Why somebody joins or leaves the list is a personal decision that may or may not have proper discussion value. If you leave a seminar audience you don't have to tell anyone at the door why you left though the organizers might like to know. With the robust numbers signed on to this list I don't think the listowner is worried about losing an audience. Charles Desmarais is reflecting his own expectations of the list and I think he has a right to them though I enjoy the present format. Everyone probably has slightly differing reasons for downloading so much mail. Discussions can change in direction but I agree that it reveals new thoughts and perspectives. I have enjoyed the poetry as much as the discussions and the pure information has been invaluable (Anita's book lists, etc.). The volume is my only concern and I agree a chat list might lessen that. Paul Apodaca Bowers Museum [log in to unmask]