Machine Gun Q&A #5

A while back, I offered people the chance to ask me questions in the comment section of the blog. Nothing profound, just fun little questions that would never get asked in a real interview. I think of it as a machine gun interview.

It turned out to be fun, and I’ve done a few of them since then.

The last one I did was in February, so I figured we were about due for another one.

With previous Machine Gun Q&A, I only accepted questions for an hour or two before I shut things down, but today I’m going to leave the door open for a day or so. Until Monday at midnight, central time.

Before, you needed to hurry to get your question in before the time was up. But now that’s not an issue. You have plenty of time.This time, the challenge will be coming up with a question interesting enough that I’ll want to answer it. Because, honestly, I’m only going to answer the questions that amuse me in one way or another.Here are the rules. Please 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 some lovely person wants to post up a link to where the answer to that question can be found, that would be very 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 reserve the right to delete unanswered questions so people reading the blog later have an easier time navigating the comments.

Okay. We clear on the rules?

You’ve got a day to post up your questions. I’ll be logging on throughout the day answer the ones that are interesting to me. Questions posted after Monday at midnight will be ignored.

Ready?

Go.

pat

[Edit: It’s midnight. So we’re closing the door on new questions.

We got more than I expected. About 400-500, twice as many as last time.
I’ve answered some of them, and over the next day I’ll be going through and answering more as the mood strikes me and time allows.
Thanks for playing. I had a good time with this one…. ]
This entry was posted in Machine Gun Q&A. By Pat873 Responses

272 Comments

  1. kittyross
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:29 AM | Permalink

    What is your favourite type of candy?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:09 AM | Permalink

      Free candy.

      • ajalbinak
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:51 PM | Permalink

        Wow. I work for a candy company. That was SO the machine gun answer that’s gonna get you some. Chocolate or caramel? Or, one less decision for today, both?

  2. Joshua_Guess
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:30 AM | Permalink

    Is your NaNoWriMo work being done on “The Doors of Stone” or are you stretching your creative muscles a little and working on a different project?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:10 AM | Permalink

      I’ll be answering this soon in a blog.

      • Joshua_Guess
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:24 AM | Permalink

        Nifty. Thank you, sir.

  3. Blarghedy
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:30 AM | Permalink

    What do you think of Minecraft?
    (Sorry I’ve been guilty of 7c once or twice)

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:10 AM | Permalink

      Indifferent. (Haven’t played it.)

      • charriu
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:19 AM | Permalink

        You’re missing out :(

        • Blarghedy
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:24 AM | Permalink

          I agree entirely. Minecraft seems like something Pat’ll either love or hate.

  4. Maureen
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:32 AM | Permalink

    Do you miss teaching? Do you ever think you will go back to it?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:11 AM | Permalink

      I do miss it, but not right now, as I’m getting to teach my first-ever real creative writing class this semester… .

      • Maureen
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:20 AM | Permalink

        Sweeeeet

      • Dianadomino
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 5:25 PM | Permalink

        Note to self: Move to Wisconsin, get a job, take creative writing class from Patrick Rothfuss.

  5. Blarghedy
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:32 AM | Permalink

    How many of NPR’s top 100 have you read?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:17 AM | Permalink

      At a quick count, I’ve read 68 of them.

      Interestingly, I’ve read 19 out of the top 20, but only 5 out of the final 15 on the list.

      • Blarghedy
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:25 AM | Permalink

        Heh, guess you have good taste in fantasy (big surprise there)

  6. leneghad
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:32 AM | Permalink

    You’re offered the job of fifth Horseman of the Apocalypse (sixth if you count Terry Pratchett’s Mr. Soak) you can choose anything to be horseman of, what do you choose?

    • Blarghedy
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:35 AM | Permalink

      I’ve read Good Omens twice, and I don’t recall a “Mr. Soak”… what’s that from?

      • Mossy Toes
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:42 AM | Permalink

        Thief of Time

        • Blarghedy
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:44 AM | Permalink

          I figured it’d be Discworld. I still need to read that series.
          Thanks for the info.

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:18 AM | Permalink

      Corporate Interests

      • Arcy
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:35 AM | Permalink

        Excellent choice.

      • Marcus Cox
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:30 AM | Permalink

        Absolutely brilliant.

  7. AaronAAA
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:35 AM | Permalink

    If you had the ability to spend one day doing absolutely anything you wanted, where you would be absolved from any illicit behavior or actions, what would you do?

  8. crunk
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:36 AM | Permalink

    What musical instruments do you play?

    • ChaosAthena
      Posted November 22, 2011 at 12:46 AM | Permalink

      He doesn’t play any. He’s just that awesome as a writer.

      Q&A Where Pat explains he doesn’t play an instrument

      • missalena
        Posted November 29, 2011 at 8:06 PM | Permalink

        Your answer just makes me think of Chuck Norris.

        Pat Rothfuss is the Chuck Norris of Fantasy Literature. He saves his words like an Adem so they can roundhouse kick you in the face.

  9. rain
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:36 AM | Permalink

    Do you sort different sized books on a shelf by height or by width?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:19 AM | Permalink

      Anyone who sorts their books by height is quite probably insane.

      • rain
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:51 AM | Permalink

        I envy people with books that have standardized sizes. Germany is like the nation of standards (what with all the DIN-Stuff…). Why do our books have all those queer sizes…

        • Merri
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:15 AM | Permalink

          Not all the books are the same size, they vary for each publisher and if they were, that would be kind of boring…

          • rain
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:55 AM | Permalink

            They vary slightly from publisher to publisher and in between the formats (paperbacks, trade paperbacks etc) but in general you could make rows with the same size. Paperbacks for example are almost identical in sizes throughout.
            Here in Germany even the same publishers use different sizes resulting in a quite hilly landscape on the shelves.
            I don’t consider same size as boring. DVDs are always the same and they’re still as exciting/boring as if they’d have different sizes.

          • gordug
            Posted November 23, 2011 at 7:41 AM | Permalink

            All of my books are currently kindle sized.

            However my Kindle devices come in a variety of sizes.

      • Marcus Cox
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:36 AM | Permalink

        You sir, just called my wife insane. On this topic I’m inclined to agree with you.

        • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:37 AM | Permalink

          Yes. The only sensible way to order one’s books is by color and the age of the author at the time they wrote it.

          • Schwartz the Younger
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:36 AM | Permalink

            Absolutely! ‘Cause it just looks freakin’ awesome.

          • Schwartz the Younger
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:41 AM | Permalink
          • Teppic
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 3:17 PM | Permalink

            Careful, some fanatic Tolem scriv may read this blog, that´s no joking matter…

          • spoonyspork
            Posted November 22, 2011 at 1:23 PM | Permalink

            @Schwartz — Oh. My. I don’t think I can politely discuss what those pictures did to me. I’ll be in my bunk…

            (in my bunk to arranging my books this way, quite probably)

          • Rhia
            Posted November 22, 2011 at 2:47 PM | Permalink

            After seeing this, I feel pretty boring…..on the other hand, I’d never be able to find anything….

          • varun4537
            Posted November 23, 2011 at 8:05 AM | Permalink

            i do it on the basis of their awesomeness… you are tied for third!!!

  10. Timmzay
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:36 AM | Permalink

    Are there any circumstances that cannot be improved by a high-five?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:31 AM | Permalink

      Yes.

      • farleykj
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:10 PM | Permalink

        i.e. completion of a successful batch at the contact explosive factory.

  11. Mikael H
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:36 AM | Permalink

    How do you keep track of all your revisions? There are quite a few of them as I understand…

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:32 AM | Permalink

      I don’t bother for the most part….

  12. NetaliaLackless
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:37 AM | Permalink

    Who is your favourite character to write for, besides Kvothe?

  13. tayvang
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:37 AM | Permalink

    If you could have any fantasy character as your best friend who would it be?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:22 AM | Permalink

      Tom Bombadil. Dude knows how to party.

      • Dominiquex
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:36 AM | Permalink

        Oh my, so freakin’ awesome!

      • greggors
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:00 PM | Permalink

        absolutely, so sad he didnt make it into the movies!

      • hofizzle
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:35 PM | Permalink

        Thank you for saying that it was a tradgedy that Tom did not make it into the trilogy.

      • Frank
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 2:27 AM | Permalink

        Haha, I now have the persistent image of two big bearded guys frolicking around, laughing at rings and cussing at old willow trees. This will brighten up my day!

  14. huoxingren
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:39 AM | Permalink

    Which character of the Kingkiller Chronicle is secretly a lesbian unicorn (if he/she has already appeared)?

  15. Kvothelover
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:40 AM | Permalink

    What did you think of the London riots?

  16. Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:42 AM | Permalink

    Would you ever sell your beard?

    • LisaB
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:28 PM | Permalink

      Hahahahaahahahaha…ha

    • Shea
      Posted November 23, 2011 at 2:55 PM | Permalink

      …or maybe take out a $1 MILLION insurance policy on it

  17. kevjava
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:43 AM | Permalink

    I’ve seen some writers say that when it flows, they’re unstoppable, and I’ve heard some say that 500 words is a good day. When you’re laying down a first draft, do you prefer to take the speed approach of NaNoWriMo (1,667 words/day, no matter what, fix it later), or do you write more slowly and deliberatively?

  18. mezentius2
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:45 AM | Permalink

    You obviously do a LOT of thinking before you set pen to paper. I think that’s part of why your books reward multiple readings. My question: when and where do you like to do this thinking?

    • Thigis
      Posted November 23, 2011 at 2:29 PM | Permalink

      oddly enough, despite the fact htat i loved both books, i couldn’t reread either of them. i think my memory is too good :(

  19. karatematt
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:45 AM | Permalink

    You ever thought about writing comedy?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:23 AM | Permalink

      I do write comedy.

      • angry_buddha
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:35 AM | Permalink

        Hahahahahaha

      • karatematt
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:54 AM | Permalink

        Nice..

      • Sominus
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:45 PM | Permalink

        I could not agree more.

      • mgwa
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:54 PM | Permalink

        Absolutely – there’s some wonderful comedy in your books. I get bipolar between the laughing and the crying ;-)

      • Shea
        Posted November 23, 2011 at 2:57 PM | Permalink

        You mean the Guinea Pig Story didn’t have you rolling?!?!

  20. Peeper_j
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:46 AM | Permalink

    I have never visited Wisconsin. Other than yourself, what Wisconsin treasure should I visit?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:23 AM | Permalink

      House on the Rock.

      • slsmitty25
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 9:08 AM | Permalink

        Isn’t there a fantasy novel where the main character visits House on the Rock…i think it is Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel series. Good reads that.

        • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:38 AM | Permalink

          Oh please. I’m pretty sure you’re just baiting me now.

          It’s American Gods by Neil Gaiman.

          • RoyceShatzel
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:03 PM | Permalink

            The man knows his stuff! XD No offense good sir, but American Gods is my all time favorite book. <3 Neil Gaiman. :D

          • slsmitty25
            Posted November 22, 2011 at 8:21 AM | Permalink

            Oh, my bad! of course you’re right! I sometimes get confused by all the YA stuff I read to book talk to the students! Thanks for the clarification. I enjoyed American Gods too!

  21. tankred
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:46 AM | Permalink

    If you could, what would you say to Kote?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:24 AM | Permalink

      “Fuck. Dude. I’m sorry.”

      • Mark G. Schroeder
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:29 PM | Permalink

        Words can’t express how much I love this response.

        • Dianadomino
          Posted November 22, 2011 at 5:28 PM | Permalink

          Indeed! <3

          • Mauren Rimloth
            Posted November 25, 2011 at 4:26 PM | Permalink

            I agree.

    • JoeLlama
      Posted November 22, 2011 at 4:33 PM | Permalink

      Very cool question!

      And answer.

  22. Mossy Toes
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:47 AM | Permalink

    What has the most surprising response (from the community at large or from an individual) to the release of book 2?

  23. Laura777
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:48 AM | Permalink

    If you could use only one word to describe Denna; what would it be?

  24. Crim88
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:49 AM | Permalink

    Water or Heart?

  25. Kurpav
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:50 AM | Permalink

    You sit down next to me at the bar and ask me a question to start a meaningful conversation, what is that question?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:24 AM | Permalink

      “You sit down next to me at the bar and ask me a question to start a meaningful conversation, what is that question?”

      • Kurpav
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:45 AM | Permalink

        I’m going to go try this and will report back on the ratio of success to bewilderment.

  26. Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:51 AM | Permalink

    What color of socks do you wear usually?

  27. muyiscoi
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:51 AM | Permalink

    Is there any particular reason why you don’t cut your beard anymore?

  28. Billie
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:54 AM | Permalink

    So, because it came up on fb that other time — Bast in eyeliner. Yes, no, maybe? :D

  29. Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:55 AM | Permalink

    Name the top books on writing that have actually helped you.

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:25 AM | Permalink

      None. I don’t read that sort of thing….

  30. malo
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:56 AM | Permalink

    Gandalf or Merlin?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:25 AM | Permalink

      Gandalf.

      • Joshua_Guess
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:27 AM | Permalink

        Dumbledore.

        • atermiclord
          Posted November 25, 2011 at 8:19 PM | Permalink

          Come on! Dumbledore over Gandalf?!

  31. Taure
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:56 AM | Permalink

    Do you think there are sufficient hints in The Name of the Wind and Wise Man’s Fear for a smart reader to deduce (or land upon by sheer inspired luck) major plot points of Doors of Stone? Or are we missing vital information that would make any reader extremely unlikely to guess what’s coming next?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:27 AM | Permalink

      Congratulations on ignoring almost every rule I set out in the blog.

      • Brick92
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 6:46 AM | Permalink

        I would really appreciate it if you could overlook the rules and just answer the question.

      • Alexander the Pretty Good
        Posted November 28, 2011 at 5:55 PM | Permalink

        My wife says your rules and that response remind her of Sheldon Cooper from Big Bang Theory.

  32. biankonera
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:57 AM | Permalink

    Who were you in your previous life?

  33. Taure
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:59 AM | Permalink

    Oh, also: do you have Skyrim? If so, what kind of character do you play as?

    (I’m doing a role-play as Kumori from The Dresden Files. No weapons, no armour, avoiding destruction magic as much as possible, focusing on conjuration, restoration, and alteration, with a bit of alchemy and enchanting thrown in.)

    • CrymsynEve
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:56 PM | Permalink

      Lot of respect. Read, and love, Dresden Files, and have played Elder Scrolls. How’s it working out as Kumori?

  34. la noruega
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:02 AM | Permalink

    What is your favorite thing about Norway? There’s a lot to chose from.

  35. Kay
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:03 AM | Permalink

    (This question is if you play D&D) What is your favourite medieval type call when you play d&d? Like something you like to yell while killing goblins or before you enter a dungeon?

  36. jb
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:08 AM | Permalink

    What software do you use to organize and write your books?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:27 AM | Permalink

      None. I use an old copy of word 97 to write. That’s it.

      • MTimonin
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 8:49 AM | Permalink

        That’s surprisingly hardcore.

      • jb
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:23 PM | Permalink

        Never tried something like Scrivener or Ulysses? Word97 sounds really rudimentary.

        • Thigis
          Posted November 23, 2011 at 2:46 PM | Permalink

          how does Scrivener compare to Latex or Miktex as a type setter?

      • endo
        Posted November 24, 2011 at 4:08 AM | Permalink

        Yeah, sorry about forcing you to upgrade like that. I never did figure out how to get Wordstar to work under XP

  37. BlueBell
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:10 AM | Permalink

    Kvothe vs. Edward Elric from FullMetal Alchemist

    Who would win?

    • ZombiEli
      Posted December 17, 2011 at 2:05 AM | Permalink

      Kvothe knows absolutely nothing about alchemy…

  38. right_geek
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:11 AM | Permalink

    Have you considered or will you consider writing separate stories or books set in the same universe, but focusing on different characters?

    I especially mean Devi. She is one of my favorite fantasy characters ever and I would love to read a novelette or, even better, a novel with her as the main character.

  39. Ippswich
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:12 AM | Permalink

    If you could be any kind of Super Hero, what would your special abilities be?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:34 AM | Permalink

      I would be super-hot.

      • lyraadriana
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 9:32 AM | Permalink

        Congratulaions, you are already a super hero.

        • Vpulski
          Posted November 23, 2011 at 4:50 PM | Permalink

          Agreed.

  40. XETWS
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:12 AM | Permalink

    you would have me as an apprentice / protege / helper / handyman?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:34 AM | Permalink

      Do you live in Stevens Point?

      • XETWS
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:40 AM | Permalink

        no, but I would move

  41. Sloth
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:13 AM | Permalink

    did you base kvothe off vivaldi?

  42. Tungil
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:14 AM | Permalink

    How is Oot doing?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:35 AM | Permalink

      Good. He’s super-chatty lately. It’s cool….

  43. Smollet
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:15 AM | Permalink

    Favourite Joss Whedon character?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:39 AM | Permalink

      That’s hard. After thinking it over for a while, I’d have to go with Dr. Horrible.

      • Kiaya
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 4:43 PM | Permalink

        Ha. Pish. River Tamm is best!!!

      • Johnny Snow
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 12:48 PM | Permalink

        Dude! How can you say that? You know he’s my arch nemesis, I thought we were Bro’s?! That’s it, meet me in Dooley Park at midnight, it’s on!

  44. otineb
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:16 AM | Permalink

    Favorite Beatles song?

  45. Tharingail
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:17 AM | Permalink

    Through countless days and sleepless nights
    a question came to curious mind.
    If a song can stir a soul to burn,
    what song will choose yourself in turn?
    Answer this with rhyme and reason,
    or else it would count as treason. ;)

  46. JoseyWales
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:17 AM | Permalink

    If they ever filmed a second series of Firefly (God forbid) …. would you be interested in writing/directing for said series?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:36 AM | Permalink

      I don’t know. That’s a terrifying thought, in all honesty… Yeah I’d love to, but I don’t know if I’m good enough to do the series justice….

      • brrbear
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:06 PM | Permalink

        you do yourself a great injustice, sir!

      • gordug
        Posted November 23, 2011 at 7:49 AM | Permalink

        Could you really do worse than the last writers?

  47. pharis81
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:22 AM | Permalink

    If you were forming a ragtag team, and could only pick one more person between these two people, whom would you choose: Han Solo or Jack Burton?

  48. RoyceShatzel
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:22 AM | Permalink

    Favorite piece of advice that got you through the early years of your writing career.

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:37 AM | Permalink

      “You’re writing a novel, and to write a novel is to have… doubts.”

      • Mark G. Schroeder
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:31 PM | Permalink

        I’ve moved straight to “utter conviction that I suck”.

      • SundanceJL
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 5:16 PM | Permalink

        Love it. Who offered this bit of wisdom?

  49. Trig
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:24 AM | Permalink

    What’s up with dust jackets? Are they some kind of industry standard or just the cheapest option available?

    As an explanation where I’m coming from: Most people (according to several polls I’ve read) simply take them off before they even start reading a book. It’s too easy to damage them and ruin the beautiful cover, but this way we’re holding a simple black book in our hands, which is annoying considering how much work went into those covers and how good looking they actually are.

  50. RoyceShatzel
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:25 AM | Permalink

    Which Hogwarts house (Gryfindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, RavenClaw) would you have wanted to have been in?

  51. vijayk1984
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:33 AM | Permalink

    i’ve often wondered how you construct your books. do you allow the story to take over, and go where it pleases? or do you some definite idea/reason for each plot element?

  52. rewind.replay.repeat
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:36 AM | Permalink

    What type of Kingkiller Chronicles fanfiction do you want someone to write for you?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:41 AM | Permalink

      Kvothe has a threesome with Willow and Evil Willow.

      Nah. Screw that. If it’s going to be fanfic, I want it to be ME having a threesome with Willow and Evil Willow.

      • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:41 AM | Permalink

        Wait. Is that too creepy?

        • Joshua_Guess
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 12:17 PM | Permalink

          As a fan of yours and a fellow writer, I am going to make this shit happen.

          • Proper
            Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:18 PM | Permalink

            Link when completed.

        • brrbear
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:08 PM | Permalink

          no, but it reminds me of a joke…where the punchline is “i’m just checking for bees!”

        • rewind.replay.repeat
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 9:34 PM | Permalink

          no…I don’t think anything can top Giant Squid/Hogwarts Castle or maybe J. K. Rowling/Giant Squid

        • cheech1898
          Posted November 26, 2011 at 3:44 PM | Permalink

          worst mental picture ever… I thought you meant Willow Ufgood.

      • rumbleroar
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 9:40 AM | Permalink

        This is super awesome because I’m in the process of re-watching Buffy, and I saw that episode a couple nights ago.

  53. Christine
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:37 AM | Permalink

    We met briefly at your readings & book signing in Wanakee WI, I’ve been wanting to say thank you for an awesome evening, most of the things I wanted ask were immediately forgotten since it’s not often you end up walking around Madison with one of your favorite authors.

    Thank you and I recently saw a listing somewhere that said book three is only going to be release in 2014, please tell me that’s not true?

  54. DrFood
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:39 AM | Permalink

    What’s a dennerling? They sound small. . .

  55. Warhound Ulrik Ezickial
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:39 AM | Permalink

    Have you ever eaten Vegemite on toast?

  56. Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:45 AM | Permalink

    Are you generally happy? Or is there anything, you dream about, but can’t get?

  57. stevo_raga
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:47 AM | Permalink

    Human-Elven relationships are well established. How do you feel about Human-Centaur relationships?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:44 AM | Permalink

      Heh. Phil Foglio did a comic about that once….

  58. Knightrous
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:48 AM | Permalink

    I’ve just started reading “Inheritance” by Christopher Paolini, there’s a mention of someone called Kvoth (yes, no “e”, not a typo): coincidence or tribute?

    • wem
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:22 PM | Permalink

      [comment removed on account of extreme snark.]

      • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:33 PM | Permalink

        Now now. Let’s be civil.

        • Knightrous
          Posted November 28, 2011 at 5:15 AM | Permalink

          Now curious as to what could be written on here that would be yanked.

  59. Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:48 AM | Permalink

    I’m running on no sleep. What hallucination should I try to have?

    • gordug
      Posted November 23, 2011 at 7:53 AM | Permalink

      Replay the events of the last book you read in your head as if you were there.

    • Thigis
      Posted November 23, 2011 at 2:56 PM | Permalink

      I vote for the willow & evil willow threesome scenario

  60. Darkshore
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:49 AM | Permalink

    What sparked the idea for The Kingkiller Chronicles? Hoping this is a short answer…hehe, just haven’t heard you say it before. Did it start with the idea of an old legend fading away at an inn, or perhaps visions of a fiery haired youth? Just curious. I Love your work by the way Pat. Very inspiring.

  61. Dracc
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:52 AM | Permalink

    Manet is light on his feet and good with the lasdies despite his rotundness and apparent social akwardness. Are you?

  62. Widow Of Sirius
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:55 AM | Permalink

    If you were teaching a fantasy/sci-fi class to high schoolers, which books would you use?
    (I may be stealing your ideas for next semester)

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:34 PM | Permalink

      Boy. I’d have to think about that for a long while. It would depend a lot on the class….

    • armyofoz
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 9:47 PM | Permalink

      Ender’s Game!!

      • JoeLlama
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 4:45 PM | Permalink

        Seconded.

      • Widow Of Sirius
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 5:29 PM | Permalink

        I’ve taught Ender’s Game once… I think it’s definitely a good start, though I’m now considering doing an all-Neil Gaiman class… short stories, the children’s books, then working our way up to American Gods or Neverwhere…

        • bookwyrmpoet
          Posted November 23, 2011 at 8:12 AM | Permalink

          wait wait wait, how can you talk about this without even mentioning Terry Pratchett, personally the books about the Night Watch are my all time favorite, followed by the Tiffany Aching books, and either set would keep you busy for a long while.

  63. oli
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:56 AM | Permalink

    Favourate quote?

  64. Roberticus
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:00 AM | Permalink

    Favorite Buffy the Vampire Slayer episode and/or character?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:45 AM | Permalink

      “The Zeppo” or “A hole in the world.”

      • Wousje
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:41 AM | Permalink

        Once more with feeling!

      • ranarok
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 3:59 PM | Permalink

        Not to be a picky asshat, but I’m pretty sure “A hole in the world” was Angel. Same universe, though. It’s a Fred-centric episode wihtout getting too spoilery.

  65. Aetter
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:00 AM | Permalink

    Any TV series currently airing that caught your interest?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:46 AM | Permalink

      Nah. I haven’t watched any serious TV in years. The last one I got obsessed about was Scrubs. I once watched an entire season in one day….

      • lykashii
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:32 PM | Permalink

        I am already a huge fan. But you have just secured the top spot in my favourite authors of all time list.

  66. emuroo
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:01 AM | Permalink

    Are there gay characters in the Name of the Wind universe?

    • Oliver Stein Inc.
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 3:00 PM | Permalink

      Deoch/Stanchion (Canon)
      Unkown guy who digs Kvothe

      • johnw314
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:21 PM | Permalink

        At least one of those is bisexual, according to Denna (I forget which).

  67. aceface33
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:01 AM | Permalink

    Are you into anime at all?

  68. MartinF
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:02 AM | Permalink

    My question is a simple one, albeit one that you may get asked a lot. Why are you so awesome?

  69. talenea
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:02 AM | Permalink

    Have you ever visit latin america? If not, wich place would you like to go?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:48 AM | Permalink

      Machu Picchu.

      • Elena
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:52 PM | Permalink

        I’m going to Machu Picchu next month and I would love to take you and your familiy with me if I could! : )

      • Artheos
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 3:27 PM | Permalink
        • Mauren Rimloth
          Posted November 25, 2011 at 4:34 PM | Permalink

          If you go to Macchu Picchu, post it on the blog, so i know when you will be here in Peru! =D

  70. rtharper
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:02 AM | Permalink

    Is the “cadence” you refer to regarding the Adem language vowel length, stress, or pitch accent (or something else?)

  71. Darb07
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:05 AM | Permalink

    Do you think Keanu Reeves will be able to pull off Spike Spegiel in the Live Action Cowboy Bebop Movie they have been slowly working on?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:49 AM | Permalink

      Fuck. I didn’t know about that until right now. So I go directly from ignorance to disappointment. Keanu? Fuck.

      • brrbear
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:04 PM | Permalink

        from the same rumor mill of keanu and the bebop comes the rumor of cancellation due to costs…

      • gordug
        Posted November 23, 2011 at 7:57 AM | Permalink

        I have to agree there, that would be the worst casting ever.
        sure he’s depressed enough but you need someone with some animation to them to be spike.

    • RoyceShatzel
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:10 PM | Permalink

      WAIT. seriously? D:

    • Widow Of Sirius
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:02 PM | Permalink

      This just kind of ruined my day.

  72. talenea
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:05 AM | Permalink

    Is there a character from the fantasy novel universe that would get along with Kvothe??

  73. adam
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:07 AM | Permalink

    Do you bother with Facebook/Twitter?

  74. talenea
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:08 AM | Permalink

    I imagine the creative writting class Elodinlike, are you that way with your students???

  75. Geekgirl
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:09 AM | Permalink

    In your opinion will the end of the world come as a zombie apocalypse or Old-Testament-style earth shattering disaster?

  76. Chro
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:11 AM | Permalink

    Obviously your books are monstrous tomes by the time they are published. But how long (word count-wise) are they when you finish your first draft? I’m curious if you’re the kind of author that has to trim down or flesh out.

  77. Noth
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:12 AM | Permalink

    Not very witty but, if you were to have a scene drawn from your books, comic style or whatever, what would it be?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:35 PM | Permalink

      Tehlu holding Encanis to the wheel in the style of Waterhouse.

      • hopeful.monster
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 10:14 PM | Permalink

        Waterhouse is a beautiful choice. Boreas has to be one of the most captivating paintings of the 20th century.

      • murfiss
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 1:18 AM | Permalink

        That’s pretty telling- I’d never heard of Waterhouse until I read this post, but, after looking at his stuff, the tone in his paintings does feel similar in style to the more bittersweet parts of the books (although I might just be suggestible because of my super-fandom)

        • slsmitty25
          Posted November 22, 2011 at 8:33 AM | Permalink

          I also looked at Waterhouse to see the style of artist. It is very good work, the pictures grab you. There is one, The Naiad, 1893 that seems to be reflective of how I saw Auri.

  78. josephwdye
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:12 AM | Permalink

    would you record your creative writing class for the internet to enjoy and learn from?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:36 PM | Permalink

      Nope.

    • Jackary
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:44 PM | Permalink

      If you want a teeny bit of Pat writing advice, there’s an episode of Writing Excuses where Pat’s a guest (6.14 – Suspension of Disbelief).

      It’s a really good podcast that’s worth a listen. You can access it on iTunes for free or on the website – http://www.writingexcuses.com/

  79. nako
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:19 AM | Permalink

    Who would win a beauty contest with you on the jury, Dena or Felurian?

  80. Mojojojo449
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:22 AM | Permalink

    When a character quotes a play/song/philosopher, have you written the song or play out? (I guess you haven’t written out an entire philosophy book but maybe a quick note like this guy believed this about the world and guy 2. believed this so if I’m going to make this a quote it should be from this guy)

    • Mojojojo449
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:24 AM | Permalink

      Ps. Thanks so much for taking the time to do this, its one of my favorite kind of posts that you do

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:37 PM | Permalink

      Sometimes not. Sometimes a little. Sometimes a lot.

  81. yakoaohw
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:23 AM | Permalink

    Slurpees or Icees

    (bear in mind I will be judging your strength of character by your answer)

  82. Kathrine
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:24 AM | Permalink

    What is Oot’s favourite book? My children love “Jabberwoky”at that age.

  83. jqnnie
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:25 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat, No sitting on the fence please as I know you like both but who would you rather (if possible) Kvothe teamed up with in a fight? Harry Dresden or Eragon?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:39 PM | Permalink

      I would shit a gold brick of pure delight to see Harry and Kvothe team up on something.

      But who the hell could possibly pose a challenge to the two of them together?

      • Jed
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 3:07 PM | Permalink

        Harry/Kvothe Vs. Evil Willow/Willow

        Guest Referee: Pat

        (not the threesome you were wanting??)

      • s.petry
        Posted November 28, 2011 at 3:46 PM | Permalink

        Pinky in the corner of the mouth:
        They are no match for Dr. Evil! Mwuahahaha

  84. brucebjr
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:26 AM | Permalink

    Will there,has there or is there any desire to base a character on Oot?

  85. Telrunia
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:27 AM | Permalink

    The wait between NotW and tWMF was approx. 4 years. Do you think we have to wait just as long for book 3?

    • missalena
      Posted November 29, 2011 at 9:06 PM | Permalink

      Let’s not get started on that. The official release date for Book three is actually March of 2110. (Pat said at an official reading & signing that it would be 99 years)

      Be glad if it’s sooner. :)

  86. Shan
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:28 AM | Permalink

    What question do you really hope to be asked that hasn’t been asked yet?

  87. General Grind
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:29 AM | Permalink

    Do you like Darren Aronofsky’s movies?

  88. brischitt
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:30 AM | Permalink

    You’ve already been part of a Live Action Role Play or you want to try it one day?

  89. Crim88
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:31 AM | Permalink

    You’re a kid who grows up in a family of carnies when one day on the road while stopped at a rest area (you’re taking a whiz in the bathroom), a group of lean mean motor-scooters show up out of the no where and kill your mom and pop. When you get back to your trailer you see these tough lookin’ sonovaguns on choppers in studded leather all sittin’ on their bikes lookin’ tough talking about what they just did. Suddenly one of them sees you, hops off all graceful like, and starts struttin’ towards you with a bat in hand. He says some mean sarcastic shit about how his boys had beef with your parents, when one of the bigger dudes on one of the bikes yells at him “yo man, that’s not necessary. just hurry up and do it.” to which the scary man with the bat replies “nah man !@#$ you”. The big dude didn’t like that so he pulls out a gun and shoots the dude with the bat in the shoulder, then says some hard shit about loyalty and how he could kill him any time he wanted, so he should “stfu”. A moment later you hear sirens coming down the road to where you are, “oh !@#$, lets ride boys the cops are here.” the bigger dude commands, then they all ride off down the road in the opposite direction. The cops follow and begin chase, paying no attention to you for some reason. Anyway, in your journey from this point onward to acquire all knowledge and skills to get revenge on these cocksuckers for killing your parents and ruining your life, do you A. sucumb to your hate and become that which ruined you in your quest for sweet vengeance? Or do you B. try to reclaim the joy and happiness that you once had, and decide not to seek out the punks any longer? Cuz maybe shit’s complicated, and it wouldn’t be worth it.

  90. RoyceShatzel
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:31 AM | Permalink

    What is your least favorite prime number?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:40 PM | Permalink

      Seven. Pretty boy. Everybody’s favorite. Fucking teacher’s pet.

      Man. Fuck seven.

      • missalena
        Posted November 29, 2011 at 9:07 PM | Permalink

        Is that a quote from something or just Pat’s awesome brain?

  91. spoonyspork
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:32 AM | Permalink

    If you watch Doctor Who, which Doctor (from the beginning back in the 60’s til now) is your favorite?

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:44 PM | Permalink

      The one with the scarf. He was my favorite when I was a kid.

      Or maybe the one they used to start off the modern Doctor Who. He was only there for a season, but I loved him….

      • Neil
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:08 PM | Permalink

        Tom Baker – the one with the scarf. So much easier to relate to than his predecessors.

        • spoonyspork
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:42 PM | Permalink

          Ah yes, that one has a special place in my heart. I was a bit too young to *really* remember anything about even the reruns other than that scarf, but my mom says I was utterly fascinated by the whole show.

          I’m really digging the current Doctor. Couldn’t stand him for the first few episodes but he slowly grew on me… then he dressed like Tom Baker and that was it. Favorite Doctor. :3

      • JoeLlama
        Posted November 22, 2011 at 4:54 PM | Permalink

        Christopher Eccleston was the first modern one, and he was amazing. Definitely my favorite, but I love the hell out of David Tennant, too.

  92. Marcus Cox
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:35 AM | Permalink

    Last night on Neil Gaiman was on The Simpsons and there was a moment when Homer says “British Fonze is right!” This reminded me of this blog post where you call him the Fonze of modern day fantasy: https://blog.patrickrothfuss.com/2009/02/my-trip-to-la-part-one/ (about a quarter of the way down). Have you ever wanted to go up to Neil and ask him to give his best Fonze “Ayyye”? I know since I read this I’ve wanted to hear it.

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:44 PM | Permalink

      Wow. That’s really funny. I feel all prophetic.

  93. Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:38 AM | Permalink

    Which is better, toast or existentialism?

    • lucodyne
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 6:27 PM | Permalink

      Toast always wins. No contest.

      • brrbear
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:24 PM | Permalink

        when you focus on what is real and what is not real, you realize that all you percieve may just be your imagination. then you come to the inevitable conclusion: there is no toast

        • gordug
          Posted November 23, 2011 at 8:02 AM | Permalink

          The toast that you create with your mind is the best toast of all, and the toast you get in the hand never lives up to it.

  94. Aiwendil
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

    In which imaginary (who says they’re actually imaginary..?) world you would live in, given a chance?

    Greetings from Finland, where we know The Name of the Wind as ‘Tuulen nimi’ (The Wise Man’s Fear hasn’t been translated yet).

    • Posted November 21, 2011 at 1:46 PM | Permalink

      Of all the imaginary places out there… I’d pick Finland.

      • Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:02 PM | Permalink

        I kid. I kid.

        I’d pick Sweden.

        • claytonlegare
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 2:18 PM | Permalink

          This made me unleash a bely roll of laughter….awesome!

          If only this could have a facial emotion attached of when you typed that.

        • Robothell
          Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:54 PM | Permalink

          Ah, that explains why you never come here.

        • Aiwendil
          Posted November 22, 2011 at 3:02 PM | Permalink

          Wise move, good sir. I wish this darkness was imaginary, too..

        • Posted November 29, 2011 at 10:43 PM | Permalink

          Ah,

          I was laughing about how ‘I kid. I kid’ would be translated back into Finnish (presuming that a kid isn’t a joke over there) and so I put it into google translate and it came out as:

          -Olen lapsena olin lapsi.

          Which when translated back to English is:

          -I am a child. I was a kid.

          But from Aiwendil’s response it looks like he moved past that dilemna quite easily and/or is fluent in English.

      • Bill
        Posted November 21, 2011 at 5:50 PM | Permalink

        As an aside, I find it hilarious that in the audiobook of Wise Man’s Fear, the Adem speak with a Finnish accent…

      • Posted November 23, 2011 at 6:48 AM | Permalink

        I teach ESL here in Taiwan, and my young students always say, “I’m Finnish” when they complete a task…I’d love to see what all the hype was about.

  95. angry_buddha
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

    Auri seems too intensely human to be made up. Who did you base the character on?

  96. JoseyWales
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:41 AM | Permalink

    Do you find brown nosing as offensive as I do, or is it an ego boost?

  97. hellhound
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:42 AM | Permalink

    Once the third books out and the king killer chronicles is done and dusted and you’ve had your well deserved break. (I’m assuming you’ll continue writing of course since your pretty damn good at it.)

    Will you continue with the world you have set out in the king killer chronicles or do you have something else in mind?

  98. TheKeeper
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:44 AM | Permalink

    What is the airspeed velocity of an unladen swallow?

    • jquijano
      Posted November 21, 2011 at 11:57 AM | Permalink

      An African or European swallow?

  99. fatcatfan
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:46 AM | Permalink

    Which is your favorite Muppet?

  100. Ariel_MT_L
    Posted November 21, 2011 at 7:48 AM | Permalink

    Your books landed on the other side of planet Earth: Reunion Island (next to Madagascar). Would you like to see a picture of them next to one of the World’ s most active volcanoes?

    [I loved the french books’ cover illustrations, but I stuck to the English version]

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