BJ Bell
Writer, Coder, & Analyst
I write fiction as well as essays on writing, Buddhist practice, and technology. Currently working on The Kalachakra IP, a cyberpunk novel series exploring the challenges of modern society and the role of community and spirituality.
I'm also a Python coder and data analyst, with a background in contact centers.
Recent Writing
The AI Witch Hunt Starts With Us
Writers call AI-generated fiction both a threat and “slop.” That contradiction says more about our fear than about the technology, and it’s the fear that publishers are turning into policy.
blogGiving a Fuck Every Single Day Is Not Easy: On Equanimity
Perhaps we need to look closer when we struggle to give a fuck. When examining the causality chain that drives us towards reactive behavior, does a link in that chain point towards the equanimity we need to break free of it?
essayMore Punk in Cyberpunk
Cyberpunk borrowed punk's leather jacket and left its politics behind. A case for putting the punk—advocacy, community, ardency—into the genre.
blogThe CTF Event Toggle on kalachakra.world
kalachakra.world is a lore site that turns into a capture-the-flag event during promotions, then turns back. Here's how the toggle actually works.
blogMindful Reading
It can be much easier to be critical of writing because the flaws are more obvious, but how can I be more mindful of what is working?
blogOptimism as Agency
Regarding rewiring your mind and actions with the choice of optimism.
Interests
Buddhist Practice
Vipassana meditation, the three marks of existence, and how contemplative practice informs creative work and daily life.
Technology & Ethics
Surveillance, autonomy, AI ethics, and the invisible systems that shape our choices before we know we're choosing.
Coding
Python, FastAPI, systems thinking, and building tools that make creative work easier and more intentional.