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Below the Line ensemble edition: the gang's all here Below the Line ensemble edition: the gang's all here
(30 days later)
BTL (below the line) is a weekly profile of a particularly delightful, prolific or controversial member of the Guardian comment community. Nominate yourself or someone else.
BTL (below the line) is a weekly profile of a particularly delightful, prolific or controversial member of the Guardian comment community. Nominate yourself or someone else.
LakerFan: 'I also like the Boston Celtics'
LakerFan: 'I also like the Boston Celtics'
Joined: 19th August 2009
Comments: 6542
Abuse reports: 103
Most recent comment: IMO, the film industry has not changed. Since the 1970s, they make films for the primary audience: 12-year-old children. They will continue to do so, because their parents, seeking relief, even solitude, drop the kids off at the cinema.'		Joined: 19th August 2009
Comments: 6542
Abuse reports: 103
Most recent comment: IMO, the film industry has not changed. Since the 1970s, they make films for the primary audience: 12-year-old children. They will continue to do so, because their parents, seeking relief, even solitude, drop the kids off at the cinema.'
What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?
The Guardian is like the proverbial fly in the Vichyssoise, it deserves attention.The Guardian is like the proverbial fly in the Vichyssoise, it deserves attention.
Describe your comment persona in 3 words:Describe your comment persona in 3 words:
Make people think.Make people think.
What's your commenting theme song? What's your commenting theme song?
What a Piece of Work Is Man from the musical Hair.What a Piece of Work Is Man from the musical Hair.
Tell us something about who you are offline:Tell us something about who you are offline:
I spend my offline time in either the Renaissance or the Age of Enlightenment. They might be pubs.I spend my offline time in either the Renaissance or the Age of Enlightenment. They might be pubs.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic: Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
"Facts are sacred.""Facts are sacred."
What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL? What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL?
It's noisy.It's noisy.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean? Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
Um, Laker fan. No more needs be said about that.Um, Laker fan. No more needs be said about that.
Tell us a secret: Tell us a secret:
I also like the Boston Celtics.I also like the Boston Celtics.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
Yes. I'll take the next question, now.Yes. I'll take the next question, now.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
This week it's Noam Chomsky, but as they say, you're only as good as your last performance …This week it's Noam Chomsky, but as they say, you're only as good as your last performance …
martillo: 'It's Spanish for 'hammer'martillo: 'It's Spanish for 'hammer'
Joined: 20th June 2008
Comments: 4970
Abuse reports: 25
Most recent comment: 'I admire your eye for detail but a site which offers 'sun parasols' for sale is probably beyond all help.'		Joined: 20th June 2008
Comments: 4970
Abuse reports: 25
Most recent comment: 'I admire your eye for detail but a site which offers 'sun parasols' for sale is probably beyond all help.'
What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?
I have to confess that sometimes I just want to opine on something, so I'll just pick whatever interests me most, or which provides the best opportunity to make a joke. Mostly, though, I comment on stories about Spain and the economic crisis or anything about sexuality, even if it's only to complain about the misuse of 'gender'.I have to confess that sometimes I just want to opine on something, so I'll just pick whatever interests me most, or which provides the best opportunity to make a joke. Mostly, though, I comment on stories about Spain and the economic crisis or anything about sexuality, even if it's only to complain about the misuse of 'gender'.
Describe your comment persona in 3 words:

A binge commenter.		Describe your comment persona in 3 words:

A binge commenter.
What's your commenting theme song? What's your commenting theme song?
There Are More Questions Than Answers by Johnny Nash.There Are More Questions Than Answers by Johnny Nash.
Tell us something about who you are offline:Tell us something about who you are offline:
Husband, dog lover, teacher, would-be writer.Husband, dog lover, teacher, would-be writer.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
This is difficult. I chose the below because it's one of the last from Cynicalsteve, a knowledgeable poster who I encountered soon after signing up and the first one I 'knew' to die:This is difficult. I chose the below because it's one of the last from Cynicalsteve, a knowledgeable poster who I encountered soon after signing up and the first one I 'knew' to die:
'Jonathan Swift Satirically riffed On the unrhymable Houyhnhnms Ho humnhnm....''Jonathan Swift Satirically riffed On the unrhymable Houyhnhnms Ho humnhnm....'
What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL?What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL?
That most of us really appreciate the writers who come down among us.That most of us really appreciate the writers who come down among us.
Tell us a secret:Tell us a secret:
One of the reasons I left Britain was to escape a gambling habit that sometimes left me with a 2-hour walk home because I'd lost every penny I had. Now I do a lottery from time to time but have managed to avoid the online bookies which would lead to my ruin.One of the reasons I left Britain was to escape a gambling habit that sometimes left me with a 2-hour walk home because I'd lost every penny I had. Now I do a lottery from time to time but have managed to avoid the online bookies which would lead to my ruin.
Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?
Marina Hyde and Victoria Coren. I love their writing styles and usually agree with them. Oh all right, I find them attractive, too. I also miss Ariane Sherine, for all the same reasons.Marina Hyde and Victoria Coren. I love their writing styles and usually agree with them. Oh all right, I find them attractive, too. I also miss Ariane Sherine, for all the same reasons.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
It's Spanish for 'hammer'. It's because I'm a West Ham supporter and was the only thing I could come up with as a password when I got my first email address.It's Spanish for 'hammer'. It's because I'm a West Ham supporter and was the only thing I could come up with as a password when I got my first email address.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
I've learned a lot about the world, thanks to the posters who contribute knowledge as well as opinion. I don't suppose I've changed my opinion completely about anything but have certainly be made to reconsider.I've learned a lot about the world, thanks to the posters who contribute knowledge as well as opinion. I don't suppose I've changed my opinion completely about anything but have certainly be made to reconsider.
About myself, first the negative things: obsessive; too fond of my own jokes. Positive things: willing to learn and accept correction.About myself, first the negative things: obsessive; too fond of my own jokes. Positive things: willing to learn and accept correction.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
JimPress, Leni, Monkeyfish, among many others.JimPress, Leni, Monkeyfish, among many others.
vernacula: 'Mark Twain wannabe'vernacula: 'Mark Twain wannabe'
Joined: 2nd October 2009
Comments: 194
Abuse reports: 0
Most recent comment: 'The word "low" is not factual. There's no formula to calculate lowness. "Low" does not indicate a set percentage of the total population or a percentage of a subset of the population. If it did, politicians would would have to call the number of homicides in the US every year "very low" at 14,748 and the number of teenaged suicides "ridiculously low" at 2,000.'		Joined: 2nd October 2009
Comments: 194
Abuse reports: 0
Most recent comment: 'The word "low" is not factual. There's no formula to calculate lowness. "Low" does not indicate a set percentage of the total population or a percentage of a subset of the population. If it did, politicians would would have to call the number of homicides in the US every year "very low" at 14,748 and the number of teenaged suicides "ridiculously low" at 2,000.'
What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on? What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?
Anything. If something surprises, inspires, puzzles, or annoys me in the topic, the writing, or the comments that follow. Or if something strikes me as funny, especially if it's not meant to.

Describe your comment persona in 3 words: 		Anything. If something surprises, inspires, puzzles, or annoys me in the topic, the writing, or the comments that follow. Or if something strikes me as funny, especially if it's not meant to.

Describe your comment persona in 3 words:
Mark Twain wannabe.Mark Twain wannabe.
What's your commenting theme song?What's your commenting theme song?
It's often 'Communication Breakdown' by Led Zeppelin.It's often 'Communication Breakdown' by Led Zeppelin.

Tell us something about who you are offline:
Tell us something about who you are offline:
I really like power tools, especially my new electric drill.I really like power tools, especially my new electric drill.
What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL? What's one thing that people ATL should know about what goes on BTL?
Perhaps that people BTL may not think about TL as much as people ATL may think. Now and then, really good comments overtake the story and set the terms of discussion. It can be quite democratic, strong writing prevailing no matter which side of TL it's on. Some of the previous questions hint that ATLers may see comments as a bit more parasitic on stories than BTLers do.Perhaps that people BTL may not think about TL as much as people ATL may think. Now and then, really good comments overtake the story and set the terms of discussion. It can be quite democratic, strong writing prevailing no matter which side of TL it's on. Some of the previous questions hint that ATLers may see comments as a bit more parasitic on stories than BTLers do.
Tell us a secret: Tell us a secret:
Seattle is very sunny, but not too hot, in the summer. We're not supposed to tell anyone because fewer people will move here if they think it rains all the time.Seattle is very sunny, but not too hot, in the summer. We're not supposed to tell anyone because fewer people will move here if they think it rains all the time.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean? Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
It's from a letter written by a woman humanist in 14th-century Italy. Vernacula, probably not a real woman, is castigated for her lack of Latin learning. The joke is that I like to mangle Latin for fun, but it's an extremely private joke, as I'm the only one who gets it.It's from a letter written by a woman humanist in 14th-century Italy. Vernacula, probably not a real woman, is castigated for her lack of Latin learning. The joke is that I like to mangle Latin for fun, but it's an extremely private joke, as I'm the only one who gets it.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
That discourse on the internet has not changed much since Usenet was young and lawless.That discourse on the internet has not changed much since Usenet was young and lawless.
What commenter do you admire? What commenter do you admire?
I've been feelin' rickylee369 lately.I've been feelin' rickylee369 lately.
rickylee369: 'anonymous usernames are for the weak'rickylee369: 'anonymous usernames are for the weak'
Joined: 19th February 2013
Comments: 944
Abuse reports: 3
Most recent comment: 'Amazing writing … so good I could barely read it without laughing. I guess this was supposed to be humorous right? One tip though, punchlines are funnier when the joke doesn't have to be re-read …'		Joined: 19th February 2013
Comments: 944
Abuse reports: 3
Most recent comment: 'Amazing writing … so good I could barely read it without laughing. I guess this was supposed to be humorous right? One tip though, punchlines are funnier when the joke doesn't have to be re-read …'
What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?

I get angry, or disturbed by lack of knowledge by commentators, but especially by journalists. Mainly I write because I have to. I always wanted to get into journalism but never had the focus or the breaks. Commenting and blogging lets me get the crap out of my head. Some people seem to enjoy my contributions, but I get a lot of shit too, not because I'm a troll, but because I believe what I say and try to know what I'm saying before I type.		What about a story makes you want to comment? Or what kinds of stories do you most often comment on?

I get angry, or disturbed by lack of knowledge by commentators, but especially by journalists. Mainly I write because I have to. I always wanted to get into journalism but never had the focus or the breaks. Commenting and blogging lets me get the crap out of my head. Some people seem to enjoy my contributions, but I get a lot of shit too, not because I'm a troll, but because I believe what I say and try to know what I'm saying before I type.
Describe your comment persona in 3 words:Describe your comment persona in 3 words:
Reviews, jokes, politics.Reviews, jokes, politics.
Tell us something about who you are offline:Tell us something about who you are offline:
I am a trainee. I am always learning. I was made redundant from a bar job a couple of months ago. It was a quiet place during the day so I got some good conversation, but the nights were a party.I am a trainee. I am always learning. I was made redundant from a bar job a couple of months ago. It was a quiet place during the day so I got some good conversation, but the nights were a party.
I read, watch cable TV, listen to music and travel. I used my redundancy money to travel to a few places. I am currently looking for work, hopefully as a travel reviewer, but also trying out some poetry and prose freelance.I read, watch cable TV, listen to music and travel. I used my redundancy money to travel to a few places. I am currently looking for work, hopefully as a travel reviewer, but also trying out some poetry and prose freelance.
Tell us a secret:

Although I'm a lazy bastard, when I find something I love I'm a secret workaholic.		Tell us a secret:

Although I'm a lazy bastard, when I find something I love I'm a secret workaholic.
If you want more than that it's gonna cost.If you want more than that it's gonna cost.
Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who? Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?
Victoria Cohen is clever, witty, sexy, and has gorgeous eyes. Congratulations David Mitchell, you utter bastard!Victoria Cohen is clever, witty, sexy, and has gorgeous eyes. Congratulations David Mitchell, you utter bastard!
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean? Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
It came from my mum or my dad, I never asked. Anonymous usernames are for the weak. If I did choose one to escape the prying eyes of corporations and big brother government, I guess I'd be unimaginative and use my porn name, Lucky Power. I have too many interests to put an obvious homage in the frame.It came from my mum or my dad, I never asked. Anonymous usernames are for the weak. If I did choose one to escape the prying eyes of corporations and big brother government, I guess I'd be unimaginative and use my porn name, Lucky Power. I have too many interests to put an obvious homage in the frame.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
Yes. My brain is a sponge. The only thing that doesn't get lodged in there for keeps is a sense of responsibility towards the things I despise.Yes. My brain is a sponge. The only thing that doesn't get lodged in there for keeps is a sense of responsibility towards the things I despise.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
MoreTears. She keeps me up to date on TV I need to see, and always makes insightful contributions to threads.MoreTears. She keeps me up to date on TV I need to see, and always makes insightful contributions to threads.
BehindTheFridge: 'I read the Mail Online. It helps to know your enemy'
BehindTheFridge: 'I read the Mail Online. It helps to know your enemy'
Joined: 23rd August 2012
Comments: 552
Abuse reports: 8
Most recent comment: 'Your usage of "they" surely shows that you know no-one who hates Thatcher. Your implied ignorance of the thoughts, hopes, fears and aspirations of a significant part of the population does not, however, stop you from making statements about a mindset completely alien to you.'		Joined: 23rd August 2012
Comments: 552
Abuse reports: 8
Most recent comment: 'Your usage of "they" surely shows that you know no-one who hates Thatcher. Your implied ignorance of the thoughts, hopes, fears and aspirations of a significant part of the population does not, however, stop you from making statements about a mindset completely alien to you.'
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?
A few times. A piece on the 'War on Drugs' did, as my daughter had died from a heroin overdose three weeks before. A comment from a single mum in a benefits piece made me cry with shame (and respect).A few times. A piece on the 'War on Drugs' did, as my daughter had died from a heroin overdose three weeks before. A comment from a single mum in a benefits piece made me cry with shame (and respect).
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?
It's a very polite term for insufferable dickheads who have yet to grasp the concept of 'debate.'It's a very polite term for insufferable dickheads who have yet to grasp the concept of 'debate.'
What's your commenting theme song? What's your commenting theme song?
'Melissa' by The Allman Brothers'Melissa' by The Allman Brothers
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
Almost none. I'm as boring in real life as I am on CiF.Almost none. I'm as boring in real life as I am on CiF.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
My personal fave is describing Ed Miliband as the Third Form Milk Monitor. He looks the part - eager to please, yet totally useless at anything that needs brains or strength of will.My personal fave is describing Ed Miliband as the Third Form Milk Monitor. He looks the part - eager to please, yet totally useless at anything that needs brains or strength of will.
What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?

SHOUT!		What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?

SHOUT!
Tell us a secret: Tell us a secret:
I read the Mail Online. It helps to know your enemy.I read the Mail Online. It helps to know your enemy.
yesthanno: 'I'm a free-speech absolutist'yesthanno: 'I'm a free-speech absolutist'
Joined: 24th October 2012
Comments: 2811
Abuse reports: 48
Most recent comment: 'Perhaps you should take your own advice?'		Joined: 24th October 2012
Comments: 2811
Abuse reports: 48
Most recent comment: 'Perhaps you should take your own advice?'
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?
Yes. Freewoolly, I think his/her name was, talking about the death of their father. Some of Savvymum's stuff about her disabled child and her struggles with the system upset me, though perhaps not to tears, like the first example.Yes. Freewoolly, I think his/her name was, talking about the death of their father. Some of Savvymum's stuff about her disabled child and her struggles with the system upset me, though perhaps not to tears, like the first example.
I was also upset once, that a comment of mine seemed to have greatly upset someone. A good lesson in how hard it can be to realise how written words can be interpreted in ways the writer neither intended or realised. I'm still learning (and probably failing).I was also upset once, that a comment of mine seemed to have greatly upset someone. A good lesson in how hard it can be to realise how written words can be interpreted in ways the writer neither intended or realised. I'm still learning (and probably failing).
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?
A widely abused term, often used as an excuse to attack someone whose views and/or way of expressing themselves, posters dislike. A 'troll' is someone who deliberately provokes to get a rise out of posters. In the context of a wider debate, where the troll is making a pertinent point, great. Otherwise, a waste of space, best ignored.A widely abused term, often used as an excuse to attack someone whose views and/or way of expressing themselves, posters dislike. A 'troll' is someone who deliberately provokes to get a rise out of posters. In the context of a wider debate, where the troll is making a pertinent point, great. Otherwise, a waste of space, best ignored.
What's your commenting theme song? What's your commenting theme song?
'Love Will Tear Us Apart' by Joy Division.'Love Will Tear Us Apart' by Joy Division.
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
I like to think I'm more coherent online, but too often, after re-reading posts the next day, I hope that's not true (For the sake of my offline friends and family!) Otherwise, I try to be honest both off and online, so in that important sense, I'd say the two are similar.I like to think I'm more coherent online, but too often, after re-reading posts the next day, I hope that's not true (For the sake of my offline friends and family!) Otherwise, I try to be honest both off and online, so in that important sense, I'd say the two are similar.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:

This discussion here:		Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:

This discussion here:
maxdeveremaxdevere
18 February 2013 10:15am18 February 2013 10:15am
The First Law of Philosophy:The First Law of Philosophy:
For every philosopher, there exists an equal and opposite philosopher.For every philosopher, there exists an equal and opposite philosopher.
The Second Law of Philosophy:The Second Law of Philosophy:
They're both wrong."They're both wrong."
What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?

Reporting other commenters in an attempt to get comments removed. I'm a free-speech absolutist. That said, if comments are utterly off-topic, I guess it's OK to seek their removal.		What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?

Reporting other commenters in an attempt to get comments removed. I'm a free-speech absolutist. That said, if comments are utterly off-topic, I guess it's OK to seek their removal.
Tell us a secret:Tell us a secret:
Existence is fake. 'We' made it, and us, up (contradiction is where truth begins).Existence is fake. 'We' made it, and us, up (contradiction is where truth begins).
bbmatt: 'I have to tone down my online self.'
bbmatt: 'I have to tone down my online self.'
Joined: 6th July 2009
Comments: 1158
Abuse reports: 17
Most recent comment: 'In my humble opinion, jackson got it right with "The fellowship of the ring", but it was all downhill from there. That remains the best Tolkien inspired work he's done and probably the best he ever will do.'		Joined: 6th July 2009
Comments: 1158
Abuse reports: 17
Most recent comment: 'In my humble opinion, jackson got it right with "The fellowship of the ring", but it was all downhill from there. That remains the best Tolkien inspired work he's done and probably the best he ever will do.'
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?

Angry, yes. Sad, definitely. Cry, no.		Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?

Angry, yes. Sad, definitely. Cry, no.
There's still something very impersonal about the web. I find anger is very easy to attain online, as is being affronted, annoyed, dismissed. But sadness? Not so much. I can be moved to tears in physical situations, in company, in movies, but not online.There's still something very impersonal about the web. I find anger is very easy to attain online, as is being affronted, annoyed, dismissed. But sadness? Not so much. I can be moved to tears in physical situations, in company, in movies, but not online.
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?

Someone seeking attention with no purpose other than seeking attention - stir things up for no good reason. It's a good word, an apt word.		What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?

Someone seeking attention with no purpose other than seeking attention - stir things up for no good reason. It's a good word, an apt word.
What's your commenting theme song?What's your commenting theme song?
Theme song? That's got to be the oddest question I've ever read. A theme song to making a comment? 'Mission Impossible?'Theme song? That's got to be the oddest question I've ever read. A theme song to making a comment? 'Mission Impossible?'
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
I have to tone down my online self. In the early days of the net, I found it hard to empathise with 'an audience', yet in real life, my empathy for others sets me back massively. I care too much.I have to tone down my online self. In the early days of the net, I found it hard to empathise with 'an audience', yet in real life, my empathy for others sets me back massively. I care too much.
Getting online gave me an outlet to rant and rant, or to be an exhibitionist. It's taken many years to bring the two together. I'm now more or less the same in both camps.Getting online gave me an outlet to rant and rant, or to be an exhibitionist. It's taken many years to bring the two together. I'm now more or less the same in both camps.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
Oh God, my most recent stuff is always my favorite. Because I post online, it apparently means I'm narcissistic, I laugh or agree with my own comments. Re-read them. It's sad, but I'm hardly alone. My most recent:Oh God, my most recent stuff is always my favorite. Because I post online, it apparently means I'm narcissistic, I laugh or agree with my own comments. Re-read them. It's sad, but I'm hardly alone. My most recent:
Once they get past it, they become Pink Floyd fans and get assimilated into Prog Rock style depressive and angst fueled music. Eventually, they start to wax lyrical about the three stages of Floyd and debate which band leader was the most creative. There is no returning after this point.Once they get past it, they become Pink Floyd fans and get assimilated into Prog Rock style depressive and angst fueled music. Eventually, they start to wax lyrical about the three stages of Floyd and debate which band leader was the most creative. There is no returning after this point.
What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?
I tend to ignore annoying comments, but I'd say lack of thought. Not reading another person's comment before jumping to conclusions. Reading between lines that aren't actually there - basically projection of shortcomings onto someone else. That's bad, and happens all the time in online forums.I tend to ignore annoying comments, but I'd say lack of thought. Not reading another person's comment before jumping to conclusions. Reading between lines that aren't actually there - basically projection of shortcomings onto someone else. That's bad, and happens all the time in online forums.
Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who? Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?
I'd like to crush a few Guardian writers, but I don't have a crush on any.I'd like to crush a few Guardian writers, but I don't have a crush on any.
That was a joke, honestly. I admire a lot of Guardian writers and I'm often surprised at the the quality some of the guest writers produce. One fairly regular writer, Russell Brand, completely made me change my opinion of him. Prior to reading his articles, I had written him off as a self-publicising clown. After reading them, hell, here's a self-publicising genius.The eloquence was startling. The level of humanity equally. I'm now a fan. He's cool and I'd like to have lunch with him one day.That was a joke, honestly. I admire a lot of Guardian writers and I'm often surprised at the the quality some of the guest writers produce. One fairly regular writer, Russell Brand, completely made me change my opinion of him. Prior to reading his articles, I had written him off as a self-publicising clown. After reading them, hell, here's a self-publicising genius.The eloquence was startling. The level of humanity equally. I'm now a fan. He's cool and I'd like to have lunch with him one day.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
Long story, but now it means 'Broadband Matt.' The origins of the name stem from the length of my hair back in the early 90's. I lived in South Africa at the time and acquired the nickname 'Bos Kop', which translates to 'Bush Head'. When I got online in '95, I used that as my nickname - boskop. It very rapidly became evident that this nickname didn't translate too well to those in the USA - the most prevalent internet users at that time. I changed it to bushboy - boy of the bush. Fast forward a few years. It's now the Bush era. A rapid change of nickname was required, so I just shortened bushboy to bb and appended it to my real name.Long story, but now it means 'Broadband Matt.' The origins of the name stem from the length of my hair back in the early 90's. I lived in South Africa at the time and acquired the nickname 'Bos Kop', which translates to 'Bush Head'. When I got online in '95, I used that as my nickname - boskop. It very rapidly became evident that this nickname didn't translate too well to those in the USA - the most prevalent internet users at that time. I changed it to bushboy - boy of the bush. Fast forward a few years. It's now the Bush era. A rapid change of nickname was required, so I just shortened bushboy to bb and appended it to my real name.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
Yes. I'm a liberal.Yes. I'm a liberal.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
Billhook. He, or she, takes the time to make a point, to reply, to convince you. Educated, intelligent, gentleman.Billhook. He, or she, takes the time to make a point, to reply, to convince you. Educated, intelligent, gentleman.
TheSanityInspector: 'Although I'm conservative, I wear sandals with socks, listen to NPR, and quite enjoy lattes'TheSanityInspector: 'Although I'm conservative, I wear sandals with socks, listen to NPR, and quite enjoy lattes'
Joined: 1st April 2011
Comments: 501
Abuse reports: 6
Most recent comment: 'These things are born from the necessity of having to type on glass with one's thumbs and keep to a brutally short character limit. NTTAWWT…'		Joined: 1st April 2011
Comments: 501
Abuse reports: 6
Most recent comment: 'These things are born from the necessity of having to type on glass with one's thumbs and keep to a brutally short character limit. NTTAWWT…'
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry? Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?
Only my own, when I'm publicly proven wrong or fail miserably in an attempted jest.Only my own, when I'm publicly proven wrong or fail miserably in an attempted jest.
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?
Someone who deprives you of repose without providing you with company.Someone who deprives you of repose without providing you with company.
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
I'm much more poised online, as anyone would be with the benefit of more time to react to what is said.I'm much more poised online, as anyone would be with the benefit of more time to react to what is said.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
I'm grateful for the notice of the lone comment of mine that was picked by the editors. But to me it seemed unremarkable. I think rather highly of this recent comment of mine:I'm grateful for the notice of the lone comment of mine that was picked by the editors. But to me it seemed unremarkable. I think rather highly of this recent comment of mine:
In the 30s, serious intellectuals traveled to the Soviet Union to hail it as the future of humanity. In the 60s and 70s, writers, actors & other assorted glitterati went to Cuba to be schmoozed by El Jefe. And now North Korea has hauled in...a retired basketball player with a penchant for shock publicity. The quality of useful idiots is on a definite downward trajectory.In the 30s, serious intellectuals traveled to the Soviet Union to hail it as the future of humanity. In the 60s and 70s, writers, actors & other assorted glitterati went to Cuba to be schmoozed by El Jefe. And now North Korea has hauled in...a retired basketball player with a penchant for shock publicity. The quality of useful idiots is on a definite downward trajectory.
A Western blogger based in South Korea reblogged it, as the best comment about that incident he had seen.A Western blogger based in South Korea reblogged it, as the best comment about that incident he had seen.
What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?What's the most annoying thing commenters do? Or what makes a commenter annoying?
Whining about the moderators. Only n00bs whine about the mods, as the t-shirt ought to say.Whining about the moderators. Only n00bs whine about the mods, as the t-shirt ought to say.
Tell us a secret:Tell us a secret:
Although I'm conservative, I wear sandals with socks, listen to NPR, and quite enjoy lattes.Although I'm conservative, I wear sandals with socks, listen to NPR, and quite enjoy lattes.
Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?
I tend to shadow Glenn Greenwald somewhat more than the others, in hopes he might notice me ankle-biting him. I remember him from when he used to tangle with a blogger whose commenting community I used to belong to. Being noticed by columnists and big-time bloggers gives me a giddy thrill, have to admit.I tend to shadow Glenn Greenwald somewhat more than the others, in hopes he might notice me ankle-biting him. I remember him from when he used to tangle with a blogger whose commenting community I used to belong to. Being noticed by columnists and big-time bloggers gives me a giddy thrill, have to admit.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
My seemingly self-congratulatory nic is actually an homage to Alan Coren's delightful book of the same name. Few people catch the allusion; I guess 1974 was quite a long time ago.My seemingly self-congratulatory nic is actually an homage to Alan Coren's delightful book of the same name. Few people catch the allusion; I guess 1974 was quite a long time ago.
What about a story makes you want to comment?What about a story makes you want to comment?
If it reminds me of an apposite pull-quote from elsewhere, or if I feel strongly about the issue, or if I completely disagree and have something to contribute besides simple disagreement.If it reminds me of an apposite pull-quote from elsewhere, or if I feel strongly about the issue, or if I completely disagree and have something to contribute besides simple disagreement.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
Yes, Paul Gallico was right: 'No one can be as calculatedly rude as the British, which amazes Americans, who do not understand studied insult and can only offer abuse as a substitute.'Yes, Paul Gallico was right: 'No one can be as calculatedly rude as the British, which amazes Americans, who do not understand studied insult and can only offer abuse as a substitute.'
I've also had something that I learned much earlier repeatedly reinforced: It is possible for people to be intelligent, informed, and honest--and yet disagree. This is always somewhat jarring, and I doubt I'll ever get entirely used to it.I've also had something that I learned much earlier repeatedly reinforced: It is possible for people to be intelligent, informed, and honest--and yet disagree. This is always somewhat jarring, and I doubt I'll ever get entirely used to it.
billysbar: 'Although my avatar is Murray, I am actually Jemaine'billysbar: 'Although my avatar is Murray, I am actually Jemaine'
Joined: 4th June 2010
Comments: 5824
Abuse reports: 168
Most recent comment: "To be fair, you have to listen to form an opinion."		Joined: 4th June 2010
Comments: 5824
Abuse reports: 168
Most recent comment: "To be fair, you have to listen to form an opinion."
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?
No, I'm hard as nails.No, I'm hard as nails.
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?
I think a good troll is very amusing, but they are few and far between. A subtle wind up is a joy to behold. A good piece of trolling is not noticeable as trolling for the first 2 or 3 comments.I think a good troll is very amusing, but they are few and far between. A subtle wind up is a joy to behold. A good piece of trolling is not noticeable as trolling for the first 2 or 3 comments.
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
Although my avatar is Murray, I am actually Jemaine.Although my avatar is Murray, I am actually Jemaine.
Tell us a secret:Tell us a secret:
I contracted an STD in 2011.I contracted an STD in 2011.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean? Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
My username comes from a bar at Elland Road, the home of Leeds United, as if you didn't know! It is named after Billy Bremner, the legendary captain in the glory days of the late 60's/early 70's.My username comes from a bar at Elland Road, the home of Leeds United, as if you didn't know! It is named after Billy Bremner, the legendary captain in the glory days of the late 60's/early 70's.
What about a story makes you want to comment? What about a story makes you want to comment?
Stories? Does anyone actually read them? I just feed off the comments that people post BTL.Stories? Does anyone actually read them? I just feed off the comments that people post BTL.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
I learned that I had contracted an STD in 2011. I am adamant that i will keep that a secret though.I learned that I had contracted an STD in 2011. I am adamant that i will keep that a secret though.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
Themanfromnantucket, Packrat, Defintelynotashark, and anyone else that used to post BTL on the infamous Rumour Mill until the moderators finally lost patience and banned commenting (I bear no grudges)!Themanfromnantucket, Packrat, Defintelynotashark, and anyone else that used to post BTL on the infamous Rumour Mill until the moderators finally lost patience and banned commenting (I bear no grudges)!
MetalDad: 'I never wear my Vader mask in public'
MetalDad: 'I never wear my Vader mask in public'
Joined: 25th February 2010
Comments: 1560
Abuse reports: 16
Most recent comment: '"My posse and I…"'		Joined: 25th February 2010
Comments: 1560
Abuse reports: 16
Most recent comment: '"My posse and I…"'
Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry? Has a comment (or commenter) ever made you cry?
No. Some personal stories are incredibly unhappy and often sadden me, make me livid at injustice (or negligence in services supposed to help us) or in the intolerance, crassness and idiocy of some of our fellow humans. Sometimes they cheer me enormously when people triumph over adversity, but they are unfortunately rarer.No. Some personal stories are incredibly unhappy and often sadden me, make me livid at injustice (or negligence in services supposed to help us) or in the intolerance, crassness and idiocy of some of our fellow humans. Sometimes they cheer me enormously when people triumph over adversity, but they are unfortunately rarer.
In the real world I do cry when sad things happen sometimes, and I'm not embarrassed. Oddly though, since losing my parents, I am much more liable to cry watching TV drama. If children are hurt or people lose relatives or (worst of all) their dogs, I'm away. Weirdly, half my brain is often complaining that the scene isn't even very well written or acted, but the music swells up and I'm lost. Then again, my lovely wife usually cuddles me if she sees me like that, which does make things a lot better!In the real world I do cry when sad things happen sometimes, and I'm not embarrassed. Oddly though, since losing my parents, I am much more liable to cry watching TV drama. If children are hurt or people lose relatives or (worst of all) their dogs, I'm away. Weirdly, half my brain is often complaining that the scene isn't even very well written or acted, but the music swells up and I'm lost. Then again, my lovely wife usually cuddles me if she sees me like that, which does make things a lot better!
What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?What do you think of the term 'troll'? What does it mean to you?
The true troll to me is the obnoxious opinionated one who, when you check their profile, only set themselves up that very day, or only makes extreme comments on one specific topic, say Christianity or abortion. I have to say that I often suspect them of being better known Cif-ers, hiding behind a mask to prevent tainting their everyday persona.The true troll to me is the obnoxious opinionated one who, when you check their profile, only set themselves up that very day, or only makes extreme comments on one specific topic, say Christianity or abortion. I have to say that I often suspect them of being better known Cif-ers, hiding behind a mask to prevent tainting their everyday persona.
What's your commenting theme song?

'Tub Thumping by Chumbawamba but mainly for the chorus line "I get knocked down, but I get up again..." Applies here and in real life.		What's your commenting theme song?

'Tub Thumping by Chumbawamba but mainly for the chorus line "I get knocked down, but I get up again..." Applies here and in real life.
In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?In what ways does who you are online differ from who you are in real life?
In real life, I don't always have the luxury of forming a complete comment or argument, before the other person talks over me, so discussion here is luxury. I am more inclined to tolerance in the real world, because people often speak without thinking something through. Here, though, they have spent time and effort on their words, so I judge them more severely accordingly.In real life, I don't always have the luxury of forming a complete comment or argument, before the other person talks over me, so discussion here is luxury. I am more inclined to tolerance in the real world, because people often speak without thinking something through. Here, though, they have spent time and effort on their words, so I judge them more severely accordingly.
I'm taller, more massive and more quietly spoken in the real world, but I never wear my Vader mask in public, so I can pass among my people almost as if I were one of them.I'm taller, more massive and more quietly spoken in the real world, but I never wear my Vader mask in public, so I can pass among my people almost as if I were one of them.
Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:Share a comment (either yours or someone else's) that you think is particularly fantastic:
Best exchange I've seen recently (which made me snort coffee over my keyboard) on "Blogging Students" 01 May at 11.16am:Best exchange I've seen recently (which made me snort coffee over my keyboard) on "Blogging Students" 01 May at 11.16am:
BlueJam - My dog has no-nos.BlueJam - My dog has no-nos.
hardatwork - @BlueJam - how does he spell?hardatwork - @BlueJam - how does he spell?
BlueJam - He doesn't – that's one of his no-nos."BlueJam - He doesn't – that's one of his no-nos."
Genius. Just genius.Genius. Just genius.
Tell us a secret:Tell us a secret:
I really like electric, neon coloured ankle socks in orange, lemon or green and prefer to spend every Saturday wearing a mismatched pair. Losing my old ones a few years ago in a house move was very upsetting.I really like electric, neon coloured ankle socks in orange, lemon or green and prefer to spend every Saturday wearing a mismatched pair. Losing my old ones a few years ago in a house move was very upsetting.
Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who? Do you have a crush on a Guardian writer? Who?
No crushes, but there are some voices I like, even if I don't always agree with them.No crushes, but there are some voices I like, even if I don't always agree with them.
Bella Mackie does a hard job with a good grace, but lets' say no more about nesting. Deborah Orr and Sarah Ditum usually speak sense. John Harris and Andrew Rawnsley do well in a tough role as the voices of political moderation.Bella Mackie does a hard job with a good grace, but lets' say no more about nesting. Deborah Orr and Sarah Ditum usually speak sense. John Harris and Andrew Rawnsley do well in a tough role as the voices of political moderation.
Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean? Tell us about your username. Where did it come from? What, if anything, does it mean?
I've long identified with Darth Vader (that IS me in the avatar photo) and when I got invited to play online games, I had to come up with a gamer tag - and that was it. It signifies the excitement of gaming, the interest in science fiction and the fact that being a Dad is probably my most important job. Plus it entitles me to whistle the Imperial March as I stride the corridors of power annoying people.I've long identified with Darth Vader (that IS me in the avatar photo) and when I got invited to play online games, I had to come up with a gamer tag - and that was it. It signifies the excitement of gaming, the interest in science fiction and the fact that being a Dad is probably my most important job. Plus it entitles me to whistle the Imperial March as I stride the corridors of power annoying people.
What about a story makes you want to comment?

An emotional response, if I have a very strong opinion, or if I know more than the person that wrote it and want to correct the misleading picture they present.		What about a story makes you want to comment?

An emotional response, if I have a very strong opinion, or if I know more than the person that wrote it and want to correct the misleading picture they present.
Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian? Have you learned anything (about yourself or the world) since you started commenting on the Guardian?
I have learned I have stronger opinions than I initially thought. I don't have the time to do conversations, so I usually try for a self contained short piece. I dashed one off saying how bored I was with endless, pointless articles on "middle class – good or evil?" the other day. It got over 650 recommends. That always takes me aback.I have learned I have stronger opinions than I initially thought. I don't have the time to do conversations, so I usually try for a self contained short piece. I dashed one off saying how bored I was with endless, pointless articles on "middle class – good or evil?" the other day. It got over 650 recommends. That always takes me aback.
I don't respond well to criticism and my tendency in life and in print is to attack in defence. I have learned to rein that in and seldom rise to the bait now. Mainly because there is no point and also because I can't spare the time.I don't respond well to criticism and my tendency in life and in print is to attack in defence. I have learned to rein that in and seldom rise to the bait now. Mainly because there is no point and also because I can't spare the time.
What commenter do you admire?What commenter do you admire?
Billysbar always makes me smile, as does Definatelynotashark.Billysbar always makes me smile, as does Definatelynotashark.
SavvyMum, Brownley, MostUncivilised, kristinekochanski, and several more I will always read, and they almost always have something to say that's worth hearing. DrabWilly recently said I sometimes talk sense, so by definition, he or she is a person of enormous intellect and impeccable judgement.SavvyMum, Brownley, MostUncivilised, kristinekochanski, and several more I will always read, and they almost always have something to say that's worth hearing. DrabWilly recently said I sometimes talk sense, so by definition, he or she is a person of enormous intellect and impeccable judgement.