Hasty Briefsbeta

Do blogs need to be so lonely?

15 days ago
  • #blogging
  • #web-history
  • #collaboration
  • The author questions why blogging can feel lonely despite the web's participatory nature.
  • Proposes the idea of a group blog or blog co-op where friends post together without strict coordination.
  • References Leon Paternoster's thoughts on collective blogging and the techno-individualistic mindset of modern blogging.
  • Highlights historical examples like Fray.com and Afterdinner, which encouraged collaborative storytelling.
  • Discusses the evolution of web participation through guestbooks, comments, forums, and trackbacks.
  • Notes the decline of comments due to spam and flame wars, but sees a potential resurgence.
  • Mentions modern examples of group blogs like The Midnight Pub and journalist collectives.
  • Reflects on the appeal of collaborative blogging for creating communal content.
  • Addresses challenges like the lack of audience validation and the effort required for group blogs.
  • Advocates for the value of comments in fostering reader communication and discovering new bloggers.