I note that the term "Internet Gentleman" is used here quite often, invariably, it would seem, derisively.
I also note, with equal measures of dismay and amusement, that I seem to qualify all too well as an IG:
I own an inordinately large shoe wardrobe.
I am extremely partial to pocket squares and wear them without fail whenever I wear a jacket.
I have a positively insane number of firearms.
What are some of the other hallmarks of the IG? I'd be curious to see how I measure up as a true blue, certifiable IG. Perhaps some of the rest of you would be as well.
In actual fact Captain P, it would appear you fail as an internet Gentleman. Self deprication is your downfall sweetheart,you simply do not take yourself seriously enough.
This is a good thing by the way, a real IG is full of his own self importance and pomposity,a trait I do not see in yourself.
Grace x
Last edited by Grace (2008-03-24 16:11:27)
I like to believe, Captain, that we are literal gentlemen, as opposed to those who become caricatures of gentlemen solely to score points with their close, personal, imaginary internet friends.
The Net Gent is simply one more play on the widespread personality type now prominent. No matter if one is a hipster, academic, 'burb-type, or whatever, there is an unhealthy obsession with obsessing on that which is obscure, 'authentic', 'better' for reasons defined by 'those who know', and not too accessible.
The real joke, though, is that whatever it may be (say, "trad"), it is all very much trendy and very much accessible - anyone with an interent connection and time on their hands can get it. One could live in Antartica and become the perfect "fill-in-the-blank" these days, something not possible in years not so far gone. And with youtube and other sites, one can even get the speaking style right.
The Internet Gentleman spends a surprising amount of time in church.
The Internet Gentleman becomes quite indignant when someone mentions anything smacking of black humor, such as betting on which ancient celebrities won't live to see the New Year.
Internet Gentleman seek safety and validation in numbers. Sticking with the herd is good.
Internet Gentlemen are probably, by and large, presentably if uninspiringly turned out.
Internet gentlemen speak about clothes in the minutest detail all day, including a fascination with the empirical make and construction of shoes becase knowing exactly how they are made from start to finish makes them fit better and last longer.
But then, after a long dissertation over the virtues of hand work in a buttonhole, they will commune together and bond when one of their number blurts out that clothes do not make an "Internet gentleman". They will then Om in unison that this is the case and then revert back to a discussion over what factory makes a given retailers shoe brand.
lnternet Gentlemen are those guys that take themselves very very seriously and try and come across as having better taste than everyone else. Minute (can't spell the word. Minute = mine-oot) clothing details matter and handwork is always preferred. lnternet Gentlemen always jump on the bandwagon and praise the more popular posters and praise the more popular high end tailors and Edward Green. Lots of lnternet Gentlemen post at London lounge....guys that are more than happy to run with the pack....guys that back up what is most popular.
Dear doctor, you are not an internet gentleman.
Last edited by The_Shooman (2008-03-25 08:26:15)
Semantics:
Visiting your parents who live outside the suburbs: "I was in the country wearing my tweeds and country shoes".
A drink with friends: "I was in my City Club with the Gents, wearing my off-hours suit and monkstraps".
Internet Gentlemen also claim membership to a number of clubs and also regales everyone with what they believe are amusing little stories of their times at said clubs, which they lifted from assorted sources like Agatha Christie novels.
They are also Self-Sovereigns.
Last edited by The_Shooman (2008-03-26 06:06:08)
Obeisance must be given to all other IGs, especially those IGs who have attained the highest-ranking fora stature, such as Sultan of Style, Diplomat of Deportment or Baron of Bespoke (oh my). Should disagreements arise over any Earth-shattering issues involving CLOTHES, an IG does everything humanly possible to avoid even the faintest appearance of questioning another IGs authority or credibility. Seasoned IGs know to verbally tip-toe on eggshells and introduce any varing views in the most fawningly gracious manner. This rule of conduct holds especially if the other IG is a noted author, artisan moderator or a builder of shoe pyramids.
The finest of them has impeccable taste but still feels duty bound to show both his peers and poor unfortunates each and every repetitive purchase preferably unworn or in the original wrapping. This is done with a sense of noblesse oblige and to absorb the adoration and acclaim.
Last edited by Fogey (2008-03-26 10:27:40)