banks β Iain (Menzies). 1954β2013, Scottish novelist and science fiction writer. His novels include The Wasp Factory (1984), The Crow Road (1992), and The Steep Approach to Garbadale (2007); science-fiction (under the name Iain M. Banks) includes Look to Windward (2000)
hooks β a curved or angular piece of metal or other hard substance for catching, pulling, holding, or suspending something.
splits β to divide or separate from end to end or into layers: to split a log in two.
terms β a word or group of words designating something, especially in a particular field, as atom in physics, quietism in theology, adze in carpentry, or district leader in politics.
trimmings β anything used or serving to decorate or complete: the trimmings of a Christmas tree.
advantages β A condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position.
controls β a device or mechanism for operating or regulating a car, aircraft, etc
authorities β the power to determine, adjudicate, or otherwise settle issues or disputes; jurisdiction; the right to control, command, or determine.
powers β ability to do or act; capability of doing or accomplishing something.
creeps β an act or instance of creeping: It seems as if time has slowed to a creep.
shapes β Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers, Europe.
worms β Zoology. any of numerous long, slender, soft-bodied, legless, bilaterally symmetrical invertebrates, including the flatworms, roundworms, acanthocephalans, nemerteans, gordiaceans, and annelids.
hones β a whetstone of fine, compact texture for sharpening razors and other cutting tools.
whets β to sharpen (a knife, tool, etc.) by grinding or friction.