I've been reading Post Secret on and off for a few years now. I have to admit it makes me equal parts sad and fascinated---quite the collection of humanity within its pages (or screens, whatever).
I think its popularity lies in two areas. One-it does give outlet to those who think they have none; a voice to the silent. Two-it gives opportunity for people to enjoy lots of Schadenfreude in one convenient little package. Schadenfreude is a German word that is loosely translated as "taking joy in the misfortune of others" and I do believe that some people read Post Secret just for this reason; that when you see other people's lives as more miserable than your own you feel better by comparison. That is the same reason people love to watch those video shows of other people getting hurt. They are neat and sanitized ways to act on basest instincts without any repercussions.
I am quite sure that some of the postcards sent in to Post Secret are fabricated and despite all of the deeply moving and sad things I've read on that website, the disingenuousness that would lead someone to make up a 'secret' makes me saddest of all. That someone would be so starved for 'celebrity' that they would make up something (even something that was going to be posted anonymously) just to get their own warped fifteen minutes of fame is just a side effect of our celebrity driven culture.
I have to agree with you on the genuine-ness of the site. I read PostSecret a long time ago, before it was huge, as it is today, and I feel like those secrets were real and true while a lot of them today are made up so someone can say, "Hey, did you see my secret on that website?" or just to make fun of the real secrets.
ReplyDeleteI agree as well. I feel that although I would not be able to read this website on a regular basis, it may give people satisfaction to read other's painful secrets.
ReplyDeleteI found the posts to be interesting and make me look at things outside the box. While most were sad some were humorous and if there are posts that are made up thats a shame. This site could be a good way for some people that dont have anyone they trust enough or could talk to and use the site as their escape.
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