I think that one of the reasons that I am a writer is that it gives me a reason to read up on anything and everything, and conversely, a tangible use for any and possibly every piece of knowledge that I come across. Thus far, in the name of fic, I have managed to read up on: the climate and geography of Iran, ancient Persian history, qanats, apple trees, orange trees, and Arabic food. Oh, and since Joann's doing a project, I'm also reading up on Chinese folk tales. (Everyone keeps dying in them. And then they get turned into bamboo.) I also did some reading on the Mayans, but I haven't found an outlet for that area of research yet.
I suppose I should actually get back to work writing. I've tentatively identified the source of inspiration for Sailand as Persia, possibly Arabia, contrasted with the relatively European Astaria (from the style of their weaponry and the church that Cooro grew up in). Still, I'd like to look into clothing styles from the Middle East. Everything is just so fascinating ... besides, if I ever get back to Arslan fic, I can use all of the Persia stuff.
I suppose I should actually get back to work writing. I've tentatively identified the source of inspiration for Sailand as Persia, possibly Arabia, contrasted with the relatively European Astaria (from the style of their weaponry and the church that Cooro grew up in). Still, I'd like to look into clothing styles from the Middle East. Everything is just so fascinating ... besides, if I ever get back to Arslan fic, I can use all of the Persia stuff.
