When Keeping It Real On Twitter Goes Wrong ...

#firstworldproblems

 

I suppose the Twain comparison rings hollow if you think of Twain mostly as a novelist or historical figure. But Twain wrote millions of words of sharp political satire on deadline for newspapers, too.

So I'm not sure the comparison is outrageous on its face.

 

Did Twain hate everyone he disagreed with?

 

Yes, but he eventually agreed to be a contributor to Grantland.

 

And Arthur Conan Doyle took the gig as ESPN Magazine back page columnist.

 

But only after Tommy Craggs turned it down!!!

 

Chris Jones tweets, of Stephen Rodrick, "Now that he's protected his account, like treasure, I'm afraid the fun has come to an end." But Rodrick's account isn't protected. Does this mean Rodrick blocked Jones? I don't know what it shows someone who you've blocked.

Anyway, I don't think anyone comes across particularly well in this fiasco, though I don't think it damages anyone much either. It appears Rodrick was caught in the middle of the Jones-Tom Scocca crossfire, so maybe he ends up the loser.

 

Why assume a political writer/humorist/satirist hates anyone?

 

It's because Pierce is a polarizing writer. He's unapologetically partisan, politically. And he's also a big-time stylist, as far as writing style goes.

 

Very true - but I'm pretty sure has nothing to do with how last night's Twitter feud started.

 

Because it's a bore to read, for one.

 

True, but I think it has a lot to do with how a lot of Pierce brou-ha-ha's on this site have started. For whatever reason, people are emotionally invested in Pierce's work, and I think a lot of it is because he's a love-him-or-hate-him writer, both with his politics and his ornate style. Ultimately, it's probably a net positive that people are that passionate about writing, even though it can lead to some fleeting ugliness.