links. But I actually like the fantasy listing, many good one in there that I already read, so I figured it would be nice to post working links:
        Fantasy List
        SciFi List

        cheers
        Armin

        • humoredintelligence
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 10:31 AM | Permalink

          Both of those lists are pretty good, although the Fantasy list is missing NOTW, (unless I missed it). I was kind of surprised to see Cat in the hat on there, although I guess it could be considered fantasy.

          • FatherTime
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:45 PM | Permalink

            It was #59 I believe.

          • mselj854
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 5:28 PM | Permalink

            Yeah, the second list has a few good ones, but it also had a lot that I wouldn’t consider fantasy. Cat in the Hat for one and Beowulf for another since it is actually the oldest piece of literature written in (old)English and was probably around for centuries before it was recorded. You could tell it was a voter list, too, because there were a lot more popular books on it.

        • Shnargen
          Posted July 7, 2010 at 12:41 AM | Permalink

          thanks! i don’t know how to change them like that, but they’re still the same pages, so cool. i guess i could have used a url shortener. whatever! they are great lists, so use them!

          • Bellona, The Netherlands
            Posted July 11, 2010 at 2:14 AM | Permalink

            I’m curious why the wheel of time gets so much credit. Maybe someone reading the blog can elaborate on the appeal? I’m reading the books for some time now, but can’t say I like it much. I just want to get it over with to be honest :) I started reading them because so many people said I should, because they’re awesome…
            In my opinion you need a lot of memorizing to keep up all the names, groups, alliances, cultures and so on. With every new chapter I find myself thinking, who is this again, why am I reading about this, how does this link to the other stuff? Next to that the language is awe full. Most sentences I have to reread to understand them, but that could be the translation rather then R. Jordan.
            Anyway is there someone who likes the books and want to share with me why?

  21. fenir
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:05 AM | Permalink

    hey pat, i’m form mexico i would like to know when would the second book be available over here in this land forgotten by you. (:

  22. Bfromaustin
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:05 AM | Permalink

    Some people say that personalities can be described by colors, if your personality was a color what color(s) would it be?

  23. seijim2
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:05 AM | Permalink

    Did you go through any other ideas of how magic would work in your stories while you were doing world building?

  24. dani
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

    Would you like an invite to my wedding on Maui, 10-10-10?

  25. Lioness
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

    Favourite breed of chicken?

  26. fairytail3982
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:06 AM | Permalink

    I have no idea what time zone Wisconsin is in, so I’m not sure if my question is on time or not. But the time zone in Wisconsin is not my question… My question is:

    What are your favorite guilty pleasures? Food, music, books, games, places, clothing, time-killers, etc. – I want to know the things you enjoy even though admitting that you enjoy them is slightly embarrassing because what they lack in quality is made up for by your enthusiasm! :)

    • Synergy012
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:19 AM | Permalink

      The posts are very conveniently time stamped with CDT.

      • fairytail3982
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:24 AM | Permalink

        I see the time stamps, of course, but nothing on my screen indicated that it was CDT, and when I started to write my post, I did not know how long the posts before mine had been up. Of course, after I posted mine, I saw the time stamp on it. Ah, linear time can be so inconvenient!

  27. Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Do you commiserate with George R.R. Martin over the rabid enthusiasm and sometimes psychotic impatience of your fans?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:17 AM | Permalink

      No. Though I plan to if we meet in person…

      • Posted July 28, 2010 at 9:36 AM | Permalink

        Huh. I’m surprised to hear you haven’t met. There’ve been a number of cons you both spoke at.

  28. Adrianm
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    How do manage your depression when thinking about firefly?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:18 AM | Permalink

      I dream that if I ever become Steven-King rich, I’ll buy the rights away from Fox and give them to Joss Whedon as a birthday present.

      • Widow Of Sirius
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

        You’d be my hero.

      • Synergy012
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:33 AM | Permalink

        Don’t get me wrong I love everything Joss ever put his name to, but if Joss Whedon ever got to make something without being reigned in by a suit, it would be ridiculously over budget (on odd things) and a little odder than we would all expect, still awesome but way different.

        • Posted July 6, 2010 at 3:31 AM | Permalink

          “but if Joss Whedon ever got to make something without being reigned in by a suit”

          Answer: Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog

          • Skoivan
            Posted July 14, 2010 at 10:18 AM | Permalink

            Yes! Win!

      • stephanie
        Posted July 7, 2010 at 12:35 PM | Permalink

        …And just for that I’m going to dig deep in my pocket- all the way past The Forgotten Tissue and around Cellphone – to reach my emergency-only-pennies so that I can buy the hardcover instead of the paperback when the second part gets released.

  29. Jeffrey Reuther
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Outlining or freewriting? Also, should I be afraid of Summer Glau?

    • humoredintelligence
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 10:35 AM | Permalink

      Of course you should be afraid of Summer Glau. She is a ballet dancer who only seems to play people who kick butt. Be very afraid. :)

  30. tackett01
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Chicken or steak?

  31. Gourey
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    do you have any plans for creating some form of formal minionship for your loyal minions? such as something that comes with a minion card and such?

  32. Chocolate Sushi
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Last time, I asked what you would do if you found Sara and I (a girl) in a passionate kiss. You said you would try to not spoil the moment. You also said you would make everyone pancakes afterward.

    Question this time: Blueberry or Chocolate pancakes… and would you allow any whipped cream?

  33. Steve
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:07 AM | Permalink

    Hey Pat,

    My 21st Birthday happens to be March 1st of 20011, as I understand it this is the publishing date for Wise Man’s Fear, any chance of a amazing Birthday present?!

    Steve

    • fairytail3982
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:14 AM | Permalink

      Wow, you’re really planning for the future! (20011) Of course, with science fiction, anything is possible… did you travel into the past just to post that?

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:15 AM | Permalink

      haha I really hope that WMF is out before 20011

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:20 AM | Permalink

      That was your present. Before I learned that was your birthday, we were going to wait until 2012.

      • Steve
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:22 AM | Permalink

        hahaha, I’ll take that!

      • begna112
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

        Steve,

        In hindsight I would like to Thank You for being born on May 1 1990

        begna112

        • Steve
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:30 AM | Permalink

          I was born on March 1st 1990 :D

          • begna112
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:37 AM | Permalink

            sorry yeah its just 1am and i havent slept since two days ago

            did ruin my joke though. guess that what i get

  34. fenir
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

    if the second book isn`t coming over here (mexico) let’s say untill 2012 or so, could you help me find a way to get it in english?

    • Santiago
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:50 AM | Permalink

      You can order it from Amazon, they ship internationally.

  35. Awen
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:08 AM | Permalink

    Would you be willing to post an excerpt to whet our appetites? I could go for some fried chicken right now.

  36. Danm0207
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:09 AM | Permalink

    Will we ever learn Oot’s real name? Also, for the first month, I thought his name was Oort (like the cloud). You lost major geek cred when I noticed that wasn’t the case.

  37. avi
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:09 AM | Permalink

    Someone challenged me to draw 25 penguins and give them distinct personalities. I’ve got 5 or so done so far.
    Are there any elementary rules for characterization that wouldn’t be obvious to a nonprofessional storyteller like me? I’m going on instinct so far.

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:21 AM | Permalink

      Sorry, I don’t do graphic. I do text.

      • avi
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:28 AM | Permalink

        oops clarification: I’m using words to describe their personalities

  38. Lazarus Vector
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

    How long did it take you to write “The Name of the Wind” after it was decided to make a three part series?

  39. StacyInAlaska
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

    What state or country would you like to visit that you haven’t yet?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:22 AM | Permalink

      Ireland. Followed closely by Germany and Spain.

      • Janeymacd
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 6:24 AM | Permalink

        Ireland would love to have you Pat, I hope you manage to fit the ‘Auld Sod into your travels in the near future, if you need any recommendations or travel advice, just shout. The main thing about holiday-ing in Ireland is to plan for all eventualities – bring your sunscreen and your umbrella/rain coat!
        March 1st is also my birthday, so thank you for turning a day I like to ignore into something to look forward to :)

      • kit
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 6:33 AM | Permalink

        You really should come to Spain, specially to Barcelona. You would love it, and we would love to have you here!!

        • Joe M.
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:08 PM | Permalink

          Ick, Barcelona. Tranny hookers, man. My brother had to drag one for two blocks saying no . . . while he/she was hanging on to his crotch.

          • kit
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 5:41 PM | Permalink

            First time I hear something like this… Everybody I know loves Barcelona

      • RegistrationIsStupid
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 10:02 AM | Permalink

        When you come and visit Germany, I’d like to recommend you Bremen :)

        It’s a nice city with a good amount of book stores (and it’s my home town) ;)

        • Posted July 7, 2010 at 6:55 AM | Permalink

          We’d love to have you in Spain. Just remember: south is sunny, north is rainy! Best beaches and fish, in my hometown, Cádiz.

      • Posted July 8, 2010 at 7:23 AM | Permalink

        I’d love you having you here in Spain Patt!!!!!

  40. Samm9109
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

    What’s your favorite soda/soft drink?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:22 AM | Permalink

      Dr. Pepper.

      • Chaos2651
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:56 AM | Permalink

        You’re my hero for saying that, Pat.

        • RegistrationIsStupid
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 3:30 AM | Permalink

          WORD.

          And in combination with Pat wanting to come to Germany. It is not easy, but you can get hold of Dr. Pepper in Germany, too.

          — Another major reason to postpone a trip has been removed :D

          cheers
          Armin

      • Andrewc
        Posted July 7, 2010 at 12:48 AM | Permalink

        I love Dr. Pepper. ):
        Unfortunately I have to search alot if I want to find any here in Sydney. :O
        Nice choice though, hehe.

  41. elderbonnie
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:10 AM | Permalink

    Do you remember how old you were/what point of your life you were at when you first began writing for fun?

  42. nopartnersin818
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:11 AM | Permalink

    Pat,

    I’m a fan that, due to family and new a job, has moved just under 1000 miles away from Madison, WI. I enjoyed seeing you twice for public readings. I was one of the 20 or so people that turned up in Almond, WI last fall. I know that you don’t stray too far from home when you do travel for readings, but do you have any plans, desire to venture farther south? Say, central Oklahoma? *add Dickensian street urchin accent for emotional effect*

    • teknofyl
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:16 AM | Permalink

      If Pat shows up in OKC, I’m there too. Or Tulsa.

  43. denine
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:12 AM | Permalink

    Coke or Pepsi?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

      Meh.

      • denine
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:26 PM | Permalink

        Maybe I should have made the choice Mexican Coke or Pepsi (Mexican Coke rocks!).

  44. hygemaii
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:13 AM | Permalink

    What do you use to wash your beard? I’m in Iraq so it’s hard to stroll to the store and pick something up, but I’ve got a pretty good sized flaming red beard going. Looking for recommendations.

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

      Regular soap or shampoo works just fine.

    • missalena
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 5:23 AM | Permalink

      Go to drugstore.com… they ship out here really fast (like, a week) and you can get almost any kind of hygiene item you can think of… and then some.

  45. The Skald
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:13 AM | Permalink

    Here’s my question Pat: If you could choose 4 other authors to sit on a panel and discuss writing with who would they be?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:30 AM | Permalink

      I’d pick the best moderator I’ve ever had the pleasure of being on a panel with: Guy Gavriel Kay.

      Then I’d pick Gaiman, Beagle, and, hmmm… I’d have to think about the fourth.

      My answer would be different if it wasn’t for a panel. A panel, is all about a performance for a crowd.

      • The Skald
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:03 AM | Permalink

        Definitely a good answer. I can see this group being a crowd pleaser.

  46. nifler
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:13 AM | Permalink

    If you could live forever, always young, not dying until you wanted to, would you?

  47. begna112
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:14 AM | Permalink

    have you stopped answering because you are eating your sandwich?

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

      ignore this

  48. Lazarus Vector
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:15 AM | Permalink

    If the world was ending and you were being whisked away to some safe haven, aside from a full set of clothes and your family, what 5 other things would you bring along?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:32 AM | Permalink

      I think the only socially responsible thing for me to do would be to bring along five pretty girls to repopulate the human race.

      • Lazarus Vector
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:36 AM | Permalink

        Didn’t think of that. Good answer.

        • Posted July 28, 2010 at 9:45 AM | Permalink

          It would be even more socially responsible to bring along two virile young men and two fertile young women, so that the repopulated human race wouldn’t have to begin with sibling incest.

          But that answer wouldn’t be as entertaining.

  49. ArgentGuy
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:15 AM | Permalink

    If you could have any real or imaginary animal as a pet, what would it be?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:32 AM | Permalink

      Monkey.

      • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:48 AM | Permalink

        Hold on. I didn’t see that I could pick an imaginary animal. I’d rather have a luck dragon. If I had a luck dragon I’d probably be lucky enough to find a monkey anyway.

  50. Panda Girl
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:16 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat!
    I’m currently having NOTW withdrawals and my friend has my copy so I can’t read it again…any recommended reads?

    And simply to keep the trend going…one day when I get married will you come to my wedding?

    • Widow Of Sirius
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

      There tagged posts for “recommendations” that he posts once in a while to keep us busy. He never steers you wrong.

      • Panda Girl
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:47 AM | Permalink

        awsome, now how do i find them? ^^

        • Widow Of Sirius
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 8:21 AM | Permalink

          There’s a search bar at the top, just search “recommendations” (it’s what I did to make sure it was that instead of like “books to read while waiting for book two”).

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:26 AM | Permalink

      yeah or find a copy of the college survival guide.

      my cousin got me a signed one through the world builders and he gave it to me as a high school graduation present. I love it

    • Andrewc
      Posted July 7, 2010 at 12:54 AM | Permalink

      I have two copies, because I lent one to a friend, and they claimed to have lost it, so I just brought another since it’s the one book I don’t get tired of reading.

      They found it a week later. :D

    • Bonfiglio
      Posted July 7, 2010 at 5:00 PM | Permalink

      Read The Farseer Trilogy by Robin Hobb. They are amazing.

  51. JonnyG
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:16 AM | Permalink

    A wise man once told me the four rules of life: 1) the second beer always tastes better than the first, 2) never pass up an opportunity to tell a woman she is beautiful, 3) don’t sweat the small stuff, 4) it’s ALL small stuff. What us your take on this list?

    • JonnyG
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:18 AM | Permalink

      And by that last “us” I mean “is”, of course. Posting from phone, oversized fingers, undersized keyboard, bad combination.

  52. avi
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:19 AM | Permalink

    Which of the 12 Homestuck trolls is your favorite so far? (unless you’ve been too busy to check the comic lately)

  53. Danm0207
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:19 AM | Permalink

    What blogs do you read?

  54. Honken
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:21 AM | Permalink

    What operating system do you use?

  55. Bfromaustin
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:23 AM | Permalink

    What do you think happens to chocolate frogs after their one good hop?

  56. Vaccine For Stupid
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:24 AM | Permalink

    hey there pat,

    any chance you’ll be showing the western states some love in the future? I’d love to come to a book signing or something like that and say hi but on a college budget cross country travel is generally out of the question.

    Jake

  57. Antho
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

    If you had to rewrite The Name Of The Wind from the perspective of another character which one would it be?

  58. Synergy012
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

    If you could hang out/pick the brain of Felicia Day or Stephen King, who would it be?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:34 AM | Permalink

      I’d pick Felicia. She was a lot of fun to hang out with before. King would be an unknown quantity.

  59. Murdoc the Mad
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

    Why does Simmon live in the bunks? What with being nobility and all, surely he has some money to afford better housing, right?

  60. elderbonnie
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

    If you could possess the power to shift into any animal on earth, which animal would it be?

  61. JoeLlama
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:25 AM | Permalink

    This last weekend, did you get a sense of yearning and an inexplicable urge to drive to Minneapolis? CONvergence 2010 was great, but you were missed by many!

  62. Charis
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:26 AM | Permalink

    Assuming you’re still signing books under the condition of a peace offering, is there anything you need that I could crochet for you? Blanket, scarf, leg warmers? (colors would be great too!)

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:50 AM | Permalink

      Hmmm… Maybe a hat? Non-wool please.

      • Charis
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:52 AM | Permalink

        Only the softest yarn for you! Ear flaps, or no? (I can also make baby ones!)

        • JoeLlama
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 11:30 AM | Permalink

          *coughJayneHatcough*

        • JoeLlama
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 11:48 AM | Permalink

          On second thought, there’s no way Pat doesn’t already have a Jayne Hat.

          • Widow Of Sirius
            Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:15 PM | Permalink

            I think he’d wear the Jayne Hat more than the pink fuzzball hat if he had one.
            Also, I want one.

  63. MaeSusume
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:26 AM | Permalink

    What do you consider the optimal number of children for a family? Do you hope to produce that number with Sarah?

    • Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:36 AM | Permalink

      Multi-question. Disqualified.

  64. Luke Casey
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:27 AM | Permalink

    Will there be a map in WMF? If there’s a map I’ll make you brownies, delicious brownies of bribery goodness :D

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:42 AM | Permalink

      I second this request and raise you a soothing ice cream cake to be sent to you via teleporter, whenever those are invented

      • Luke Casey
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 3:55 PM | Permalink

        I’ll see your ice cream cake and raise an additonal pie of your choice (IE, Apple, Cherry, Peach, American)

        • riotorange
          Posted July 6, 2010 at 6:12 PM | Permalink

          *holds up a sign that reads “will draw maps for treats” *

  65. griffitz
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:27 AM | Permalink

    What did the winners of “the favor” from the Worldbuilders fundraiser ask for?

  66. Jeffrey Reuther
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:27 AM | Permalink

    Are you a djinn?

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:29 AM | Permalink

      oh wow haha i havent remembered those in forever

  67. Jana
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:29 AM | Permalink

    How many seasons of Doctor Who have you seen (like since the first doctor? did you start later? I started with 9th doctor’s first seaon)?

    Which Doctor is your favorite? Which companion?

    • Jana
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:39 AM | Permalink

      If this is too many questions, I’d love to know which Doctor is your favorite. I can’t decide between 10 and 11, myself.

      • Lioness
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 8:17 AM | Permalink

        Nor can I, but I’m leaning heavily towards 11

  68. lady20620
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:30 AM | Permalink

    What is your favorite line/ sentence from Name of the Wind?

  69. Santiago
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:30 AM | Permalink

    Did you create Kvothe’s story or his world first?

  70. deltaflip
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:31 AM | Permalink

    Would you at all consider reading a couple short stories that I myself have written and giving me feedback on them?

  71. Effilcdar
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:32 AM | Permalink

    On machine gun q&a: have you ever tried using one? A machine gun I mean. I’m just picturing it now. Shell casings stuck in the beard.

    A few 8.5×11 glossies of you with an ak-47 would really reassure the TSA idiots that you’re completely harmless.

    • melanie
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:36 AM | Permalink

      perhaps that could be a t-shirt idea,…”my stories will kill you”

  72. frant1a
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:34 AM | Permalink

    If you could live in anyone’s created fantasy world (let’s keep it to published prose works to avoid any potential for lewd or otherwise TMI fantasies), whose would it be?

  73. deathforhob
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:34 AM | Permalink

    Hey pat might be too late, but whats your favorite story in the sandman series?

  74. Synergy012
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:35 AM | Permalink

    What do you think of Steven Brust’s writing?

  75. Mossy Toes
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:38 AM | Permalink

    I never learned the name that won itself into the book. Might you be willing to share? (or, if it was already blogged, might some kind commenter link me to it, please?)

    • begna112
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:43 AM | Permalink

      im pretty sure he said it would be in the book. something like a dedication page but a winner’s page

  76. Chaos2651
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:38 AM | Permalink

    I heard you liked Brandon Sanderson’s The Way of Kings. Is it worth the money?

  77. Widow Of Sirius
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:38 AM | Permalink

    How is/was the Boney Billy?

  78. begna112
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:40 AM | Permalink

    after the king killer chronicles are finished do you plan/ have you thought about writing other books in the same world?

  79. Gourey
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:40 AM | Permalink

    so im trying to be a writer, making a world, writing books all that fun stuff. Though at this point im not sure i will get anything out ever to be published, having a hard time with names. Also work is getting in way or writing, any advice on how to get in a good writing state quickly? i cant afford to quit work to get more write time, so need ways to get in writing moods faster.

  80. Darkside
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:43 AM | Permalink

    If you had to recommend one book to someone, what would it be?

  81. fearsome
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:44 AM | Permalink

    Say i’m a genius in a french lamp, you have 3 wishes for typical french food!

  82. deltaflip
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:50 AM | Permalink

    another question: Are you a Pearl Jam person or a Metallica person? Or an “I don’t really listen to music” person?

  83. Mallory
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:01 AM | Permalink

    If you’re wearing pants: What’s the most useful thing in your pocket?

    If you are not wearing pants: Woo! Party!

  84. Panda Girl
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:03 AM | Permalink

    Can I send you the money to pay for a copy of the NOTW and you can sign it and send it back to me? Because it costs ALOT to send a book to America from Australia and back again.

  85. bekka
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:03 AM | Permalink

    Master Rothfuss,
    I am here to remind you again about your overseas fans and their insatiable need to send you gifts in return for your John Hancock.
    May I always live to serve you and your crown,
    Bekka x

  86. Traclo
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:05 AM | Permalink

    As a bearded man myself I’ve always wondered whether those with awesome beards planned it at some point.

    So… Mr. Rothfuss, when you were young and were picturing yourself later in life, did you have a beard in these fantastical scenerios?

  87. Chocolate Sushi
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:08 AM | Permalink

    Do you play League of Legends? It’s free and all the geeky, penniless, yet-to-be-published fantasy authors play.

  88. Liam
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:19 AM | Permalink

    What was your favourite class in university?

  89. Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:29 AM | Permalink

    Didn’t you write any short stories you would like to share – or at least collect officially published shorts (if there are) somewhere on this page? To pass time until … you know :)

  90. Joshua Peters
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:32 AM | Permalink

    Hello Pat!

    I am curious: what aspect of world-building do you find the most challenging but rewarding when done perfectly?

  91. saighdeoir
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:33 AM | Permalink

    God: awesome deity, or awful deity?

  92. Lanre
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:38 AM | Permalink

    Who’s a favorite female author writing today (or recently)?

  93. Geyter
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:04 AM | Permalink

    I know you’re a Cowboy Bebop fan and thus watch anime, but what is your favourite manga (or top 5 if it’s too hard)?

    (I think the reason I am so into manga, bildungsromans and rpg’s is the aspect of growth. There is probably a deep-seated psychological reason for that… Meh.)

    • Geyter
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:06 AM | Permalink

      Sorry! Didn’t see the time limit. I’ll mosey off now.

  94. Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:09 AM | Permalink

    Why can’t I get a decent night of sleep?

  95. Kay
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 6:50 AM | Permalink

    Im prob not on time but here goes:

    when you get a craving (food) what must you have? not a small hankering but a I-must-have-this-now! craving.

  96. PR
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 7:29 AM | Permalink

    Is it strange to be recognized all around the world? I bet you would be recognized even in Asia(which is where I live…)

    • PR
      Posted July 6, 2010 at 7:31 AM | Permalink

      By the way, PR doesn’t stand for your name… just so that you wouldn’t be excited..LOL

      • PR
        Posted July 6, 2010 at 7:31 AM | Permalink

        Damn I didn’t see the time limit….

  97. malical
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 9:48 AM | Permalink

    Oh come on! I checked your blog about 10 minutes too early, and 12 hours to late.
    If possible: What does “Aroi te denna-leyan” mean? It is page 14, after Reshi switches languages and Bast finds it offensive. The first one I can muddle through, that one, no luck.

    • Angelbaka
      Posted July 8, 2010 at 2:06 AM | Permalink

      I believe it means something along the lines of “Begone by the name of Denna” or some such. He is, after all, jokingly trying to banish Bast. I’d be more interested in knowing which language he’s using.

      Of course, I could be completely and totally wrong. Always a possibility.

  98. bbucsis
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 12:38 PM | Permalink

    How long until you post an answer to my email?

  99. Max
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 1:39 PM | Permalink

    Have you tried drinking Dr. Pepper through a red licorice?

  100. Owen.Roberts
    Posted July 6, 2010 at 2:31 PM | Permalink

    what’s your favorite Whedonverse couple?

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