Some of you probably realise that I’m a bit of a steampunk and have been even since before I realised steampunk was what I was a fan of. Think I called it historical sci-fi back then. Even as a little child I was a fan of Jules Verne and H. G. Wells‘ Time Machine – now known as the epithome of steampunk.

Interestingly enough, though, is that neither of those actually are steampunk. They’re both just turn-of-the-century science fiction. It was only later, in the 1970’s I believe, that they were made steampunk with movie interpretations of their works. Something about intentionally being made to look as if they were believe to be invisioned by the original authors. Brilliant! The birth of steampunk.

It was around that time, as well, that somebody came up with the term steampunk and created a whole literary movement around it. Unfortunately I have no idea who this was, but it’s all described well and properly in Steampunk Magazine issue no. 5. If you’re even a bit of a steampunk you should totally buy this magazine. It costs about 5 euro for us europeans because it has to be shipped from the US, but it’s well worth it. Amazing stuff in there.

Actually, it’s even better than amazing, one of the stories cites me (pseudonym Dr. Richard von Tropp) from issue three as an inspiration for their writing. Felt I should mention that.

Anyhow, a few days ago I received by steamboat (more likely by an evil aeroplane) two new fashionable items to add to my somewhat steampunkish attire. A magnificent silver pocket watch, which I have to have a clockmaker have a look at since it’s acting a bit funny and I feel reluctant to sending it back to the US and waiting for it once more, and a lovely silver plated cane. Both were purchased from The Gentleman’s Emporium – suggest you give them a look if you want to see some pretty clothes and stuff.

Edit: apparently the watch works a lot better when wound the proper way

Tags: art, H. G. Wells, intrigues, Jules Verne, Literature, Steampunk, Steampunk Magazine