An appreciation of unsung diarists
For days I've been tempted to compose a parody of a deliciously manipulative metadiary as written by a would-be FPer. Instead, I'll put my energies to better use by writing about some of the less showy diarists who are on my subscription list. I don't mean the people whose posts regularly shoot straight onto the RD list, often justifiably. I've just been inspired (by recent maudlin spectacles, if you must ask) to throw some bouquets in the direction of diarists who've long impressed me and who, I think, deserve a wider readership than they already have. Tastes vary, so it seems, but I'd urge you to check these fine diarists out if you haven't already.
Some metanotes first: I have a huge blindspot for names that consist of initials and the like. I often read them, but just can't keep straight who is who. Grossly unfair, but there it is. Also, I read in the evenings more often than at rush hour, so there are lots of things I rarely catch.
Please add your own favorites from your subscription list (no self-nominations). I'm especially interested in the diarists who deserve about ten times as much attention as they actually get. Also, don't recommend this diary. And don't you dare say I'm underappreciated; that will earn a quick troll-rating. I'm not grandstanding (ok, my wife says I am but what does she know).
Lapin: a mainstay of dKos, this consistently outstanding contributor is surprisingly underappreciated. Lapin is perhaps the "Boxer" of our community's pool of reporters. Here is a characteristically good post: CIA Reveals 'Interrogation' Techniques (Slim Shady Official TortureTool)
Cedwyn: again, a long series of good reports, as well as an excellent eye for the offbeat. Most of her diaries sparkle with wit. Cedwyn also has her own blog, which deserves to get a lot more traffic. Here is a typically excellent offering: They Just Don't Get It.
Lupin: used to post more, I think, before moving to France. I'd love to see Lupin post more diaries anyhow, they usually reveal an interesting perspective and are thoughtfully written. Revisit this fine diary on a topic that nobody else here thought of commemorating: 30th Anniversary of Franco's Death
Melvin: a lot of sharp diaries on a wide range of topics, most of them somewhat off the beaten path. You'll want to subscribe, no doubt about it. Here's one I liked: Who Would Baby Jesus Fire?
I also have a soft spot for Tiggers thotful spot, who has been posting less regularly of late but is always worth a look. Incisive, well-informed, and usually witty, Tigger's diaries often have a long perspective. Here's one example:
Petroleum: our wisdom cannot be misunderestimated
I'm being told to surrender the computer, so I'll stop at only a handful. There are plenty of great diarists who deserve many more comments than they often receive. I'd like to hear your thoughts about some more names to add to my subscription list. I hope I haven't embarrassed any of the above diarists by associating their good names with my own.