I keep debating about whether to change the focus of this weblog. I’ve tried to make it about words and politics and pop culture, because those things interest me and I can write reasonably intelligently about them.
I don’t have much personal stuff, or stuff about my day, on this page. I don’t know if it’s all that interesting, and I find the other stuff more compelling and easier to write about. And then I go to other people’s weblogs, and they get 25 comments on a post about problems with their catbox or something.
I’m sure comment numbers don’t really mean anything (Wil Wheaton gets 94 comments when he blows his nose), but I keep wondering if the stuff I go on about is interesting or entertaining to anyone. And I’ll admit, despite myself I get a little jealous when I see high comment numbers on other people’s pages.
People always say, oh, I do this for myself. I don’t care if anyone reads it. But are those of us who say those things just lying to ourselves? How much are we writing to please ourselves, and how much are we writing to please an audience – one we don’t know much about? This blogging thing is strange. It’s like performing in a play through a virtual reality suit.
Just a mini motivational crisis. It’ll pass.
If it means anything to you, I read your blog everyday.
The grass is always greener. My mom’s sad dog post got lots of comments, but I also have her posting that my mohawk was a sign of mental illness. I will happily trade.
Adam, you are whining again, knock it off.
Tigger.
I’m on strike. I refuse to make another post on my blog until I get at least 10 comments on an entry.
me too – everyday reader – don’t wanna loose you cuz i’m learning stuff! thanks!
well, obviously publishing on-line, and having comments means you see this as more than just for yourself; and of course you are answering your own question when you talk about the folks who get tons of comments about their catbox (ewww!) – But I think its easy to post a so-called witty remark about a catbox than it is to engage in a dialogue about heftier topics, like what does “patriotism” mean, etc. You’ll never know how you affect others by your writing, as I’ve found that it’s tough to write something of substance in a comment box – you haven’t really prepared for it like the writer of the original post. Also, I DO think you write about persoanl stuff – what MATTERS to you is personal; whether you bought that shirt you’re wearing at the Gap or Banana Republic isn’t “personal” – how you feel about their labor relations is; at least to me that tells me a lot more about the writer.
Well, franikly, I used to do my shopping at Banana Republic twenty (!) years ago, and in those days they were great. Clothes you actually *could* wear on an expedition to someplace interesting. Now it’s all trendy fashion crap, no different than in any other store on the mall. But don’t get me started …
Oh, wait. You did.
I do know what you mean. FWIW, I read a lot more than I comment (which is kind of impolite, I suppose). Have you considered poring desperately over your referrer logs to see who’s coming to visit and what your hit count is? That’s a great way to salve the wounded ego of guys like
meyou.I visit your site every day, if that’s worth anything. You’re even on my blogroll. Your clear and concise writing brings your thoughts and views forward quickly, which makes your posts easy to read. I look forward to your newsletters and will continue returning to the site, even if you are having litter box problems.
Rob’s commnents – ditto. (oh wait, that means something else now)
Dave – I don’t obsess over the referrer logs – but now, I obsess over the subscription list of the newsletter. Six of one, half dozen of another.
bj is right on. As an example, take a look at Davezilla’s comments. (http://www.davezilla.com) His sight is funny but light on any real substance and the comments left by readers are so frickin inane. I would rather not have anyone comment at all then to have 94 stupid comments that aren’t going to enlighten me or anyone else.
Another reason might be because you actually inspired someone and they are now busy thinking about what you said and forming their own opinions.