I recently ran across a thread on Reddit
that asked this question: “Can we all appreciate David Attenborough for
making great documentaries for over than half a century while he is
still with us?”
I'm a fan of David Attenborough. I've
enjoyed his documentaries, and his narration style in particular. The
tone of hushed excitement he can generate over the mating dance of some
bird in southeast Asia is sheer artistry.
But the
question pissed me off, because it's based on a lie. It implies that
Attenborough has seen little or no recognition in his life. This is
bullshit. His life is just chock full of adulation and appreciation.
He's famous and wealthy and successful. He doesn't fucking NEED another
drop of appreciation.
Meanwhile, all over the world
are artists, writers, musicians, scientists and engineers who are doing
original, groundbreaking and creative work who, outside a small coterie
of fans, NOBODY HAD EVER HEARD OF. They've had BUPKIS of appreciation.
What
people like the OP who created the David Attenborough thread (who
apparently have appreciation to spare) should really do is find one of
those unknown creators and ask for appreciation on their behalf. They
need our recognition. Attenborough needs zip from us.
(And
yes, I'm one of those writers who is totally unknown outside his tiny
little niche of kinky humorous science fiction erotica writers, a niche
so small it should actually be called a “dimple on a golf ball.” But I
have hope, and faith. Someday I'll have far more recognition than I
deserve, and people will actually want to give me more extra
appreciation, even if it means depriving other writers and artists who
are a lot less well known any appreciation at all. But if this never
happens, despite my disappointment I shall remains strong, because what I
really want is lots of money.)
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