Essays & Opinion

UK Cut Loose

I used to be a leftie. The past tense is important; it does not denote a change to my values or beliefs, but...

Confessions to a Cruel Internet

Dear friend, I like to start my notes to you as if we're already in the middle of a conversation. That was a...

More Crazy Cliches of Space Opera

Man's imagination knows no bounds. This has been demonstrated by his inventiveness since time began. First man discovered space, most particularly the...

The Movie Demagination Index

Sex in the City 2. Predators. Iron Man 2. Jackass 3D. Saw VII 3D. The Twilight Saga: Whatever. ...

The Digital Crossfire

There was a time when communications were mostly harmless. Sure, people might be badgered by nuisance calls, but that was the limit. ...

Placating Placards

Like many distant observers of US politics, I was heartened by the Stewart-Colbert Rally for Sanity and/or Fear. These two presenters of topical...

Progress Without End

In the year 4010, U2 lead singer Bono is hosting a dinner party for his rich, beautiful and powerful friends. Their meal finished,...

10 Reasons to Give Qatar the 2022 World Cup

I am a sourpuss contrarian. Show me an argument, and I will show you the opposite argument. Hence, after re-reading my arguments...

10 Reasons not to Give Qatar the 2022 World Cup

There cannot be anyone living in Qatar who is unaware of its bid to host the 2022 World Cup. The tiny Arab state...

Favourite Film Instant In-Jokes

Hollywood moviemakers must be full of mirth. As well as having a job that many people envy, and laughing all the way to...

Losing a General Election (and hoping nobody notices)

In the immediate aftermath of the 2010 UK General Election, there was a lot of talk about whether any party won and which party...

Music of the Marionettes

Five. Four. Three. Two. One. It seems hard to believe that Gerry Anderson, pioneer of Supermarionation and producer of classic kids' television like Thunderbirds and Captain Scarlet might have...

About Halfthoughts

This website showcases content created by Eric Priezkalns, who also uses the pen name Ray Blank when writing science fiction. It includes stories, essays, poems, short films and audio recordings.