This is the fourth post in a sequence that demonstrates a complete naturalist study, specifically a study of query hugging (sort of), as described in The Nuts and Bolts of Naturalism. For context on this sequence, see the intro post.

“Mud and Despair” is not officially one of the phases of naturalism. Unofficially, though, it's the phase that often happens somewhere between “Getting Your Eyes On” and “Collection”.

When I look back at my notes from this part of my study (roughly mid September), I am somewhat bewildered. From my current perspective, it seems as though things were exactly on track. I was making excellent progress, focusing ever more closely on the precise experiences that can lead to mastery of the skills that underlie "hug the query". My study was really taking off.

And yet, I just felt so lost. I wasn't convinced I was studying [...]

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First published:

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Narrated by TYPE III AUDIO.