Chekhov, Roblox, and Preston Sturges — Sept 7 Weekly Roundup
What I read, watched, and listened to this week.
Each week, I compile what I’ve been reading, watching, and listening to. I’d love to know what you discovered this week, so reply to this email with your recommendations.
Reading
The Remains of the Day — Kazuo Ishiguro
I’m quite fond of the movie (which I also have on VHS, like an extremely cool person), so I figured it was time to read the book. I’m pleasantly surprised by the structural differences, and pleased that so much of the dialog in the film is straight from the book (though I was briefly confused by the Lewis/Farraday difference from the film).
The Cherry Orchard & The Three Sisters — Anton Chekhov
George Saunders’ A Swim in a Pond in the Rain gave me an appreciation for Chekhov that I’d been wanting to explore more. So when I was given a beautiful bound volume of two Chekhov plays I was excited to dive in. I found keeping track of all the names surprisingly difficult, but they were immensely enjoyable reads.
Roblox is Already the Biggest Game In The World. Why Can't It Make a Profit (And How Can It)? (Matthew Ball)
I had no idea Roblox was so profoundly, and increasingly, unprofitable: “Obviously, Roblox has a costs problem. Over the last twelve months it has averaged $138 in costs for every $100 in revenue.”
Generative AI backlash hits annual writing event, prompting resignations (Ars Technica)
This is such a fascinating piece about the nature of community, accessibility, and intellectual property. No clear or simple answers, just a lot of questions.
Two ways to save a video game industry on fire (Polygon)
The video game industry is in trouble, with budgets spiralling out of control and cost-cutting decimating the workforce. Polygon Editor-in-Chief Chris Plante offers his ideas on potential paths forward.
Listening
Under the Radar Episode 300
Marco Arment’s had a rocky launch for his major update to Overcast. It’s my most-used app, and I’ve certainly had my frustrations with the update, so I was interested to hear how the feedback’s been affecting him and where the app’s going next.
Watching
Where do Skyrim’s Rivers Come From?
I love this kind of video. An intensely detailed and painstaking look into something no one else would ever care this much about. See also: Jenny Nicholson.
Have an article, book, podcast, YouTube, or movie that you think I should check out? Reply and tell me about it!