Repose and Reprise
A plan for March 2026
‘Someone call for advice?’
‘Aunt Athena!’
‘At your service.’
‘We’re so glad you’re here. We’ve had a problem with our … inspiré.’
‘The double-tap chap who writes two Substacks … and fragments of a third?’
‘That’s right. One of his newsletters is going gangbusters. That’s The Tactical Notebook.’
‘Where Clio works?
‘That’s right. But the other flows like honey in December.’
‘And you think it’s your fault?’
‘I’m afraid so.’
‘Well, Kiddo, let me tell you a little about inspiration. The likes of you and your sister provide the spark, but it’s the mortal who has to finish the job.’
‘Well … that explains the two hundred and seventy-four drafts on his posts page.’
‘Indeed … So, Clio, tell me how long your guy has been in the history biz.’
‘Starting from his first published article … close to forty-five years.’
‘Now, Calliope, would you tell me how long he’s been writing the sorts of things that you inspire?’
‘Let’s see. He started in May of 2023. That’s … less than three years.’
‘So, you’re dealing with a tyro, a newbie, a pup.’
‘I suppose so.’
‘You’ve got a guy who can write the stuff that Ares likes to read in no time at all. But when it comes to other things, he goes through many drafts. Nicht wahr?’
‘Eigentlich, Tanta Athena, Eigentlich.’
‘So, here’s what I think you should do. Ask him to take a break from writing new material for Extra Muros, to pause billing, and use the time to clear out his in basket. While he does that, I want you to do for Extra Muros what Clio does for The Tactical Notebook.
‘Make guides to pieces posted in days of yore?’
‘Exactly.’
‘But I don’t have a time machine.’
‘You do now.’
‘It’s gorgeous. Thank you so much.’
‘Thank your Uncle Heph. It’s his handiwork.’
‘Why am I not surprised? I shall have to write a thank-you ode.’
‘It’s glowing!’
‘You know what that means.’
‘It’s time for my first mission?’
‘That right.’
‘And where am I going?’
‘The City of Lights.’
‘