More on Brent & the Antichrist

[The Great Quail]

Doug writes,

>Let's see -- you contacted me offlist and explained you think Barbara is "a
>major annoyance of the screaming harpy bitch variety", but you think I'm
>only a "minor annoyance," and you consider this an "apology"?  Just
>curious, but what would you consider an insult?

Doug Tactic #12: Violate Netiquette and betray confidence by using 
off-list postings on-list, all under a mask of polite engagement in 
an issue.

>Buddy, you are getting off to a rough start in 2002.  I really hope things
>start looking brighter for you.  I'm adding you to my prayer list pronto.

Doug Tactic #7: Imply that his opponent has some sort of bad personal 
life, and that his only way of venting this frustration is to abuse 
the List. Note the faux-pious religious angle, further enshrining 
himself behind a fortress of mock politeness and false caring.

>You'll also know, I guess,
>that the list is unmoderated, and that -- last time I checked -- Pynchon-L
>is not seeking to engage a moderator to manage the discussion.

Doug Tactic #2: Non sequitur made for no reason except to pin 
negative things upon his opponent.

Doug Tactic #6: Imply or accuse that opponent wishes for a moderated 
List, even when Doug is one of the only people who actually desires 
this.

>Stick around, however, and share some of your insight into Pynchon, instead
>of just asking the list to do a better job of entertaining you.

Doug Tactic #1: Distort opponent's point. In this case, Brent was not 
seeking entertainment, but illumination about Pynchon, which is, 
after all, one of the main purposes of the List.

>  I'd love
>to hear what you have to say.

Doug Tactic #2: Lying through his teeth about his intentions. Usually 
done to bolster his mask of false politeness.

--Big Bird