Whenever I’m reminded of the need to remain focused I’m in turn reminded of a famous line from Star Wars:
“Stay on target… stay on target!”
Of course, this line was spoken by a character known only as “Gold Five” during the final assault on the Death Star shortly before he’s blown to pieces. Gold Five was too focused, and didn’t see those Tie fighters coming.
Staying focused is important. Not only that, but fulfilling your end of the deal is important also. In blogging, we have a sort of contract with our readers. Sometimes, bloggers get off-topic. That’s OK sometimes. But then they do it again. Unless your blog is truly about whatever, I firmly believe in more or less sticking to the focus of the blog. I certainly don’t want to read about football on a fantasy mag editor’s blog or politics on a fantasy author’s. I get plenty of both from other sources.
Not only that, but certain topics (like politics) can get pretty heated. About a week ago I was reading about a publishing dinner party (I wish I could dig up the link) in which two of the guests started talking about Obama and McCain. Next thing you know the two are jumping over the table and engaging in a not-so-sporting match of fisticuffs. We’re entering the silly season of politics, so expect more of that.
But I, for one, refuse to waste my time reading blogs that promise one topic then deliver another.
I’m using my own attitude as a reminder to myself to “stay on target… stay on target!”
With that, this rant is concluded.