Seeing how he speaks to a new community made it all crystal clear. I’ve encountered that type of demeanor quite often, which is burying nonetheless-obvious and heaping contempt under “it was particularly enjoyable” smarm and a fake smile. Even if unintended, wow, what a way to undermine the intended emotional payload of the story by demonstrating unreliable narration and self-awareness, as well as some far less favorable aspects of personality and empathy.

I feel for the guy, that situation is tough, but it’s making more sense now that I’m waking up to act 2 (particularly Mojang’s willingness to let it lie, another question I had).

Julian, if you read this, I don’t know that your words are having the effect you’re hoping for, and obviously pushing for. I think you’re unconsciously making the case that distance from you was probably healthy for all involved. I see a lot of discussion about whether HN is emotionally intelligent, and it might be true that folks here tend to focus on legalisms (it is, after all, primarily engineers), but take it from an outsider here: HN is on the mark in this case and I’d be more suspicious of Reddit’s take if I were you.