avatarEdward John

Summary

The content discusses the nature of online authorship through the fictional persona of Edward John, who is a pen name for an unknown ghostwriter, and the implications of this anonymity on the authenticity of the opinions expressed.

Abstract

Edward John is revealed to be a fictional character created by an anonymous ghostwriter, which calls into question the sincerity of the opinions shared under this pseudonym. The writer behind Edward John acknowledges that their content may be influenced by financial motivations, such as adopting controversial stances to attract more readers and generate revenue. The article plays with the concept of truth in online writing, suggesting that not everything read should be taken at face value, and even the disclosure of the author's "real" identity and opinions may be part of the deception. The piece concludes with a tongue-in-cheek confession that may or may not be truthful, emphasizing the unreliable nature of online personas and content.

Opinions

  • The writer admits that the articles written by "Edward John" may not reflect their true opinions, as the primary goal is to attract readership and monetize content.
  • The author suggests that taking controversial positions could be a strategic choice to drive engagement, rather than a genuine expression of belief.
  • The article raises the possibility that the entire narrative about the author's identity could be a fabrication, highlighting the inherent uncertainty in trusting online content.
  • The writer playfully acknowledges the potential for deception in online writing, including the possibility of multiple layers of lies.
  • The piece challenges readers to question the authenticity of what they read online, especially when the author's true identity is concealed.

Why the Things I Write May Not Be My Real Opinions

I’m a fictional character whose words are written by an unknown ghostwriter

Image by Radoan Tanvir from Pixabay

Edward John does not exist.

As Edward says in his About Me article, this is a pen name. The words of Edward John are written by a ghostwriter. He or she spends their time writing for a made-up character. That character shares many of the same opinions, but not necessarily all of them.

Why?

This is a business. The writer is going to tend to go where the money is. Sometimes, that might mean playing Devil’s Advocate or taking controversial stances. Whatever the writer thinks will get lots of reads and earn lots of money.

This is not necessarily the best approach for everyone. It’s just the approach chosen by this particular writer. If you think this is a bad idea, Edward John doesn’t care. Because he can’t. He’s not real.

Or IS he?

Of course, this could be a double lie. Edward John might actually be my real name and I’m pretending it isn’t. Not everything you read online is true, but also not everything isn’t.

Okay, I confess. Edward John is my real name, and these are all my real opinions. It’s all true. I didn’t want to admit it at first. I was feeling shy.

But that could be a lie.

But it isn’t.

But that’s exactly what a liar would say!

In fact, most things I say are lies. Including that. But also that too, and this.

Are you confused? Tough shit. I don’t care.

Or do I?

More from “me”…

Writing
About Me
Who Am I
Who Am I Really
Pen Names
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