Monday, December 30, 2013

#themfuckinghastags

Nothing against hashtags really, except when they are being brutally misused, like the above, it really does tick a bone in me. Never really thought about it, don't know why I feel compelled to comment on it all of a sudden.
I know I have never been one to concoct or feel the urge to concoct a non-existent or entirely DIY kinda hashtag- most I have seen include everything from your mum's full name to pseudo intellectual bites to quote-worthy nuggets of wisdom (which sometimes is really not), to anything for the sole purpose of amusement, and most cases- self-amusement than the actual intended usuage of a hashtag, which is quite magical actually. Yeah, the occasional on-point, funny and purposeful hashtag whose channel may well only have that one or two pictures is fine, but to go on and on and on with a slew of  rubbish, self-indulgent, worthless yapping that don't mean anything or contribute to anything concrete to the virtual space, which as it is already so saturated, just seems egotistical, pointless, vacuous and really- a aggregation of white noise that we can surely do without. The attempt at humour, entertainment or drama is one thing but what is irreprehensible is when they are being grossly misused as guilty 'coverups' or elements of redemption for certain actions or speech. For instance, adding #justsaying, or #shamelessselfie or #therealdeal tagged alongside factual manifestations, as if these convenient string of words will magically render, validate, or emphasise what was put out. The psychology at play is really what's interesting. The user puts his 'true' self out, but does not want to seem blatant about it, for fear of thwarting his public image or offending people, so he protects his ego/himself by playing it down/up with the hashtags, which work to either soften or heighten the blow (depending on intentions and context). It is, but in fact, a hugely self-affirming, hypocritical and cowardice act in my opinion. You can say what you wish to say in the hash tag as non hash tags, that's all I am trying to say. Why the need to segregate? Pivotal ones that hit the bull's eye, yes, served hot and at junctures, they work. But not every single fuckin thought or smart alek remark deserves it. Save it for more important, beneficial and substantial matters.

P.S Can someone impose a bandwidth on hashtags? Or moderate the acceptable hashtags that count? Please.

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