Thanks George S -- so damned OBVIOUS now you've mentioned it! Also note that
if you click the 'History' box on the top of the Wiki PF page, you get to
see WHO contributed WHAT and WHEN (and sometimes WHY). Although some
contributors hide behind unhelpful aliases (e.g., Chocolateboy!!), many are
up-front-identifiable, esp. Jerry Friedman whose regular PF postings on this
list I have found so convincing & helpful.

 

However, although Wikipedia is an excellent, on-going, open-access,
cumulative resource for PF-iania, I don't see it as the best vehicle for the
kind of cut'n'thrust exchanges we've been enjoying on our esteemed list.
Wikipedia is just one manifestation of Wikidom (Ward's server-based
PALIMPSESTOUS web-based hyperlinked database!) and others have suggested a
dedicated PF Wiki. I have a colleague who helped develop the software and
will explore the possibilities.

 

BTW: the PF debate reminds me of The Key to Finnegans Wake which was
followed by The Key to the Key to Finnegans Wake, and for all I know, ad
infinitum.

 

Suggested PF contest: write that final so-called missing line in such a way
that ALL mysteries are resolved.

 

Stan Kelly-Bootle

> It's already there: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pale_Fire
> See below fragment with reference to Botkin.
>
> Since Wikipedia content is writable by any registered user with minimum
> moderation and not clear ownership (all there is log of changes with
> user
> id) I can see how proponents of different theories of authorship fight
> it
> out in their Text Editors. Just imagine all Shadean, Kinbotian,
> multi-personality disorder and other proponents out there, lurking in
> the
> dark. With current activity here that's going to become a fun project.
> Who
> knows, may be even ultimate Wikipedia page ;)
>
> - George Shimanovich