That's . . . quite an interesting metaphor you got, there. :-)

One of these days I'll have to read Mieville. I've heard lots of good things about him, but I've also heard things that make me ambivalent about reading him. No, I don't remember what they are, not specifically. Had to do with (I think) the general "grunginess" of his writing and/or the story, and/or the "artsiness" of the same, or something like that. Not sure. Anyway, I should give him a look at the very least. And try not to remember your metaphor too vividly while I do so.