The Creative Shed

Three Key Themes in Summer of The Seventeenth Doll by Ray Lawler

Summer of the Seventeenth doll is an iconic Australian play, with some deep themes. Here are three of the key ones. 1. Nostalgia and the Passage of Time: The play is set in the 1950s and centers around a group of characters who reunite annually for the summer season. The doll in the title represents… [Continue Reading]
A Short Analysis of Philip Larkin’s Aubade

Philip Larkin’s poem “Aubade” is a poignant exploration of the fear and existential dread that can accompany the contemplation of death and the awareness of one’s own mortality. The poem takes the form of a morning song, traditionally associated with celebration and hope, but Larkin subverts this expectation by delving into the darker aspects of… [Continue Reading]
Five 1970s Science Fiction Books You May Not Know

We’re addicted to old sci-fi, and thought we’d start trawling round for some lesser known reads from the golden age in this genre. Here’s five worth a look at from the 1970s: “Roadside Picnic” by Arkady and Boris Strugatsky (1972) – This Soviet-era science fiction novel explores the aftermath of an alien visitation known as… [Continue Reading]
The Man in the Maze by Robert Silverberg: Synopsis

The Man in the Maze is set in a future where humanity has expanded its reach to other planets in the galaxy. Richard Muller, a brilliant scientist and former diplomat, has become a recluse on the planet Lemnos, which is known for its complex and impenetrable maze created by an advanced alien race called the… [Continue Reading]

Gamification of work: a pointed critique

As you're probably aware, there's been a lot of interest over the past couple of years in 'gamification' - the application of … [Read More...]

Relay for Life in Second Life 2014

The Relay for Life event in Second Life has always been a highlight for me and it looks like this year's is no … [Read More...]

To Maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity

1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow … [Read More...]

The Creative Shed

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Three Key Themes in Summer of The Seventeenth Doll by Ray Lawler

A Short Analysis of Philip Larkin’s Aubade

Five 1970s Science Fiction Books You May Not Know

The Man in the Maze by Robert Silverberg: Synopsis

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A Short Analysis of Philip Larkin’s Aubade

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Apple Adapter Manufacturer Concerned At Apple Direction

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