Seems like the bloggernacle is jumping with posts on bodies and embodiment. However, one thing I notice about blogging is the lack of embodiment. In fact, I think this facet of internet discussion actually makes it easier to engage in angry, hyperbolic rants and flame wars.
I have never been very comfortable with my body. My own self-image is that I look sort of like a dork (one reason I grew a goatee – to look less dorky). I did have a temper as a child, but I’m a rather non-violent person and (despite having done wrestling and football in high school) have a knee-jerk reaction against any sort of violence (which means you can likely take me in a fight. It also makes me wonder if my opposition to the current war is really a result of earnest thought or just an a priori justification – but that’s another thread).
However, I am over 6 feet tall and I do go to the gym 5 – 6 days a week. Even though I consider myself rather dorky looking, apparently my mere physical presence scares people, especially when I seem to be somewhat ticked off. I’ve found when I raise my voice or even seem annoyed, people get rather defensive, as if they assume this tall, muscle bound (not that muscle bound, though) guy is going to go all postal on them. Hence, I make great efforts in public to never show even the slightest hint of anger.
However, on the web that doesn’t matter. You have no body when discussing things. So it’s hard to seem like the big tough person, little scrapper, or demure whatever. I have no idea what most people picture (if they picture anything at all) when they read my posts. My lack of a body contributes to the times I do fly off the handle and post angry, non-productive rants: It’s unlikely anyone is going to want to run for the door.
I’m not sure what this might mean, other than I have probably dissuaded many of you from ever wanting to meet me in real life. I promise, I’m really not that scary. I wear glasses and read comic books, so I see myself more like that time travelling Japanese guy on NBC’s Heroes rather than as Kevin Sorbo.