Okay, this is my take on the "meandering posts" situation.
Going off topic is A-OK by me. In fact, it's the way a list survives, and
how one develops a community. I'm not saying that we should start a modest
mouse fraternity or something, but at least understand in some way who
we're talking to. I also think that if you're using this list to procure a
social life, find another list! This one in comparison to many, moves
slower than the chances of DGC reissuing the first Sonic Youth EP. It's
pretty neat to meet people through things like mailing lists, but don't
make it your rasion d'etre [reason to be].
Secondly, i happen to frequent several mailing lists [Pavement | GBV | Bis
| Versus to name a few]. I have seen both sides of the off topic spectrum.
The GBV mailing list [known as postal blowfish] has hardly seen a on-topic
day in its recent history. But we manage to make fine conversation, and
share ideas and thoughts about music and related subjects. Out of all the
lists im on, i've never met a nicer bunch of people who enjoy GBV but all
forms of music.
Then on the other side, there is the bis mailing list. it's never on-topic,
but it irks me so. people on that list have no sense of protocol and/or
courtesy. They quote entire digests to write "me too" on the end, send many
messages in foreign languages [ive not a problem with foreign lang, but not
everyone speaks japanese y'know? thats kinda rude.], send multiple messages
of "unsubscribe", write very nasty things about others etc etc. the
violations could go on forever.
So what am i saying here? I have no idea, as I look back at what i just
wrote. I guess what Im trying to tell you is that if someone posts
something nonMM, live with it. Dont condemn and criticize, because
somewhere out there, a list member might be very interested. they could
send the poster a private email and from there, a band could be formed.
isnt that what this internet is about? communication? anyhow, i've found
that its the nontopic posts that are the most interesting and raise
interesting questions about concepts - they manage to go beyond the "whats
your favorite song?" spiel that brings down so many lists and thats what
happens on this list.
okay, thats enough. i hope i make some sense in there somewhere, and if
not, you can send me mail.
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you never know when your pet will go...maria t sciarrino
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