Lose weight the slow and incredibly difficult way (nautil.us)

Article summary

The article explores a humorous and scientifically informed approach to losing weight by reducing the Earth's mass, thereby decreasing its gravitational pull. The author, Randall Munroe, calculates the enormous amount of energy required to remove significant portions of the Earth's surface, leading to absurd and destructive consequences. Ultimately, the article concludes that a more efficient way to reduce the Earth's gravitational pull on an object is to go underground, where the layers of rock above would no longer contribute to the object's weight. This thought experiment showcases the author's signature blend of humor and scientific insight.

Main themes

• science and humor
• author promotion and marketing
• publishing industry trends
• social media and online presence
• book tours and publicity
• writing quality and charisma

What commenters say

• The practice of authors going on press tours to promote their work is a long-standing tradition in the publishing industry.
• The rise of social media has changed the way authors are marketed and sold, with a strong online presence now being a significant factor in an author's success.
• Some argue that this emphasis on an author's persona and online presence can lead to a culture where the quality of the writing takes a backseat to the author's charisma and marketing ability.
• Others point out that there are still many examples of successful authors who do not engage in extensive self-promotion, and that the quality of the writing should be the primary factor in determining an author's success.
• The use of media training and repetition of talking points can lead to a sense of monotony and superficiality in author interviews.
• The concept of a 'blog post tour' is seen as an unrealistic or unappealing alternative to a traditional book tour, which can provide authors with opportunities for financial gain and increased visibility.
• The goal of a book tour is not just to sell books, but also to potentially launch an author's career or increase their fame and recognition.
• The relationship between authors, publishers, and the media is complex, with each party having their own interests and motivations that can influence the way books are promoted and sold.