TV's Molly McGarrett caught up with the latest blogger to chronicle the Duke scene, the so-called "Duke observer." From his perch at www.dukeobsrvr.livejournal.com, the anonymous student responded via e-mail about his popular postings.
Why did you start this blog?
It started as a joke, and still is a joke. Nothing I have written is serious, and my only "serious" point is that everyone at Duke takes themselves WAY too seriously. I am funny, deal with it.
What do you think of the student reaction, especially among students in fraternities and sororities?
Amazing, hilarious, pathetic? Take your pick or use all three. Honestly you can really stereotype groups of 100 girls. Those who have not commented calling me "very perceptive" or "right on" have attempted to fling as much poo at me as possible, which I believe only illustrates the point that they take me, and themselves, far too seriously. Oh ya, and that's funny.
Do you really believe what you write, or is it mostly for shock value?
Think of a Friar's Club Roast, mixed with the Daily Show, and a little bit of South Park. I exaggerate, I stereotype, and I'm a little mean, so what it's a joke, and the only people who take this seriously are the ones who write comments. Since when has comedy NOT been a bit offensive? Dukeobsrvr's blind faith in his ability to judge, insult and typecast is part of the joke and the point.
Do you worry about being exposed? Or do you plan on revealing yourself at some point?
I guess I am slightly worried, but anonymity serves a larger purpose than protection. It eliminates bias, and it's why everyone cares. If you knew who I was you would write this off as some attempt to further my agenda, whether that be glorify my frat, slander another or a bitter attack on the system as a whole. I want to be funny, but I want to be fair. Pick on one, pick on everyone. As far as revealing myself, I have not made up my mind yet. I think the iron is a little too hot to make any decisions just yet.
How long do you plan to continue?
Not sure. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't make some sort of pledge to leave it at that, but everyone seems to want to keep reading. I guess it will probably keep going until either people lose interest or I cross a line so far that I somehow get shutdown. Who knows though, maybe I will stop tomorrow.
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