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Eruonen
Gondolin
Oct 28 2021, 6:06pm
Post #1 of 34
(3488 views)
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Not much engagement on posts lately
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I have noticed posts by others and also my own posts that have a lot of views but sometimes not a single comment. Are people loathe to engage or express an opinion? There are some posts that are just informational so a response is not expected. There are others that pose a question or an observation. Do people feel unwelcome?
Or, I can just chalk it up to my inability to start a conversation.
Oh well, out of my control. Maybe there has been a general decrease in activity all around as the tv series is still a long way off.
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Otaku-sempai
Elvenhome
Oct 28 2021, 11:48pm
Post #2 of 34
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...I often find myself loathe to comment unless I think I have a meaningful contribution to the subject at hand. Even then, I might feel that I have to give it more thought or research before I share an opinion.
#FidelityToTolkien
#ChallengeExpectations
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Eruonen
Gondolin
Oct 28 2021, 11:53pm
Post #3 of 34
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Otaku you are certainly active - I just think in general things are a bit slow compared to the past
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squire
Gondolin
Oct 29 2021, 12:36am
Post #4 of 34
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I suspect the viewership numbers are down as social media takes over
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The TORn message boards, I get the feeling, simply don't have the participation that they used to. That affects, I would guess, the motivation for the remaining viewers to post comments on the boards, if they feel that very few will read them and almost no one will comment on them. I know I feel that way at times, even as I try to stay current and read the threads and answer them.
I think this is because this entire format - the online bulletin board - is receding into the past. Social media, like Facebook, have taken over and an entire younger generation of online fans feels far more comfortable posting there than here. For instance, TORn's Facebook page is very much more active than these boards are, I have found in the past few years. There - imagine this! - you can put up a photo by just hitting a link rather than inserting html code and a web address into your comment. Kids these days, spoiled rotten, somehow choose the former option rather than the latter when they want to share with fellow Tolkien fans the latest image of Ulmo or Luthien that they've just found online.
I still try to keep up with all my Tolkien fan connections, but I find these boards come in second to FB (the only social media I follow) in terms of volume, and thus of participation. I wish it was not so, as I have a deep loyalty to these forums, but I think it's just a sign of the times. Please don't take it all personally!
squire online:
RR Discussions: The Valaquenta, A Shortcut to Mushrooms, and Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit
Lights! Action! Discuss on the Movie board!: 'A Journey in the Dark'. and 'Designing The Two Towers'.
Archive: All the TORn Reading Room Book Discussions (including the 1st BotR Discussion!) and Footerama: "Tolkien would have LOVED it!"
Dr. Squire introduces the J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia: A Reader's Diary
 = Forum has no new posts. Forum needs no new posts.
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Eruonen
Gondolin
Oct 29 2021, 12:52am
Post #5 of 34
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I did not even know there was a Facebook page
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....which in itself is a dinosaur for the younger crowd.
The bulletin board format may be old but it serves its purpose very well with the various threads to engage in.....social media just is not built for multiple topics etc.
Some of the posts will have 1200 views and no comments.....hard to understand.
(This post was edited by Eruonen on Oct 29 2021, 12:52am)
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Cirashala
Doriath
Oct 29 2021, 1:55am
Post #6 of 34
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it's a matter of TIME. I have time to lurk on occasion, but not as much time to post as I would like.
My husband was classified, as a mental health counselor/child therapist, as essential during Covid, and I homeschool, so our lives didn't really slow down during the early days of Covid, unlike many others. Plus, Idaho has been open since summer 2020, so there's that, too.
Here's what's on my plate atm:
1. We're building our house (yes, sadly, still- more explanation below),
2. I'm running a soap and candle farmer's market business (we still have almost every Saturday booked through Dec 11th- by we, I mean my business partner and I. She's doing most of the events, though both of our product is on the table, as she's been doing it for 25 years, and she knows we need to work on the house), AND
3. Due to Covid blowing up our budget on our house build, and leaving us about $8500 short of the amount we need to finish it, I've also picked up a few house cleaning jobs, too. I can't wear a mask physically- I overheat and pass out (I can't use steam saunas, either- never could get my face hot), so, with corporations starting to push them again, a "regular" job isn't going to work for me.
Between the Covid price gouging (OSB- that board under your siding- went from $8/sheet to (I kid you not) $70/sheet, and all construction materials prices went sky-high like that  We had enough to finish our house...until that happened  ), and the cost of everything else going up (but wages not budging), my husband's income doesn't leave hardly anything left over for construction materials now.
He may have a master's degree in mental health, but he's working at a community mental health agency that is 95% funded by Washington Medicaid, and anyone who has experience with that knows that Medicaid only reimburses $0.40 for every $1 on medical services. He could make more, theoretically, in private practice, but he's not licensed in Idaho yet where we live, and Washington healthcare is all corporate-run now. Plus, if a private practice client doesn't show up, he doesn't get paid for that hour, and that's very risky when he's our main source of income!
So I'm doing the farmer's market/vendor events, and housecleaning, in an attempt to try and help pay for construction materials. Since we're owner-builders, but aren't professional contractors, we cannot get a construction loan to finish the job, and we can't afford another loan payment, either. We also can't refi our property, despite having almost $100,000 in equity, because banks won't refinance a land loan (we don't owe anything on the house, just the land), and it won't be a real mortgage til the house is done, and we have a Certificate of Occupancy from the county, so those funds are literally tied up in the land, and unavailable to us for construction.
It's been very, very frustrating, to say the least. I even started a Go Fund Me, hoping that someone out there would see our plight and offer to help, but that hasn't gone anywhere, either. I imagine living in an rv trailer for 2.5 years with two kids in a place with harsh winters to build our home on our land that, in the end, will be far more affordable (since we only owe on the land) than anything else in the area isn't something that really tugs at the heartstrings 
I'm trying to keep in mind the big picture that started this in the first place- that, in the end, we'll only pay a quarter of my husband's salary on our mortgage, as opposed to everyone else, who are paying over $2,000 per month for even tiny apartments (yeah, the housing here right now is out of control. Hopefully that'll change after this year's local elections, and we kick out very corrupt city and county officials who are the direct cause of the housing mess).
But, in the meantime, we're really weary of living in the trailer, 3 minute showers (a 7 gallon water heater doesn't go far), a tiny kitchen, the girls want an actual room again, rather than just bunks, frozen hoses and drain lines (really hoping that doesn't happen again this winter- had to use the neighbor's portapotty on their site for two days in single digit temps, and shower at my in-law's house 25 miles away), and the audacity of the field mice in unceremoniously seeking free food and warm lodgings every winter (we are composing a plan worthy of the Normandy invasion for this winter with the little jerks).
Sorry for the rant...it's been a frustrating season with Covid's effects on finances, and the house build, and the delays the price-gouging has caused
Anyway, that's why I haven't been posting quite as often. I've been pretty busy in real life. I've also noticed that there haven't been many posts overall, as you pointed out, so there's less to comment ON. I've asked some questions, but they don't get many answers, either.
My guess is that people are just busy, to be honest. That's probably the biggest reason why the boards have slowed down.
My writing and novels:
My Hobbit Fanfiction
My historical novel print and kindle version
My historical novels ebook version compatible with all ereaders
You can also find my novel at most major book retailers online (and for those outside the US who prefer a print book, you can find the print version at Book Depository). Search "Amazing Grace Amanda Longpre'" to find it.
Happy reading everyone!
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Eruonen
Gondolin
Oct 29 2021, 3:13am
Post #7 of 34
(3344 views)
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Ok, I will give you a pass this time!
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We are building currently and will move from the Chicago area to Tennessee in January. Getting rid of so much stuff that is collected over a lifetime. Cathartic experience - once it is gone it is not missed in most cases.
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Cirashala
Doriath
Oct 29 2021, 3:28am
Post #8 of 34
(3344 views)
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We're downsizing into a smaller home from our 1412 sf house in town, but upsizing in the land (1/4 acre to 5 acres). We did this because a) It's always been a dream of mine to have a hobby farm and raise our own milk, meat, and eggs, plus garden and fruit trees, and b) it has the room that we were able to get my grandma over here in a single-wide, close to family, so that she would have someone close in case of emergency, and so she could remain home and independent, instead of in a nursing home as she aged. This is literally a 25 year dream in the making. I'm very hobbity in this regard 
However, I designed the house in such a way that we can easily add on later (an extra door, and no windows, doors, or vents on that side. The door is solely so we don't have to damage the wall when we add on, as a doorway is already framed in, and it follows our roof line and width exactly), and plan for a future 26x20 addition with a basement (currently, couldn't afford a full basement, otherwise we would have done so. Right now, it's a crawlspace), so it will someday be a 4 bedroom, 3 bath house that's 2080 square foot in size, when it's a little more affordable to do so.
I wish you the utmost luck in your build! I hope your build didn't have nearly the headaches ours has!
My writing and novels:
My Hobbit Fanfiction
My historical novel print and kindle version
My historical novels ebook version compatible with all ereaders
You can also find my novel at most major book retailers online (and for those outside the US who prefer a print book, you can find the print version at Book Depository). Search "Amazing Grace Amanda Longpre'" to find it.
Happy reading everyone!
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SirDennisC
Gondolin
Oct 29 2021, 3:48am
Post #9 of 34
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— which if you look around the boards used to be one of my favourite words, ugh — started is when things became quieter around here. Since I was an early unadopter (dropped my FB account in 2009) it was hard to see so many go there from here. In other words, squire is correct, and I say this unabashedly ;)
Admittedly, I drifted into lurker mode for a good stretch of time, but you’re right to infer that it straight up sucks when you make a thoughtful post or essay and nobody responds or comments. For my part, I am sorry. Still I am encouraged by view counts, assuming they aren’t owing to spiders—as if they would dare encroach on the spiritual home of Sting, et al!
Yet with all its quirks, this is still my preferred place, actually the only place, apart from email, to speak with my online friends. Hopefully messages boards, this message board in particular, will enjoy the same resurgence that radio has, at least among sensible folk.
Now to Cirashala, your situation does tug at the heart strings. Everything is ridiculously overpriced compared to income anymore. You and your family are remembered in our prayers.
Edit to add: I wonder if TORn might host a moot via Zoom? That would be interesting :)
(This post was edited by SirDennisC on Oct 29 2021, 4:03am)
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grammaboodawg
Elvenhome
Oct 29 2021, 3:50pm
Post #10 of 34
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Lot of influences already mentioned
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It absolutely is nothing personal when our posts aren't responded to. I'm so glad you've said something and not feel like you're not valued :) For me, time is a huge factor... and that's just trying to visit only 2 Boards (Main/Off Topic).
After over 20 years and the Movies not drawing as many newbies, it's not surprising to me that our town is a little sleepy recently. And those who have been here for many Winters have established a rhythm of engagement, so to speak. At least that's how I find my activity. I've slowed down, but my loyalty and endearment for TORn and all of our population are nearest and dearest to my heart... and always will be even if I'm not as active. I rarely even get into my email anymore ;)
Plus, a very huge factor is that my brain isn't cooperating all the time ;) I cannot always sort out what I want to say or remember things clearly. I'm doing great!!!! But it's like running a marathon and barely leaving the driveway. Lots of effort with minimal results ;) So it's a bit of a concern about making mistakes or not putting together what I want to say or do as well as I know I should be or have in the past.
So don't give up on us :D The lights will always be on here at TORn... just not all them in every room all the time ;)
*hugs*
We have been there and back again.
Join the "Tolkien Fandom Oral History Project"
TIME Google Calendar
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Eruonen
Gondolin
Oct 29 2021, 4:01pm
Post #11 of 34
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I put a poll out regarding Wheel of Time.....and one option was I have not read it.....45 views....remove 2 of mine and Otaku 1....42 people viewed the poll and did not select any of the options. Seems odd to me but I see that across many other posts too.
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Ataahua
Forum Admin
/ Moderator
Oct 29 2021, 7:28pm
Post #13 of 34
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Yep, similar to how it was a few years after ROTK came out but before the Hobbit news was announced.
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I doubt we'll ever return to the crazy days of the LOTR movies as there are many more digital platforms to indulge in fandom now than there were 20 years ago. But the boards will get busier again as the Amazon TV show nears and we have actual information to discuss.
Celebrimbor: "Pretty rings..."
Dwarves: "Pretty rings..."
Men: "Pretty rings..."
Sauron: "Mine's better."
"Ah, how ironic, the addictive qualities of Sauron’s master weapon led to its own destruction. Which just goes to show, kids - if you want two small and noble souls to succeed on a mission of dire importance... send an evil-minded beggar with them too." - Gandalf's Diaries, final par, by Ufthak.
Fantasy novel - The Arcanist's Tattoo
My LOTR fan-fiction
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FrogmortonJustice65
Menegroth
Oct 31 2021, 6:09pm
Post #15 of 34
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...is slowly gobbling up forums like these and taking over the role that forums such as this used to serve. Which is sad, because the quality of discourse on this website is much higher than Reddit.
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ElanorTX
Dor-Lomin
Oct 31 2021, 10:36pm
Post #16 of 34
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although it is handy for small offbeat topics
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such as following the news from Nunavut in Canada (this vegetarian has now learned why eating bear paws is unsafe)
"I shall not wholly fail if anything can still grow fair in days to come."
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Felagund
Nargothrond
Nov 1 2021, 3:23pm
Post #17 of 34
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It's a very fair observation and one which crosses my mind, from time to time. As set out by others here, there are lots of reasons, including lots of other important things going on in people's lives, and the possibility that this type of platform is becoming something of an artefact.
I want to be clear though that it's an artefact I still treasure! And thinking about Reddit, sure, that's a beast of a platform but my hope is that there's room for Reddit and the more niche outlets for things Middle-earth like ours. Also, even when there aren't many comments, I massively appreciate the 'views' I get on whatever it is I'm scribbling about. We have an awesome community here, regardless of whether it runs into the thousands or hundreds at any given moment in time. And an important sign of that is this thread - it's confirmed, yet again, for me that there are people who care deeply about what happens here :)
Welcome to the Mordorfone network, where we put the 'hai' back into Uruk
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Alveric
Menegroth
Nov 1 2021, 5:36pm
Post #18 of 34
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this is really the only place where I join in fandom. I was obliged to get a facebook account for work reasons but I've resolutely refused to do anything with it. For various reasons, including: it's ugly.
I have gone to some of the Tolkien events at Dragoncon. I've joined the Tolkien Society. But allow me to quote my current draft of the preface to my (never-ending, perhaps literally) book project, where I thank various people. "As much as I might think I know about the works of Tolkien, I have repeatedly been humbled by the fannish scholars and scholarly fans who post to the forums of the One Ring.net. Especially those going by the names [I list some names]. When we hear so much about internet trolls, online abuse and so on, it's worth acknowledging an online space of good humor, erudition, and generosity."
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Ataahua
Forum Admin
/ Moderator
Nov 1 2021, 7:55pm
Post #19 of 34
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When we hear so much about internet trolls, online abuse and so on, it's worth acknowledging an online space of good humor, erudition, and generosity."
TORN is where I can relax online - a space that's free of the slings and arrows we have to deal with elsewhere. And the board members are as weird as I am. 
Celebrimbor: "Pretty rings..."
Dwarves: "Pretty rings..."
Men: "Pretty rings..."
Sauron: "Mine's better."
"Ah, how ironic, the addictive qualities of Sauron’s master weapon led to its own destruction. Which just goes to show, kids - if you want two small and noble souls to succeed on a mission of dire importance... send an evil-minded beggar with them too." - Gandalf's Diaries, final par, by Ufthak.
Fantasy novel - The Arcanist's Tattoo
My LOTR fan-fiction
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Asger
Ossiriand
Nov 2 2021, 5:01pm
Post #20 of 34
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Whaddaya mean ‘as weird as I’?
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I’m sure I’m a lot weirder!  I’m actually a Troll, not an internet-troll but a genuine living beneath a rock-troll. The only normal thing about me is the spaceship in my frontyard.
Well, the board never lets me upload pics, så you just have to take my word for it. I too really enjoy the forum and love the relaxed tone, even if I don’t post so much.
"Don't take life seriously, it ain't nohow permanent!" Pogo
www.willy-centret.dk
(This post was edited by Asger on Nov 2 2021, 5:07pm)
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Asger
Ossiriand
Nov 2 2021, 5:10pm
Post #21 of 34
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It got attached, I’m the troll to the right besides the flying saucer, called SM4, which is 4.5 meter in diameter
"Don't take life seriously, it ain't nohow permanent!" Pogo
www.willy-centret.dk
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Ataahua
Forum Admin
/ Moderator
Nov 2 2021, 7:15pm
Post #22 of 34
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Did you build that? How long did it take?
Celebrimbor: "Pretty rings..."
Dwarves: "Pretty rings..."
Men: "Pretty rings..."
Sauron: "Mine's better."
"Ah, how ironic, the addictive qualities of Sauron’s master weapon led to its own destruction. Which just goes to show, kids - if you want two small and noble souls to succeed on a mission of dire importance... send an evil-minded beggar with them too." - Gandalf's Diaries, final par, by Ufthak.
Fantasy novel - The Arcanist's Tattoo
My LOTR fan-fiction
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Asger
Ossiriand
Nov 2 2021, 8:40pm
Post #23 of 34
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Well, I started in these days in 2010...
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...and it's not finished yet. You can follow the construction on our website:
http://www.wenneberg.dk/Comics/Willy/undersider/Willycentret/akadamiet/AsgersSM4projekt.html
The spaceship is from the classic Danish comicstrip 'Willy på eventyr' from 1956-77 which my friends and I have republished, There's a long story to tell about that strip, which won't fit in here, except there's a few bits of the action that's inspired by LotR, more about that at another time.
My friend Jan Wenneberg is currently building a 7 meter model of an Eagle from 'Space 1999'
"Don't take life seriously, it ain't nohow permanent!" Pogo
www.willy-centret.dk
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Ataahua
Forum Admin
/ Moderator
Nov 2 2021, 11:41pm
Post #24 of 34
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See? This is the stuff I love.
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I get to hang out with people whose fandom fuels their creativity. Just brilliant.
(BTW I remember watching Space 1999 when I was a kidlet - great show.)
Celebrimbor: "Pretty rings..."
Dwarves: "Pretty rings..."
Men: "Pretty rings..."
Sauron: "Mine's better."
"Ah, how ironic, the addictive qualities of Sauron’s master weapon led to its own destruction. Which just goes to show, kids - if you want two small and noble souls to succeed on a mission of dire importance... send an evil-minded beggar with them too." - Gandalf's Diaries, final par, by Ufthak.
Fantasy novel - The Arcanist's Tattoo
My LOTR fan-fiction
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