Andrew Sullivan explains in length why he blogs and how it differs from traditional writing in his article “Why I Blog.” He discusses the advantages of blogging as well as repeatedly reminds his audience of the disadvantage of needing tough skin. Overall, it seemed Sullivan’s favorite part about blogging is the “intimacy” with his audience. He can receive instant feedback and feels as though he knows his audience better because of the instant communication that the internet gives him. Also, Sullivan points out a unique perspective about blogs is that they serve as a snapshot in time. When big events occur, he can look at his posts and see how his emotions and positions around the event changed over time as he discovered more facts. This snapshot allows a raw truth of emotion in times of tragedy like the 9/11 attacks as Sullivan points out. Due to the relationship between bloggers and readers, everyone can expand their knowledge base as they share other articles and experiences. Sullivan sees this as an advantage so that the population is more educated and can see all sides of an issue. Another reason why Sullivan sees blogging as advantageous is that each person can keep their individuality that could be lost in a publication that needs to uphold a reputation. This individuality may lead to more truth being spread. As a writer, Sullivan only had one negative to blogging. Because people say their brutal opinions, writers have to grow tough skin that they wouldn’t normally have to have going through an editor. Overall, Sullivan’s advantages outweigh the disadvantages of blogging.
November 2008; Sat. 10/18
It's true Sullivan had mainly positive things to say about blogging! I guess people's criticism can definitely be hurtful especially behind a screen where people have more courage to say ruder things! I guess we just have to filter the what's good and bad criticism
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