When did you first become aware of the Overcast? I think I had already read a handful of books and still managed not to notice it until it was forcibly brought to my attention on RASFW. Of course, *afterwards*, I saw that it had been mentioned or alluded to in many places. (Anyone care to speculate how long it has been around?) I also passed over my non-comprehension regarding the "box with presumed ears at both ends" until it was explained to me. Is there something else you needed a clue-by-four to recognize? - tky