Encouraging News

 I want to share a bunch of encouraging news with you. 

Since August 2019, I have been building my readership community on Academia.edu, a site for researchers. View https://independent.academia.edu/BaizermanMichael 

I uploaded eight chapters from my first book, "Dawn and Sunset: A Tale of the Earliest Cities in the Near East." I started transferring the units from my second boon, "The Enchanting Encounter with the East." It was a slow start. By the end of my first year, I had about 1K views. 

At this stage, Academia.edu ushered in a new rubric, Discussion. After sending a paper to publication, an author can discuss his report. It usually takes three weeks, with an option for an extension. You write an invitation, and the site sends it to around 1 K people in addition to your fans. I resolved to put my articles to the test. Suddenly, many people recognized my name and became familiar with my studies. One can encounter researchers, students, and graduates of many universities worldwide. Some readers wrote notes, and I appreciate their efforts, even if I don't agree with some of them, because I received feedback. I forwarded my last paper from my second book for Discussion a short time ago.  View https://www.academia.edu/96081693/William_of_Rubruck

I have already received over 10 K views; my next aim will be 15 K, though it might take several years. Meanwhile, I have finished the draft of Chapter 3: Later War Galleys, in which I will discuss

a.    The Monster galley: Vettor Fausto’s quinquereme

b.    Rowing a scaloccio

c.    “Galley slaves”

d.    Gallea alla ponentina

e.    Dimensions

f.     Functions

g.    Cost

h.    Life span

i.     Sailing off-season

j.     Coastal piloting and speed

k.    Watering the crews  

Rations    

I have  begun to write a new chapter, The Intricacies of  Naval Warfare. I plan to describe naval shipyards and supply bases and check the idea of standing fleets. 

I sent Chapter I to a maritime journal and received an encouraging negative response. The editor acknowledges that I have produced a fascinating and informative piece. Then, he explains why he can't approve it for publication: the article lacks the academic structure. There needs to be a section of existing literature. The writer does not place himself among other authors or offers an argument. 

When I read it, I understood my place. I don't write scientific prose but a story. I don't care about my contribution to the history of research. I give my readers facts and add my opinion. Many people accept this approach.