Matthew Sylvester
Writing
The Brotherhood of Tweed
There is a great divide that splits British society and it is one that makes me particularly sad. There are those that appreciate the work, the years of skill, the hours of dedication and the time spent out in the wilds of Scotland breeding, feeding, chasing after and saving the sheep needed to make … Continue reading
Submission, Rejection, Redemption
Recently, Abaddon Publishers had an open submissions window. The last one that I entered was about two years ago, and I put forward a sci-fi, futuristic steampunk Hornblower story. The idea and the world were sound, the character was suitably flawed, and the ship’s chaplain was a right bastard. In a good way. Unfortunately they … Continue reading
Rapier and dagger – getting to the point, and why a gentleman should never be without one
Many authors write about sword fights and duels, but often either fail to mention the swords being used, or get the weapons wrong. Often they’ll give a weapon to someone who really shouldn’t be using that sort of weapon, or have it used in the wrong way. This also applies to role-players who take their … Continue reading
Why armour doesn’t work in films and series such as Vikings
No matter now good looking the armour, no matter how historically accurate it is, or isn’t, armour just doesn’t work. There are many examples of armour parting like paper as a sword or axe cuts across the wearer’s abdomen or back in a spray of blood and gore. For years this used to vex me … Continue reading
Warriors: Past to Present – A writer’s reference, and a writing challenge – Part 4 – Trained Band Caliverman, Tilbury 1588
The amazing photographer, Thom Atkinson has recently published what he calls ‘Soldiers Inventories’ on his website. These photos are clearly a work of art and show a love for the subject that is sublime. Each piece is laid out as if it were part of a puzzle and every time I look at them, I spot something different, … Continue reading
Matthew Sylvester 