Why Be Anonymous?

I just recently got noticed by the big-wigs at signposts.org.au after I linked to them (which was a bit exciting), writing about the distinctives of the Vineyard (a very worthwhile read and pretty much encapsulates what I love about Vineyard). And in their post there was a mention of the fact that I was posting anonymously. Now, I know first-hand that I haven’t been anonymous enough for people who know me to work out who was writing these – Scott (from Ranges CC which I’m still plugging) didn’t take more than a few posts before he asked if I was writing theGeoffRe(y)port.

So why bother? No really good reasons. Mostly it’s that one level of separation. If I was to go for a job and they were to run my name through a google search, I wouldn’t neccesarily want them reading the top 5 things that make me cry. Just that type idea. It’s a sweet irony that not revealling myself completely helps me to be more honest. In a weird, twisted way it’s kind of poetic. I also think there’s a little more interest in reading the musings of someone with a bit of mystery.

The other part of my thinking – and there’s a little bit less selfishness in this bit, is that I like being able to write about what’s going on in the lives of people around me, in broad terms, and to write about those lessons. And where I’ve been cagey about my own identity, I’d definitely be very frightened of giving out other people’s names. So it’s just building in another imaginary layer, between the people in my life, and the big bad internet. Sure it’s all just an illusion, but it’s my illusion, and I quite like it.

P.S If anyone REALLY wants my name, it’s Geoff.