Dear Britt (And Other A-Listers).
So, I called a blogger an ‘A-lister’ today, via twitter. When I got back from the-class-that-didn’t-happen (more on THAT later), Britt had posted a massive post about how she hates being called a rock star, or an alpha blogger, or a A-lister. Oops, I thought. Shit, shit, shit. So I went to read it, naturally.
I. Was. Floored.
In Britt’s own words, “the moment people start throwing words like “rock star” and “A-list” and “alpha” around, it makes a big joke out of something that means a lot to me.” Wow. Just, wow. So, I tweeted quickly about how I shan’t be doing that again, but I’m still. Just. Floored. Disappointed, too.
I’m disappointed that a comment I made, that was supposed to be supportive, uplifting, and send the clear message of, “You and your blog are awesome” was simply fuel for the fire that is Britt’s hatred of the term A-lister. Apparently to a lot of people, it brings to mind cliques and celebrity bloggers and popularity contests.
Hell, even I put it in quotation marks.
My own use of it is in reference to the blogs that I read every day, that I check twice a day, often. However, as an unknown blogger, I feel quite justified in saying that Britt is definitely up there when it comes to blogging popularity contests. And you know what? So she bloody should be, because she is a fantastic writer.
So, Britt. I apologise if you think a term that brands you as being popular, or being admired a great deal by your readers cheapens your writing, your reputation, or your blog. I meant it with the best of intentions, and while I know that you’re not jetting around the world and supporting your family by blogging?
300 unique visits and 30 comments a day are nothing to sniff at.
Maybe you – and anyone else who views the terms A-lister and alpha blogger as derogatory – should consider the other side of the coin. People respect you, admire your writing, care about your life. They consider you A-listers in the blog community because of your influence on their lives, not because of your income.
Behind the hype and craze of a new ‘net term, are people who use it for the right reasons, and with nothing but good thoughts. Keep those people in mind next time the terms are tossed around, please. Try to remember how they meant it, and take the label as an indication of how many people respect and care about you.
And hey? Feel free to share around some of that ‘A-lister’ goodness. ;)
Tags: bloggers
July 10th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
It was a culmination of things that made her write that post, including a big conversation with Karl a few weeks ago, so don’t feel too bad!
You can call me an A-lister and rock star all you want, though. I don’t have the same problems with it. :D
July 10th, 2008 at 10:46 pm
Oh man. I’m so sorry.
First of all - I SWEAR that this post was not written in response to your tweet. Honestly. :-)
And I know that people mean it nice. I know that people are being supportive.
And I what I SHOULD do, what I need to LEARN to do, is smile and say “wow, thank you”.
But as one of my commenters pointed out today - I struggle with that. I have no problem showing the world all of the ways in which I suck. But as soon as someone compliments me I get all weird and uncomfortable.
*sigh*
I’ve got issues.
ANYway - thank you for your support. Really and truly. Thank you.
And you’re right - it is absolutely NOTHING to sniff at.
July 10th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
Oh, I know it wasn’t just me. But it happened RIGHT after I twittered to her, so I was all, “Crap! I upset the Queen!” Britt is one of my favourite bloggers, and I just wanted people to realise that not everyone uses the terms ‘A-lister’ and ‘alpha blogger’ in a negative way.
You’re definitely a rock star, Avitable. ;)
Thanks for the comment.
July 10th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
Heh, as I said to Avitable above, I know it wasn’t my tweet. It just felt like it, and I’m sensitive about things like that. You could say I have issues. ;)
I’m with you on feeling uncomfortable with compliments, but honestly? You deserve them. Really, and truly. Your web presence, your shared thoughts and experiences, and your honesty have helped a lot of people. You see that every day, in comments, as people reach out to you.
As for my support? You’re welcome. I read through your entire archives in one sitting, and I have continued to visit and read. In doing so, I’ve come to respect you - and your opinion - and to care about your life and your well-being.
That’s why you’re on my A-list. =D
Thanks for stopping by.
July 10th, 2008 at 11:50 pm
I have to agree, Britt, I love reading your blog. I was away for a week and actually missed reading you (among my other favorite morning reads…poppy, adam, dawg and amy)…..
You are real…and if real means “rock star” “alpha blogger” “a lister” then roll with it. Because you are you and thats what everyone enjoys.
July 10th, 2008 at 11:50 pm
And now I have a new blog to read :)
July 11th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
Just Me, thank you for the comment. =)
I think we’re agreed on Britt’s awesomeness, yes?