This is a comment on series. Not quite serial works, because that is still a single work. No in this, I mean a series, where each instance can stand more-or-less alone.

Of course each episode can't be the same exact thing. It must vary, but only in key points. Some parts of the series overall are enticing because they are stable points of reference.

The case inspiring this are the crime procedurals that somehow think we are interested in the main character's lives. I watch crime procedurals to geek out over the tech they use in solving cases.

Part of that is just because I appreciate tech. Part of it is because I like seeing neat closures to crimes (see previous Elsewhere entry.) And, no, part of it is NOT to prepare me for a life of crime. Maybe write about it, but not live it, please.

In business, we have a term: core compentency. You venture from it at great risk, after serious consideration, and in hopes of great reward. You define what you do, you excel at it, and you grow your market from there.

Of course, we also have the phrase, 'turn the battleship.' That's when you have to make a complete turnaround because your current path ends in ruin. Again, hopes of great reward - after all, what greater reward is there than remaining solvent?

That brings up the other instance of fiction on my mind lately. "Watchmen." It will be an interesting film. For good or for ill, it will change the tone of our current spate of superhero films.

(to be continued.)