We don't need to see you flame each other

To the editor:

As a graduate student who went to WPI for two years as an undergraduate (who transferred here, none the less), I have a rather unique perspective on student life here at WPI. I must say it is interesting to have seen Newspeak change so much in the past few years. Two years ago, I was not at all surprised to see the Police Log win in the readers' poll as the best feature. Last year brought us Philler (the return of which was a great idea), and this year we see Newspeak becoming even more connected with the students of our school. I don't think Police Log will win this year.

What I write about, though, is the disturbing trend to treat Newspeak as if it were a wpi.newsgroup. If I wanted to see a flame war between Amy Plack and Brian Parker, I would load up trn - I wouldn't open up my Newspeak. I find it odd that so much text was devoted to this issue. I can only speak for myself, but I do not feel that the argument (which, while it does address valid issues, seems to have a rather personal feel) really belongs in Letters to the Editor. To use Amy's line of argument, would you open up the T&G and find a letter from a staff writer to the Editor and the Editor's response, open for all to read? Or would such discussions be reserved for meetings behind closed doors, with only the outcomes printed for all? As much as I enjoy the informal feel of Newspeak, I don't think we should forget it is a work of journalism and should have certain properties because of that.

I would also like to comment on the anonymous editorial on "Reviving the Goat's Head Rivalry". I think an anonymous editorial, especially by a member of the Newspeak staff, is out of place. It's easy to have an opinion when you know you aren't going to be, to use Brian Parker's words, called to task. Stand up for yourself when you state your opinion and we will respect your opinion more. As an aside - I disagree with the anonymous writer. But arguing that point would only dilute this already lengthy letter further.

Sincerely,

David K. Spencer

CS '95 / Graduate Student

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