I put a lot of effort into taking a, well, journalistic approach to blogging. Hmm. No, no, I don’t think journalistic is too strong a word. I’m conscious, at every turn, that I must resist the biggest temptation of being a famous blogger. No … not the free blow I get at parties. Sure, the slavishly devoted male underwear models are enticing, but that’s not what I’m talking about either. The most dangerous pitfall of having a blog is turning it into a forum for self-validation.
You know what I’m talking about … those blogs where the author endlessly yabs about what a great writer she is, how witty she can be, and how her bod is smokin’ hot. (Okay, I couldn’t actually find a post where I brag about my bangin’ ass. It’s bangin’. *Trust* me.)
In all seriousness, it is tempting to present yourself in a flattering light, to try to control your “image,” to put forward only the parts of yourself that (rightly or wrongly) you’re excessively fond of. Of course, this happens IRL as well. It’s human nature to want to make a good impression. In writing, though, there’s a level of calculation involved that just seems, I dunno, creepy to me.
I try to avoid self-spin … sometimes obsessively, in fact, but let’s face it … getting naked—emotionally, intellectually—ain’t easy. It’s the hardest thing there is. When Mimi told me recently to stop using the blog to brag about all the guys I’ve fucked, I began to wonder if I’ve been a little neglectful of my journalistic responsibilities lately. (Well, first I accused her of being jealous, then I began to wonder.)
To counter this possible trend, I’ve decided to begin making one post a week that’s just me … no spin. It may be a bit like trying to have a rational discussion with Bush about why we can’t use Norway as a penal colony, but “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” and all that, right?
So, what’s “just me” this week? Dude, I just blew my sincerity wad. Check back tomorrow.
I won’t accuse you of narcissism until you start posting your own nipple slips and see-thru shots with the tag “celebrity.”
Shit, bro, you always have the BEST ideas. Why didn’t I think of that?