This is such an interesting question. I know that I once (before the paying days) tried on another identity, and was completely unable to post as other than who I was. I couldn't say things that weren't me or even that were me, but uncensored by my unfortunately strong superego.
BEcause this medium relies on the written word and eliminates the many other cues by which we evaluate people, it is peculiarly revealing, but in a limited way. I see it as real, but as very narrow. MOst of the people are initially shadows, but after five years, many have taken on a substance for me that is more solid than many of my 3D acquaintances. However, what I realize is that when people disappear from here, even those who have been regulars, they don't leave a hole in my life. Not really.
BUt then, neither would the people I sit with at swim meets...
So do we really "care" (beyond saying- oh how sad in a sort of vague way) about people until they fill some space in our own lives, maybe even some need? Isn't grief just a reflection of our own loss-- which makes it ultimately selfish-
Not that I think selfish is bad. It's one of the Rand books I sort of agreed with (Virtue of Selfishness)
Babbling because I really need to go cook- in fact- if I don't go, I'll have no bolognese sauce for the dinner tonight and there will be 8 people wondering why they were invited. |
