Another Gather Fairy Tale

Once upon a time, in a kingdom known as The Internet, there dwelt a quaint village called Gather. Now, this place wasn’t very large as such villages go, but it touted itself as a community with higher ideals.

The leader of this village, known only as The Crone, was proud of the smallness and exclusivity. In her mind, it was only for those that considered themselves “serious” inhabitants only.  In the beginning, those who were not fitting within this ideal were largely ignored.

 
 But alas, as most small environs in The Kingdom discovered, growth must happen and revenue must be made. The doors of the village of Gather were made wide for those of differing backgrounds than the original Gatherers. Thus began the influx of those who were Agents of Bzz, Jokesters, Writers of Middling Talent (as they were judged), and The Recipe Sharers.

This mass infusion angered and saddened the Crone and her Minions. They ignored the Kingdom’s mission which was “Gather is a place for you to connect with people who share your passions. It's a place where you can contribute thought, art, commentary, or inspiration. We will reward you for all the great things you will share with others in your communities of interest. And together, we think we will create a pretty special place to hang out online.” Nowhere in The Kingdom’s message was a decree that all who write must follow the Crone’s pronouncement that the village was for those with only solemn purpose.

They began a campaign of visiting these new villagers and leaving remarks with hurtful connotations, though they claimed this was not their intent. Several minions decided they would like to see several of the villagers off themselves in a suicide pact, but this was not to be.

The new villagers, chagrined by this hatred disguised as satire, decided that banding together would be their best hope against the evil. In this, they were mistaken.

What had started out as embers, became an all consuming conflagration- burning all. Gather was now divided as never before. No one on either side was willing to honestly meet the other halfway in resolving the disputes. Many of the new villagers who had once thought of some older members fondly, had seen enough, and decided to join with others of like minds: that Gather was a place for all, regardless of talent or content. (Although they all agreed that Spam in any part of the community was not acceptable). However, they were disappointed indeed.

Sadly, children, this fairy tale does not have a happy ending. No one lives happily ever after.

And thus, the war rages on……