Marcon is a no-go....

[poltr1]

This coming weekend is Marcon, a large science-fiction convention in Columbus, Ohio. Once again, I'm not going to be able to afford to attend. Conventions have become a luxury for me., And I shouldn't be wasting money on frivolous things like science fiction conventions when things like mortgage, food, and prescriptions have a higher priority.

But it goes deeper than that. For the past several years, I've not been happy with going to conventions. I'd see my "con friends", but only in passing. It's rare that I would spend more than 5 minutes with any of them. And that makes me question the depth of those friendships. I've come to the conclusion that conventions are a lousy place for socializing, as everyone else has their own agendas --- panels, activities, the dealers' room, and so on. I often walk away, feeling like I'm a stranger.

I used to enjoy conventions. I'd meet new people, try out new things, and have a blast. But I think those days are gone for me.

Comments

[browngirl.livejournal.com]

I've had the same experience at conventions in recent years, and I'm sorry you're undergoing it too.

[catalana.livejournal.com]

I enjoyed seeing you at OVFF, although with Pegasus stuff, I rarely have a chance to chat with anyone there until Sunday. :(

The nice thing about working at the dealer's table is that people usually come by and chat with you - it's how I've had most of my good conversations lately.

[poltr1]

Thank you. It would be nice if conventions would add an extra day with no programming, so that those of us who want to chat and visit can do so. But I doubt that would happen anywhere except for relaxacons.