If you build it they will come.  So, they built it and people are coming by the millions -   Facebook, Twitter, My Space, Linkedin, Plaxo, Flickr, Tumblr, Good Reads, etc., etc.

The question is why?  Social networking has exploded.  In just the last two years it seems everyone is on line.  They’re either blogging about something, or trying to connect to someone.  I get it, I really do.  But, is it necessary?  Do you really need 500 friends on Facebook?  Do you even know them?  Do you need 2000 followers on Twitter – can you even keep up with them?

When it comes to Twitter, personally, I’m disappointed.  For me it’s like instant messaging on crack.  I know, people will say I’m crazy, but hear me out.  I’ve been on line; I see what people discuss on Twitter.  Do I really need to know what you ate for breakfast, that you walked your dog, or that your armpit smells so you think it’s time for a shower?  Seriously.  I. Don’t.

For authors, publishers and bloggers, it’s a promotional tool.  Talking about the latest release, where to get it, and how to find out more about you.  But, I was talking to an author the other day and I asked the question, “Where’s the real communication?”  “Where’s the one on one?”  The internet is fast and it’s a good way to disseminate information quickly to a large group – but is anyone out there listening?   Or are we all just talking over each other? What happened to honest to goodness live communication?  What happened to picking up the telephone and having a conversation instead of ‘texting’ your thoughts.  Where’s the let’s meet up for coffee or drinks?  When was the last time you wrote a letter, or sent a card?  You know, go to the store, find the Hallmark section, pick out something, write in it, put a stamp on, and send it through the United States Postal system?

I’m prepared for an argument here.  I’m sure there are plenty out there that just think I’m low tech and not with the program.  But, I ask – have we become less communicative with all the social networking?