Ignore the damn title; it’s interesting anyway.
One of the most amazing things about Bruce Sterling is how he can be such a great author and insightful speaker and sound like such a smarmy jackass. I don’t think it’s really a reflection of his personality; I think it’s just his voice. Maybe it’s even just me. But his voice surely does grate on my nerves.
Here’s a totally different talk by him to demonstrate what I mean about his voice:
Bruce Sterling from Innovationsforum on Vimeo.
(Bruce, if you read this, please don’t take offense! I love all of your books, and you are brilliant. My issue is my issue and is totally superficial. And I’m pretty sure in a personal conversation awe would overcome any ookie voice-based feelings.)