A unique privilege fell into my lap recently; a chance to review the latest offering from Tom Landaluce, The Tragic Death of Corporate Man: a hero for capitalism; champion of the working class. Part superhero tale and part commentary on the current ills of the economy, I was dubious not only of the premise, but also of the author’s assertion that publishing a story in its first draft form could be anything other than a complete disaster.
Fortunately, my apprehensions were quelled and I must begrudgingly admit that the text is quite entertaining. Smart even. And it’s not just the story, which is unique and moves along quickly, that I found compelling, but the blog style presentation proved essential and the author’s assertion, mentioned above, proved true. Somehow it all works. Far from being annoyed at the first draft state of the document, I was delighted by the invitation to leave edit suggestions in the comment fields. Not only did I feel a part of the project, but knowing that the author intends to use these suggestions when compiling his second draft makes the effort seem substantial. Additional incentive comes from the author’s promise to acknowledge all participants in the final, printed version of the book. And who doesn’t want to see their name in bestselling novel?
In the business world I believe a tactic like that is called leveraging. Again, it is to the author’s credit that he employs this and similar ploys not only in his writing but in the marketing and presentation of the material. First he delegates the editing responsibilities to the reader, and then he burdens the fans of the book with the bulk of its marketing counting on word of mouth through social media to notify potential consumers. Furthermore the story is presented in blog form which eliminates the high price of printing and opens up the potential for additional no cost advertising, a move that echoes the cost cutting measures that large corporations often implement.
It is true that all of the characters (Business Woman, Junior Executive, The Greed, Professor Inflation, and others) are basic, cookie cutter personas, like cardboard standees or billboard images. But far from being a negative part of this review, I find the choice ingenious as it harkens to the faceless financial entities that the narrative satirizes. On top of this, Tom has solicited false reviews to bolster consumer confidence –something Big Business has done for years in their ad campaigns– and he’s fabricated a set genial quotes as well. Bottom line, if you want to “occupy” something in the coming year, go to the blog site, subscribe, and be a part of economic history.
Butch
December 30, 2011
The Tragic Death of Corporate Man: a hero for capitalism; champion of the working class is set for release Monday, January 2nd. Visit deathofcorporateman.blogspot.com to subscribe.
Butch Madison
