For when we talk about the spreading power and influence of globalization, aren't we really referring to the spreading economic and military might of the US?
When old people speak it is not because of the sweetness of words in our mouths; it is because we see something which you do not see.
Generally I finish a first draft in 2-6 months, then I set it aside for a while so that when I come back to it I can read it with fresh eyes and figure out how to improve it.