absolutelyBangkok archive · Being farang
Originally published Nov. 2, 2008
The world got slightly poorer on Nov. 1 with the demise of The Pattaya Ghost, Thailand’s probably youngest and in such a short time most successful farang blog. Bob, the brain behind the ghost, just got tired and — in the manner of the great — closes The Ghost “at the zenith of its popularity.”
Chapeau Bob, what a strength of mind. You were not only successful in creating one of the most entertaining, beautifully designed, informative and innovative Thai blogs. You also master the discipline to set priorities, as closing down The Ghost involves substantial changes in lifestyle.
We the pathetic are only talking about it, but you’re all set to shape up your body and mind and learn proper Thai. Again, chapeau. The Ghost was a beautiful child and could have grown. But along with the urge to write you had to share the blogger’s fate. There’s so much fame and fortune — and money! — in blogging.
Meaning, it’s slavery to keep a blog well maintained and up and running. Your intentional demise is testimony to the countless anonymous bloggers out there trying to… trying to… what the heck do I know what blogging is trying to achieve. A zero sum game for many, a hobby or end in itself for others, a vocation of some.
You made me think Bob. All those hours spent do keep a blog alive — what’s it worth. But there’s so much to it. You see a blog grow. Analyze the stats like an addict. See the direct traffic, feed count growing. Get feedback, comments, a hate mail or two. As a blog slowly develops a life of its own.
Living — and dying — with its readership.
That bond between blog and readers is real.
Despite the occasional hints of burnout syndrome, you Bob convince me:
Writing about the PAD and other lunatics may not be as much fun as writing about Pattaya nightlife and witnessing all the human tragedies and excesses.
But we love what we do and are in for the long run. Hey, it’s all real!
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