John-Keats.com Allowing Nonsense In Their Forums!!!

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 02:26 PM

While perusing the forums of John-Keats.com, a website devoted to the great Romantic poet, I came across some posts related to astrology. To my utter dismay, these presumably intelligent people seem to buy into that gibberish. The following, for example, was posted by no less than a Moderator (proving that Mods are the same wherever you go):

Quote:

That's a pretty cool website! And the Keats profile was pretty much right on, in my estimation. I remember back in college, I had a roommate who owned a book on astrology and as an example of the quintessential Scorpio, they listed--of all people--our man Keats. He really fits the Scorpio profile to a T.

As if that wasn't bad enough, even the Forum Administrator, who goes by the name Saturn, acceded to the degeneracy.

Piqued, I registered under the handle ChildeHarold80 and posted the following:

Quote:

I hope Malia, Saturn, and AsphodelElysium are aware that, since the signs of the Zodiac were drawn up in the second century A.D. by Ptolemy (the same infallible authority behind the Ptolemaic system which said that the Earth was at the center of the universe), the earth's rotational axis has shifted by some 30 degrees. Thus, the signs commonly used in horoscopes are off by at least a month. They are also insufficient: there should be 13, rather than 12.

In any case, there is absolutely no evidence that the positions of the planets at the time of one's birth have any effect whatsoever on one's personality or fate. By what mechanism, I ask you, could information be related from planet to earthling? Gravity, at such distances, is far too weak to be relevant. All planets, including earth, shine by reflected sunlight, so light is out of the question.

Finally, it is demeaning to arbitrarily divide humanity into twelve separate categories. Is there a substantial difference between asserting differences in temperament between two persons, just because one was born in June and the other in November, and asserting that blacks and whites are inherently different because of their skin colors?

I must state my opinion in full. I believe it is shameful to associate the name and legacy of a great man like Keats with this facile superstition.

In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude."

This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section.

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 02:36 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude."

Sounds about right to me. "Abomination?" "Affront to literature?"

You should try to relax a little; that would be my advise.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 02:44 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

Sounds about right to me. "Abomination?" "Affront to literature?"

You should try to relax a little; that would be my advise.

What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth!

I ask you, fellow skeptics, will you be Neville Chamberlains or will you be Churchills?

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 02:52 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too?

Yes, you do, because you're acting like a hysterical idiot. But I like how you compare yelling at some astrologers on a Keats forum to Churchill's stand against the Nazis. Seriously, I do; it's absolutely adorable.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 02:58 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

Yes, you do, because you're acting like a hysterical idiot. But I like how you compare yelling at some astrologers on a Keats forum to Churchill's stand against the Nazis. Seriously, I do; it's absolutely adorable.

It was a metaphor. I made no direct comparison between myself and Churchill. Your unfamiliarity with the use of figurative language, and your apathy in the face of the debauch and profanation of a website devoted to one of our greatest poets, makes evident your contempt for literature. I feel sorry for you.

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 03:03 PM

Of course you do. Sort of like the 9/11 nut who feels bad for the people who believe the official story, and the Christian fundamentalist who feels sorry for me because I refuse to see his version of the truth.

I don't feel sorry for you, but I do notice that you get hysterical over stupid things, and I think your life might be happier if you tried to control that. That's all.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 03:07 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

Of course you do. Sort of like the 9/11 nut who feels bad for the people who believe the official story.

A most inappropriate analogy.

Quote:

I don't feel sorry for you, but I do notice that you get hysterical over stupid things, and I think your life might be happier if you learned some priorities.

Happiness is not the point of existence. And how on earth can it be considered "stupid" to get upset over the idea of the unhallowed specter of Inanity dancing on the grave of John Keats?

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 03:08 PM

No; the point of existence is screaming at people about astrology on Keats forums. So go to it, big boy!

-Fran- · 15th September 2007, 03:10 PM

Hmm... though I can understand your frustration, is it really that very surprising that believers in astrology also like poetry? I mean, a bit of newage in such circles are not really all that surprising.

Hey, and who are you to talk, you will pretend to believe in astrology just to get a girl in bed.

Why, here's a golden opportunity, imagine how many of those you can land in bed if you agree with them?

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 03:32 PM

Originally Posted by -Fran-

Hmm... though I can understand your frustration, is it really that very surprising that believers in astrology also like poetry? I mean, a bit of newage in such circles are not really all that surprising.

It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable.

Quote:

Hey, and who are you to talk, you will pretend to believe in astrology just to get a girl in bed.

That's different. We're talking about Poetry here, not the importunate urges of temporal existence.

Quote:

Why, here's a golden opportunity, imagine how many of those you can land in bed if you agree with them?

I don't know, most of them are probably fat and unattractive.

-Fran- · 15th September 2007, 03:47 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable.

If you say so

Originally Posted by clerihew80

That's different. We're talking about Poetry here, not the importunate urges of temporal existence.

If you say so

Originally Posted by clerihew80

I don't know, most of them are probably fat and unattractive.

Yes, probably, and the poor things are totally missing out on god's gift to women too, how sad

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 03:53 PM

Originally Posted by -Fran-

Yes, probably, and the poor things are totally missing out on god's gift to women too, how sad

I never said that I was "god's gift to women." First of all, I don't believe in god. Second, I am well aware of my limitations.

This is typical of my experience on the internet. All kinds of things are attributed to me which I give no countenance to.

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 03:57 PM

Well, buck up Winston! So, nobody's taking you seriously. Don't get downhearted; you need to expect setbacks. After all, you must not underrate the gravity of the task which lies before you or the temerity of the ordeal, to which you shall not be found unequal. You must expect many disappointments, and many unpleasant surprises, but you may be sure that the task which you have freely accepted is one not beyond the compass and the strength of the atheist and skeptical community.

-Fran- · 15th September 2007, 04:04 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

I never said that I was "god's gift to women." First of all, I don't believe in god. Second, I am well aware of my limitations.

This is typical of my experience on the internet. All kinds of things are attributed to me which I give no countenance to.

Who believes in god? But you can't really be especially surprised about that some of your comments will generate certain reactions? That would be naive beyond belief.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 04:11 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

After all, you must not underrate the gravity of the task which lies before you or the temerity of the ordeal, to which you shall not be found unequal.

Are you sure "temerity" is the word you want here? "Temerity" means "reckless boldness," or "rashness."

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 04:19 PM

Yes, I'm sure. The whole post is a joke of sorts, although I admit it's a pretty damn obscure one.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 04:25 PM

Joke or not, you still have to choose the proper word. I see no other malapropisms in the post, so I assume it was a discrepancy, rather than a deliberate attempt at humorous misuse.

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 04:27 PM

I didn't choose the word; that's the joke.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 05:18 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

I didn't choose the word; that's the joke.

I agree. The joke is obscure - to the point of incomprehensibility.

fuelair · 15th September 2007, 05:34 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

While perusing the forums of John-Keats.com, a website devoted to the great Romantic poet, I came across some posts related to astrology. To my utter dismay, these presumably intelligent people seem to buy into that gibberish. The following, for example, was posted by no less than a Moderator (proving that Mods are the same wherever you go):

As if that wasn't bad enough, even the Forum Administrator, who goes by the name Saturn, acceded to the degeneracy.

Piqued, I registered under the handle ChildeHarold80 and posted the following:
In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude."

This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section.

Their forum, their rules. If you want to complain, complain to the forum/web site OWNERS. Oh wow, deja vu all over again - I feel like I have seen a complaint just like this somewhere else!!! Where could that have been???!!!

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 05:37 PM

Originally Posted by fuelair

Their forum, their rules. If you want to complain, complain to the forum/web site OWNERS. Oh wow, deja vu all over again - I feel like I have seen a complaint just like this somewhere else!!! Where could that have been???!!!

I did complain to the owners. Did you not read my post?

Miss Anthrope · 15th September 2007, 05:43 PM

Yes, why the post here about their forum?

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 05:46 PM

So what, exactly, did you think should have happened? Should they have censored the posts in question because you don't believe in astrology or ... what?

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 05:47 PM

Originally Posted by Miss Anthrope

Yes, why the post here about their forum?

What do you mean, "why the post here"? Because I thought that skeptics would be interested in an abuse of reason and culture. I guess I was wrong.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 05:48 PM

Originally Posted by Gregory

So what, exactly, did you think should have happened? Should they have censored the posts in question because you don't believe in astrology or ... what?

I HAVE NEVER CALLED FOR CENSORSHIP

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 05:59 PM

For anybody who cares, here is, in its entirety, the horrific

Originally Posted by AsphodelElysium

I actually kinda, sorta created a Keats sighting. I was surfing the net the other night and I came across a website that does astrological profiles of famous and historical figures. They didn't have Keats on their list, so I requested a profile. I got an email and the forum thanked me for the suggestion however because Keats was born before 1800 their system couldn't produce a report. Then they wrote, "However, let's just do his astrological profile for the sake of greatness and... Scorpios." So...here it is. Very Happy

http://famous-relationships.topsynergy.com/John_Keats/

I put in a request for Fanny as well. We'll see what happens. Very Happy

Originally Posted by Malia

That's a pretty cool website! And the Keats profile was pretty much right on, in my estimation. I remember back in college, I had a roommate who owned a book on astrology and as an example of the quintessential Scorpio, they listed--of all people--our man Keats. He really fits the Scorpio profile to a T.

Originally Posted by Saturn

I did this horoscope test thingy on Facebook and apparently I'm nothing like a Libran

Originally Posted by Malia

Maybe it depends on what "house" your in--etc. I have a friend who does readings and he says it is necessary to know the hour (even the minute) of your birth--not just the day and the year--in order to get an accurate reading. I certainly don't know all the details, however. I am a pretty good example of a Libra. I certainly weigh everything I do before I make any decisions (makes my Gemini sister-in-law crazy Laughing ). I don't know if I'm as romantic as they say Libras are, but well, maybe I just haven't found that special someone yet Wink

Originally Posted by Saturn

I'm trying to loosen my obsession with horoscopes; I try not to read them anymore so I'm not too bothered - I'm not typical in anything never mind a typical libran Laughing

So you're a fellow Libran Malia when is your Birthday?

Originally Posted by ChildeHarold80

I hope Malia, Saturn, and AsphodelElysium are aware that, since the signs of the Zodiac were drawn up in the second century A.D. by Ptolemy (the same infallible authority behind the Ptolemaic system which said that the Earth was at the center of the universe), the earth's rotational axis has shifted by some 30 degrees. Thus, the signs commonly used in horoscopes are off by at least a month. They are also insufficient: there should be 13, rather than 12.

In any case, there is absolutely no evidence that the positions of the planets at the time of one's birth have any effect whatsoever on one's personality or fate. By what mechanism, I ask you, could information be related from planet to earthling? Gravity, at such distances, is far too weak to be relevant. All planets, including earth, shine by reflected sunlight, so light is out of the question.

Finally, it is demeaning to arbitrarily divide humanity into twelve separate categories. Is there a substantial difference between asserting differences in temperament between two persons, just because one was born in June and the other in November, and asserting that blacks and whites are inherently different because of their skin colors?

I must state my opinion in full. I believe it is shameful to associate the name and legacy of a great man like Keats with this facile superstition.

Originally Posted by Saturn

**Opens envelope**

"^^Okay, and the award for most provocative first post goes to..."

That is not the way to endear yourself to anyone on your first post.

ChildeHarold80 don't have a cow dude Rolling Eyes

We're only having a discussion, you know a jest, a conversation, one of those things where not everything is serious.

This is like a coffee shop, not a University lecture hall.
Rolling Eyes

Sure we have serious discussions sometimes but not all the time.
I don't get where you came up with the idea that anyone was associating Keats with astrology. If you read the whole thread there are many twists and turns and people go from idea to the next, you know how conversations happen...

You are very welcome to this site and I look forward to reading your views but lighten up dude Razz

Don't take everything so seriously.

Originally Posted by clerihew80

I HAVE NEVER CALLED FOR CENSORSHIP

Don't have a cow, dude.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 06:08 PM

If you not offended by that exchange, Gregory, then what are you even doing here? Why don't you join the gosylviabrowne forum? They'll love you and your idiosyncratic sense of humor over there.

Gregory · 15th September 2007, 06:15 PM

I recently gave a test to my students, and a surprising number of them thought that (1/x) + 3 equals (4/x). I'm not "offended" by that, either. Most people can hear an incorrect belief without flying off the handle and acting like ... well, you. Your ludicrous attempt to paint only two options, supporting a belief or taking offense at it, is a false dichotomy.

jsfisher · 15th September 2007, 06:26 PM

Let's see. In your opening post you said:

Originally Posted by clerihew80

This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section.

Your outrage to the very existence of the astrology post is clear, and you attempt to incite us to flood the other forum with outrage.

You continue to incite with this:

Originally Posted by clerihew80

What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth!

I ask you, fellow skeptics, will you be Neville Chamberlains or will you be Churchills?

You risk Godwin's Law to emphasize the importance to the free world of stomping out astrology posts.

Later, you add:

Originally Posted by clerihew80

It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable.

By now, you have the crowd stirred to a fever-pitch, eating out of the palm of your hand, ready to march to the four corners of the Internet.

Then, in response to a simple question of why we were the chosen forum, you said:

Originally Posted by clerihew80

What do you mean, "why the post here"? Because I thought that skeptics would be interested in an abuse of reason and culture. I guess I was wrong.

I don't get it. You'd beaten the drums of war louder and louder, then, out of left field, you tell us this was all an FYI? I just don't get it.

-Fran- · 15th September 2007, 07:13 PM

From this thread:
http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=93107&page=2

Originally Posted by clerihew80

Hell, in order to get laid, I've told chicks that I believe in astrology.

Originally Posted by -Fran-

And did it work?

Originally Posted by clerihew80

Hard to say. Really, the astrology thing was one small thread in a grand pattern of dissembling.

I will say this: chicks who are into astrology are easy lays.

-----o0o-----

From this thread here:

Originally Posted by clerihew80

What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth!

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 07:29 PM

Do I contradict myself?

Very well then, I contradict myself,

(I am large, I contain multitudes).

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 07:44 PM

Originally Posted by jsfisher

I don't get it. You'd beaten the drums of war louder and louder, then, out of left field, you tell us this was all an FYI? I just don't get it.

I don't see any inconsistency in my posts. I beat no "drums of war." My rhetoric may have been a bit emphatic, but bellicosity is your own personal interpretation. It was not my intention.

jsfisher · 15th September 2007, 07:54 PM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

My rhetoric may have been a bit emphatic,...

Ya think?

Quote:

...but bellicosity is your own personal interpretation. It was not my intention.

We only have your words to gauge your intention. If they belie the meaning you really meant to convey, perhaps you should focus more on your communications skills than your sesquipedalian tendencies.

clerihew80 · 15th September 2007, 08:00 PM

Originally Posted by jsfisher

We only have your words to gauge your intention. If they belie the meaning you really meant to convey, perhaps you should focus more on your communications skills than your sesquipedalian tendencies.

Actually, I'm quite happy with my writing style. And where have I used large words where smaller words will do?

fuelair · 16th September 2007, 12:02 AM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

Do I contradict myself?

Very well then, I contradict myself,

(I am large, I contain multitudes).

No, you are not. Very small, containing infinitissimal nematodes.

The Atheist · 16th September 2007, 02:00 AM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

Actually, I'm quite happy with my writing style. And where have I used large words where smaller words will do?

Originally Posted by clerihew80

...transitioning ...

QED

brodski · 16th September 2007, 02:12 AM

Originally Posted by clerihew80

I agree. The joke is obscure - to the point of incomprehensibility.

I found it funny. Perhaps you should brush up on your Churchill, if that is who you wish to compare yourself to.

clerihew80 · 16th September 2007, 02:56 AM

Originally Posted by The Atheist

QED

Jesus, you had to dig up a post from months ago? Pathetic. OK, what word should I have used, rather than "transitioning"?

This is ridiculous. You people are insufferable.

clerihew80 · 16th September 2007, 03:03 AM

Churchill was a fat, belligerent racist.

clerihew80 · 16th September 2007, 03:04 AM

Now more than ever seems it rich to die

15th September 2007, 02:26 PM	#1
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	John-Keats.com Allowing Nonsense In Their Forums!!! While perusing the forums of John-Keats.com, a website devoted to the great Romantic poet, I came across some posts related to astrology. To my utter dismay, these presumably intelligent people seem to buy into that gibberish. The following, for example, was posted by no less than a Moderator (proving that Mods are the same wherever you go): Quote: That's a pretty cool website! And the Keats profile was pretty much right on, in my estimation. I remember back in college, I had a roommate who owned a book on astrology and as an example of the quintessential Scorpio, they listed--of all people--our man Keats. He really fits the Scorpio profile to a T. As if that wasn't bad enough, even the Forum Administrator, who goes by the name Saturn, acceded to the degeneracy. Piqued, I registered under the handle ChildeHarold80 and posted the following: Quote: I hope Malia, Saturn, and AsphodelElysium are aware that, since the signs of the Zodiac were drawn up in the second century A.D. by Ptolemy (the same infallible authority behind the Ptolemaic system which said that the Earth was at the center of the universe), the earth's rotational axis has shifted by some 30 degrees. Thus, the signs commonly used in horoscopes are off by at least a month. They are also insufficient: there should be 13, rather than 12. In any case, there is absolutely no evidence that the positions of the planets at the time of one's birth have any effect whatsoever on one's personality or fate. By what mechanism, I ask you, could information be related from planet to earthling? Gravity, at such distances, is far too weak to be relevant. All planets, including earth, shine by reflected sunlight, so light is out of the question. Finally, it is demeaning to arbitrarily divide humanity into twelve separate categories. Is there a substantial difference between asserting differences in temperament between two persons, just because one was born in June and the other in November, and asserting that blacks and whites are inherently different because of their skin colors? I must state my opinion in full. I believe it is shameful to associate the name and legacy of a great man like Keats with this facile superstition. In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude." This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 02:36 PM	#2
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Originally Posted by clerihew80 In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude." Sounds about right to me. "Abomination?" "Affront to literature?" You should try to relax a little; that would be my advise.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Last edited by Gregory; 15th September 2007 at 02:38 PM.

15th September 2007, 02:44 PM	#3
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory Sounds about right to me. "Abomination?" "Affront to literature?" You should try to relax a little; that would be my advise. What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth! I ask you, fellow skeptics, will you be Neville Chamberlains or will you be Churchills?
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 02:52 PM	#4
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Originally Posted by clerihew80 What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? Yes, you do, because you're acting like a hysterical idiot. But I like how you compare yelling at some astrologers on a Keats forum to Churchill's stand against the Nazis. Seriously, I do; it's absolutely adorable.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Last edited by Gregory; 15th September 2007 at 02:57 PM.

15th September 2007, 02:58 PM	#5
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory Yes, you do, because you're acting like a hysterical idiot. But I like how you compare yelling at some astrologers on a Keats forum to Churchill's stand against the Nazis. Seriously, I do; it's absolutely adorable. It was a metaphor. I made no direct comparison between myself and Churchill. Your unfamiliarity with the use of figurative language, and your apathy in the face of the debauch and profanation of a website devoted to one of our greatest poets, makes evident your contempt for literature. I feel sorry for you.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 03:03 PM	#6
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Of course you do. Sort of like the 9/11 nut who feels bad for the people who believe the official story, and the Christian fundamentalist who feels sorry for me because I refuse to see his version of the truth. I don't feel sorry for you, but I do notice that you get hysterical over stupid things, and I think your life might be happier if you tried to control that. That's all.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 03:07 PM	#7
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory Of course you do. Sort of like the 9/11 nut who feels bad for the people who believe the official story. A most inappropriate analogy. Quote: I don't feel sorry for you, but I do notice that you get hysterical over stupid things, and I think your life might be happier if you learned some priorities. Happiness is not the point of existence. And how on earth can it be considered "stupid" to get upset over the idea of the unhallowed specter of Inanity dancing on the grave of John Keats?
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Last edited by clerihew80; 15th September 2007 at 03:10 PM.

15th September 2007, 03:08 PM	#8
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	No; the point of existence is screaming at people about astrology on Keats forums. So go to it, big boy!
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 03:10 PM	#9
-Fran- Master Poster Join Date: May 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 2,532	Hmm... though I can understand your frustration, is it really that very surprising that believers in astrology also like poetry? I mean, a bit of newage in such circles are not really all that surprising. Hey, and who are you to talk, you will pretend to believe in astrology just to get a girl in bed. Why, here's a golden opportunity, imagine how many of those you can land in bed if you agree with them?
	__________________ Thank goodness there are such things as lies. Imagine if everything you heard were true! (Albert Engström)

15th September 2007, 03:32 PM	#10
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by -Fran- Hmm... though I can understand your frustration, is it really that very surprising that believers in astrology also like poetry? I mean, a bit of newage in such circles are not really all that surprising. It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable. Quote: Hey, and who are you to talk, you will pretend to believe in astrology just to get a girl in bed. That's different. We're talking about Poetry here, not the importunate urges of temporal existence. Quote: Why, here's a golden opportunity, imagine how many of those you can land in bed if you agree with them? I don't know, most of them are probably fat and unattractive.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 03:47 PM	#11
-Fran- Master Poster Join Date: May 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 2,532	Originally Posted by clerihew80 It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable. If you say so Originally Posted by clerihew80 That's different. We're talking about Poetry here, not the importunate urges of temporal existence. If you say so Originally Posted by clerihew80 I don't know, most of them are probably fat and unattractive. Yes, probably, and the poor things are totally missing out on god's gift to women too, how sad
	__________________ Thank goodness there are such things as lies. Imagine if everything you heard were true! (Albert Engström)

15th September 2007, 03:53 PM	#12
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by -Fran- Yes, probably, and the poor things are totally missing out on god's gift to women too, how sad I never said that I was "god's gift to women." First of all, I don't believe in god. Second, I am well aware of my limitations. This is typical of my experience on the internet. All kinds of things are attributed to me which I give no countenance to.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 03:57 PM	#13
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Well, buck up Winston! So, nobody's taking you seriously. Don't get downhearted; you need to expect setbacks. After all, you must not underrate the gravity of the task which lies before you or the temerity of the ordeal, to which you shall not be found unequal. You must expect many disappointments, and many unpleasant surprises, but you may be sure that the task which you have freely accepted is one not beyond the compass and the strength of the atheist and skeptical community.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 04:04 PM	#14
-Fran- Master Poster Join Date: May 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 2,532	Originally Posted by clerihew80 I never said that I was "god's gift to women." First of all, I don't believe in god. Second, I am well aware of my limitations. This is typical of my experience on the internet. All kinds of things are attributed to me which I give no countenance to. Who believes in god? But you can't really be especially surprised about that some of your comments will generate certain reactions? That would be naive beyond belief.
	__________________ Thank goodness there are such things as lies. Imagine if everything you heard were true! (Albert Engström)

15th September 2007, 04:11 PM	#15
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory After all, you must not underrate the gravity of the task which lies before you or the temerity of the ordeal, to which you shall not be found unequal. Are you sure "temerity" is the word you want here? "Temerity" means "reckless boldness," or "rashness."
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 04:19 PM	#16
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	Yes, I'm sure. The whole post is a joke of sorts, although I admit it's a pretty damn obscure one.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 04:25 PM	#17
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Joke or not, you still have to choose the proper word. I see no other malapropisms in the post, so I assume it was a discrepancy, rather than a deliberate attempt at humorous misuse.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 04:27 PM	#18
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	I didn't choose the word; that's the joke.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 05:18 PM	#19
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory I didn't choose the word; that's the joke. I agree. The joke is obscure - to the point of incomprehensibility.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 05:34 PM	#20
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 18,126	Originally Posted by clerihew80 While perusing the forums of John-Keats.com, a website devoted to the great Romantic poet, I came across some posts related to astrology. To my utter dismay, these presumably intelligent people seem to buy into that gibberish. The following, for example, was posted by no less than a Moderator (proving that Mods are the same wherever you go): As if that wasn't bad enough, even the Forum Administrator, who goes by the name Saturn, acceded to the degeneracy. Piqued, I registered under the handle ChildeHarold80 and posted the following: In response, I was told not to "have a cow, dude." This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section. Their forum, their rules. If you want to complain, complain to the forum/web site OWNERS. Oh wow, deja vu all over again - I feel like I have seen a complaint just like this somewhere else!!! Where could that have been???!!!
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 18,126

15th September 2007, 05:37 PM	#21
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by fuelair Their forum, their rules. If you want to complain, complain to the forum/web site OWNERS. Oh wow, deja vu all over again - I feel like I have seen a complaint just like this somewhere else!!! Where could that have been???!!! I did complain to the owners. Did you not read my post?
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 05:43 PM	#22
Miss Anthrope All your post are belong to us Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: A Tiny Oasis in the PNW Posts: 3,599	Yes, why the post here about their forum?
	__________________ We're not elected officials, nor are we paid professionals. You want us to act as such? Fine. Cough up the cash - because as a professional, I don't come cheap."-Jmercer, who happens to rock.[/color]

15th September 2007, 05:46 PM	#23
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	So what, exactly, did you think should have happened? Should they have censored the posts in question because you don't believe in astrology or ... what?
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 05:47 PM	#24
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Miss Anthrope Yes, why the post here about their forum? What do you mean, "why the post here"? Because I thought that skeptics would be interested in an abuse of reason and culture. I guess I was wrong.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 05:48 PM	#25
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by Gregory So what, exactly, did you think should have happened? Should they have censored the posts in question because you don't believe in astrology or ... what? I HAVE NEVER CALLED FOR CENSORSHIP
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 05:59 PM	#26
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	For anybody who cares, here is, in its entirety, the horrific Originally Posted by AsphodelElysium I actually kinda, sorta created a Keats sighting. I was surfing the net the other night and I came across a website that does astrological profiles of famous and historical figures. They didn't have Keats on their list, so I requested a profile. I got an email and the forum thanked me for the suggestion however because Keats was born before 1800 their system couldn't produce a report. Then they wrote, "However, let's just do his astrological profile for the sake of greatness and... Scorpios." So...here it is. Very Happy http://famous-relationships.topsynergy.com/John_Keats/ I put in a request for Fanny as well. We'll see what happens. Very Happy Originally Posted by Malia That's a pretty cool website! And the Keats profile was pretty much right on, in my estimation. I remember back in college, I had a roommate who owned a book on astrology and as an example of the quintessential Scorpio, they listed--of all people--our man Keats. He really fits the Scorpio profile to a T. Originally Posted by Saturn I did this horoscope test thingy on Facebook and apparently I'm nothing like a Libran Originally Posted by Malia Maybe it depends on what "house" your in--etc. I have a friend who does readings and he says it is necessary to know the hour (even the minute) of your birth--not just the day and the year--in order to get an accurate reading. I certainly don't know all the details, however. I am a pretty good example of a Libra. I certainly weigh everything I do before I make any decisions (makes my Gemini sister-in-law crazy Laughing ). I don't know if I'm as romantic as they say Libras are, but well, maybe I just haven't found that special someone yet Wink Originally Posted by Saturn I'm trying to loosen my obsession with horoscopes; I try not to read them anymore so I'm not too bothered - I'm not typical in anything never mind a typical libran Laughing So you're a fellow Libran Malia when is your Birthday? Originally Posted by ChildeHarold80 I hope Malia, Saturn, and AsphodelElysium are aware that, since the signs of the Zodiac were drawn up in the second century A.D. by Ptolemy (the same infallible authority behind the Ptolemaic system which said that the Earth was at the center of the universe), the earth's rotational axis has shifted by some 30 degrees. Thus, the signs commonly used in horoscopes are off by at least a month. They are also insufficient: there should be 13, rather than 12. In any case, there is absolutely no evidence that the positions of the planets at the time of one's birth have any effect whatsoever on one's personality or fate. By what mechanism, I ask you, could information be related from planet to earthling? Gravity, at such distances, is far too weak to be relevant. All planets, including earth, shine by reflected sunlight, so light is out of the question. Finally, it is demeaning to arbitrarily divide humanity into twelve separate categories. Is there a substantial difference between asserting differences in temperament between two persons, just because one was born in June and the other in November, and asserting that blacks and whites are inherently different because of their skin colors? I must state my opinion in full. I believe it is shameful to associate the name and legacy of a great man like Keats with this facile superstition. Originally Posted by Saturn Opens envelope "^^Okay, and the award for most provocative first post goes to..." That is not the way to endear yourself to anyone on your first post. ChildeHarold80 don't have a cow dude Rolling Eyes We're only having a discussion, you know a jest, a conversation, one of those things where not everything is serious. This is like a coffee shop, not a University lecture hall. Rolling Eyes Sure we have serious discussions sometimes but not all the time. I don't get where you came up with the idea that anyone was associating Keats with astrology. If you read the whole thread there are many twists and turns and people go from idea to the next, you know how conversations happen... You are very welcome to this site and I look forward to reading your views but lighten up dude Razz Don't take everything so seriously. Originally Posted by clerihew80 I HAVE NEVER CALLED FOR CENSORSHIP Don't have a cow, dude.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 06:08 PM	#27
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	If you not offended by that exchange, Gregory, then what are you even doing here? Why don't you join the gosylviabrowne forum? They'll love you and your idiosyncratic sense of humor over there.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 06:15 PM	#28
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687	I recently gave a test to my students, and a surprising number of them thought that (1/x) + 3 equals (4/x). I'm not "offended" by that, either. Most people can hear an incorrect belief without flying off the handle and acting like ... well, you. Your ludicrous attempt to paint only two options, supporting a belief or taking offense at it, is a false dichotomy.
Gregory Muse Join Date: Jul 2003 Posts: 687

15th September 2007, 06:26 PM	#29
jsfisher ETcorngods survivor Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 8,132	Let's see. In your opening post you said: Originally Posted by clerihew80 This is an abomination, an affront to the memory of John Keats and literature itself. I urge my fellow skeptics to visit this website and register their disgust. The thread referred to is titled "Random Keats Sightings" and it's in the "Keats Around The World" section. Your outrage to the very existence of the astrology post is clear, and you attempt to incite us to flood the other forum with outrage. You continue to incite with this: Originally Posted by clerihew80 What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth! I ask you, fellow skeptics, will you be Neville Chamberlains or will you be Churchills? You risk Godwin's Law to emphasize the importance to the free world of stomping out astrology posts. Later, you add: Originally Posted by clerihew80 It should be more than surprising. It should be shocking, intolerable. By now, you have the crowd stirred to a fever-pitch, eating out of the palm of your hand, ready to march to the four corners of the Internet. Then, in response to a simple question of why we were the chosen forum, you said: Originally Posted by clerihew80 What do you mean, "why the post here"? Because I thought that skeptics would be interested in an abuse of reason and culture. I guess I was wrong. I don't get it. You'd beaten the drums of war louder and louder, then, out of left field, you tell us this was all an FYI? I just don't get it.
	__________________ As long as Comparison is sunk in the urine of one's mind, new glasses will not help. --Doronshadmi. *A proud member of the Simpson 15+7, named in the suit, Simpson v. Zwinge, et al., and founder of the ET Corn Gods Survivors Group.* By the way, the Nominate button is to your ~~right~~ left, sort of..

15th September 2007, 07:13 PM	#30
-Fran- Master Poster Join Date: May 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 2,532	From this thread: http://forums.randi.org/showthread.php?t=93107&page=2 Originally Posted by clerihew80 Hell, in order to get laid, I've told chicks that I believe in astrology. Originally Posted by -Fran- And did it work? Originally Posted by clerihew80 Hard to say. Really, the astrology thing was one small thread in a grand pattern of dissembling. I will say this: chicks who are into astrology are easy lays. -----o0o----- From this thread here: Originally Posted by clerihew80 What?! I've got to hear this craven complacency here, too? I will not relax! If need be, I will give birth to twenty cows in the name of truth!
	__________________ Thank goodness there are such things as lies. Imagine if everything you heard were true! (Albert Engström) Last edited by -Fran-; 15th September 2007 at 07:16 PM.

15th September 2007, 07:29 PM	#31
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Do I contradict myself? Very well then, I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes).
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 07:44 PM	#32
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by jsfisher I don't get it. You'd beaten the drums of war louder and louder, then, out of left field, you tell us this was all an FYI? I just don't get it. I don't see any inconsistency in my posts. I beat no "drums of war." My rhetoric may have been a bit emphatic, but bellicosity is your own personal interpretation. It was not my intention.
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

15th September 2007, 07:54 PM	#33
jsfisher ETcorngods survivor Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 8,132	Originally Posted by clerihew80 My rhetoric may have been a bit emphatic,... Ya think? Quote: ...but bellicosity is your own personal interpretation. It was not my intention. We only have your words to gauge your intention. If they belie the meaning you really meant to convey, perhaps you should focus more on your communications skills than your sesquipedalian tendencies.
	__________________ As long as Comparison is sunk in the urine of one's mind, new glasses will not help. --Doronshadmi. *A proud member of the Simpson 15+7, named in the suit, Simpson v. Zwinge, et al., and founder of the ET Corn Gods Survivors Group.* By the way, the Nominate button is to your ~~right~~ left, sort of..

15th September 2007, 08:00 PM	#34
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320	Originally Posted by jsfisher We only have your words to gauge your intention. If they belie the meaning you really meant to convey, perhaps you should focus more on your communications skills than your sesquipedalian tendencies. Actually, I'm quite happy with my writing style. And where have I used large words where smaller words will do?
clerihew80 Guest Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 320

16th September 2007, 12:02 AM	#35
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 18,126	Originally Posted by clerihew80 Do I contradict myself? Very well then, I contradict myself, (I am large, I contain multitudes). No, you are not. Very small, containing infinitissimal nematodes.
fuelair Cythraul Enfys Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 18,126