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LJ Cohen
Moderator
Username: ljc

Post Number: 9295
Registered: 07-2002
Posted on Saturday, April 26, 2008 - 11:22 am:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post

Just a general comment--this is not directed at anyone in particular--I and some of the other moderators have been distressed at the tone and tenor of some of the comments on Wild of late.

Please remember that without the benefit of visual cues and a history of a long relationship, it is often difficult to read the correct emotional intent of the written word. I know that this is ironic given we are poets and use the written word to relay emotion, but in communication, only a fraction of meaning is carried by the words alone. Something like 80% of meaning is carried by non-verbals--tone of voice, context, facial expressions.

Before jumping to conclusions about what someone intended or did not intend in a written communication, please ask for clarification. Feedback can be given in a non aggressive way using "I" statements and emotionally neutral language.

If everyone took a little more care in their communication, then misunderstandings can be minimized and we can all get back to the business of poetry.

Thank you.

Best,
ljc
Once in a Blue Muse Blog
LJCohen
"A-Bear"
Senior Member
Username: dane

Post Number: 2151
Registered: 11-1998
Posted on Saturday, April 26, 2008 - 6:58 pm:   Edit Post Delete Post View Post/Check IP Print Post

I asked someone today if the acronym "FU" had a meaning to them. Of course, they had the benefit of my smile and intonation. They laughed, took nothing negative from my question, and they understood the reasoning behind it. You can't do the same in cyberspace. Not without a lot of platitude and explanation beforehand. Even then, it's not a 100% certain the humor will be taken for what it was intended to be. A good observation, Lisa.

D