Thank you for your well written response.  I have been following the Susan Boyle phenomenon.  I confess I have never done this before in my life.  But…Part of my fascination is than so many people were thirsting for something that inspired.  (DEMAND) Susan seems to be so real she is an oddity to those who are tangled up in the superficial facade or “Pop Culture”. In Susan’s words, “I have something to offer”.  I would bet that many thought about and were inspired by the guts to take what you have and present it.  Multitudes are FIGHTING for it! “the pack” It isn’t just about defending Susan. (NEED) So, I think bad articles are written by those in media who aren’t thinking through the reason why millions had such a great need.  It is simple marketing.  There was a huge demand for something. We just couldn’t put our finger on it till it happened. It is amazing that large media organizations like News Week don’t have people in their marketing departments that can intellectually answer this apparent need. Even after it is played out… Amazing! I would think their target market would be ID’d as educated. They aren’t keeping up even after the fact! How do they have jobs!  I think it to be a BIG marketing misstep to not have their finger on the pulse of this phenomenon. It has been a pleasure.  Thank you again.

CJishere, it is always good to be reminded of civility and respect for each other.  Thank you.  I can see how a bevy of comments can seem like a "pack attack," and yet I think this is different than pack behavior.  As I read comments to other articles about Susan Boyle, I am generally struck by the articulate, heartfelt expressions.  Susan Boyle may not want or appreciate people defending her, but I felt a need to respond.  I know I feel sad that there are so many poorly written or researched articles floating around, and angry when they target someone like Susan Boyle.  She has struck a chord in the hearts of many, and when established opinion writers use their forum with ignorance and lack of regard for a person who many seem to want to tear down, I see red.  By the way, I still stand by my odiferous comment on the article... I found nothng in it of value.

Unfortunately, this article goes beyond the bounds of opinion.  It is mean spirited and has an obvious negative spin.  It is refreshing to see so many willing to push ugliness back.   If it seems like a “pack” Good!    Gratuitous… Ugliness - Nastiness – Negativity - Meanness – hurts people and our world.  Words are important so we should show respect in how we use them.   Go Good People!  Keep pushing back ugly and fight for beauty!