Christine LaBroche wrote:

>I have also learnt how and when not to speak out of turn (on the MCML).

In other words, Ms. LaBroche is saying she "knows her place," and suggests
I should know mine.

This points exactly to the smugness called attention to by my post.
When I first encountered the list, I said: Oh Boy, here is a free-for-all
forum on CM where opinions can be exchanged and debated, and no one list
member or list members are exalted above everyone else, or are to be
approached as sacred cows.  Judging from the private e-mail I received
after my post, a number of list members feel strongly otherwise, and have
chosen a particular one on the list to be the arbiter of their taste.
Moreover, they demand no one dare place doubt in their minds about whom
they have chosen.  Passionate devotees these, where I might have thought
such passion would be reserved for the music.  Actually, there is nothing
evil with wanting someone to tell you what to think about art, literature,
movies, music, etc.  Arbiters offer a welcome security of opinion where
there is only insecurity.  But Geez, give me a break!  I don't feel I have
to be on the list myself for the purpose of looking for an arbiter, or that
the rules for joining the club should require acceptance of your arbiter as
my arbiter.

I would say to Ms. LaBroche: Don't worry about the how and when.  Trust
in your own judgment.  There is no such thing as "out of turn" when it
comes to honest inquiry.

John Dalmas
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