Subject: Re: [FFML] [FFML][STEAMFIC] DR. THINKER VS. LURKER
From: Nicholas Leifker
Date: 12/15/1997, 11:25 AM
To: winkstwo@mail.sssnet.com
CC: EternalLostLurker@worldnet.att.net, Fan-Fiction Mailing List <fanfic@fanfic.com>

Dr. Thinker, I personally find your name to be quite ironic.  

You see, the one thing I've seen from you on this case is a complete
LACK of rational thought.  Although... I must be honest: chances are,
you're going to make WW and Tybalt do some revisions on the FAQ, as
you've broken some basic rules of netiquette, rules which shouldn't even
have to be spelled out.  

Lesson #1: You do not write a work in which you destroy someone who
disagrees with you, even if it is meant in jest.  Personally, I didn't
find anything to laugh at.  People have gone to jail for similar
stunts.  If you can't be trusted while being here, then perhaps you
shouldn't be here.

Lesson #2: I don't know what Lurker said in response to your work.  I do
know that he's one of the best MSTers out there, and also a talented
writer.  If he was giving you some suggestions as to how to improve the
work, then it might be a good idea to listen.
There is a dangerous line that is oftentimes walked in a MSTing.  It is
all too easy to get too caught up in ridicule of the work, and start
going into fullbore insults.  If that is what happened, sir, this is not
the way to respond.  

I don't know if Tybalt has responded to this already; there's a
several-hour lag time between FFML messages for me.  However, I
recommend you go back and think about what you just did, and how your
work and your behavior could be construed by others.  Personally, I'd
recommend a one to six month banning from the ML for this - not enough
that you be kicked off permanently, but enough time for you to learn
what proper netiquette is.

-- Nick