So why bother to answer?? (Estelyn's Rant)

[Estelyn Telcontar]

The Books is for advanced discussions of Middle-earth.

This forum now has 39(!) pages; some of the topics are very interesting, some more humorous, some quite challenging to read. It's my favorite place to go, but I am finding a category of posts that is increasingly annoying me! It is the "answer that is none" post. Here's what I mean:

A question is asked - easy, difficult, book-related, speculative - it doesn't matter. Invariably, there will be a post saying:

"I don't know, because I haven't read that book yet."
"I have no idea what you guys are talking about."
"I wish I knew, but I don't."
"Wow, this is an interesting question, but I don't know either."

I am all in favor of honest questions because someone wants to learn from the "experts". I have absolutely nothing against answers such as:

"I know there's a reference, but I haven't got it right now - I will get back as soon as I find it."
"This is such an interesting question that you have started me thinking about it."
"I laughed so hard reading your post!"
"This is my opinion, though I have nothing from the books to prove it."

Those are answers that say something! But why tell us all if you know nothing and have nothing to say? Even a fool would be thought wise if he would keep his mouth closed, the Bible says somewhere. (I don't have the exact words and reference right now, but if I find them, I will post them here! [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] )

Looking forward to enjoying many interesting and substantial posts...

[ July 26, 2002: Message edited by: Estelyn Telcontar ]