Field Research Q&A.
What exactly is Field Research?
An email-based publication featuring razor-sharp satire, inventive dark comedy, and the odd piece of short, edgy fiction.
Oh yeah? Show me what you got.
Not bad. But tell me this: WTF is an Amran Gowani?
Me! I’m a real person — with real feelings!
Also, I’m a lifelong writer at heart who spent the first half of my existence doing white-collar, corporate nonsense instead (e.g., organic chemist, financial analyst, business journalist).
Now I’m a full-time stay-at-home dad writing a contemporary fiction novel and these dark, deranged missives.
This spicy launch post includes a detailed, unflattering autobiography:
This first anniversary post recaps my “writing journey” thus far and acknowledges everyone who’s supported me:
And this deeply personal guest essay for Neal Bascomb’s Work/Craft/Life discusses why fatherhood is so important to me (note: paywalled):
Fine, you seem like an interesting guy. What’re you selling?
For free:
One piece of dark humor, sharp satire, or edgy fiction, delivered most Fridays at 9:30 a.m. Chicago time.
For $5 per month, or $48 per year if paid up front:
Those same pieces, plus:
Periodic paywalled stories — probably around eight to twelve per year — which will include topical, news-driven satire, NSFW dark comedy, and deranged fiction unsuitable for classy publications
Full access to my entire archive of over seventy stories
Exclusive access to paid subscriber threads, chats, and mailbags
Membership in a vibrant community of brilliant, sophisticated smartasses
Other fancy benefits as I dream them up
That’s nice, but I thought everything on the internet was free. Why should I pay for this?
Unfortunately we’ve all been conditioned to think internet “content” should be “free.” But as an independent, unaffiliated rando I don’t — nor will I ever — sell ads or mine, repackage, and pawn your personal data.
I just write.
To ensure my stories stay RZA-razor sharp, and merit your precious time and attention, I spend twenty-plus hours each week researching, drafting, crafting, and revising.
Your paid subscription values my effort (#capitalism) and allows me (and you) to invest in my future writing endeavors.
Also:
Also: The Federal Reserve set your money on fire, so you might as well spend it before it’s gone.
Thanks, Biden.
The President doesn’t control—
I guess those are fair points. But, is your writing any good?
I think so!
But, more objectively, I’m humbled to come recommended by sixteen other writers, including world-class humorists and satirists Michael Estrin, Dennard Dayle, Bev Potter, and Eli Grober and superb fiction writers Meg Oolders and Kris Mole.
Plus, check out this straight 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥:
“The premise — a weird person attracts other weird people then writes about their encounters — is clear. The logic ends there. Ultimately, Field Research is another vapid, lifeless blog nobody asked for.” — The New Yorker
“Woke. Virtue-signaling. Performative. Even free speech has its limits.” — Breitbart News
“This dude’s the funniest guy you’ve never heard of.” — Guy you’ve never heard of
“Mr. Gowani spins an amusing yarn, but his lack of writing talent is a distraction, rearing its ugly head far too often.” — The Economist
“Oh my God it’s so cringe — but in a good way!” — Amran’s son’s preschool teacher
“Rubbish.” — Financial Times
“Namby pamby websites like this are why old media will never die.” — Logan Roy, Founder and CEO, Waystar Royco
Okay… What do I do now?
If you want to test drive Field Research and see if it’s your jam, start with a free subscription by clicking the handsome black button below. You can always upgrade later once you’re addicted.
If you already love what you see, and have the financial means to support me, I’d be thrilled if you took out a paid subscription.
Important note: If you’re experiencing financial hardship, or are a current high school or undergraduate student, email me at agowani@substack.com and I’ll gladly hook you up with a free gift subscription.
Nice. You’re not that pushy — I like that. Anything else I should know?
You’re in for tons of laughs.
Wecome to the show.
People
