On September 12, I wrote a blog post titled “Here For Phish? How About You Lend a Phreaking Hand?” In retrospect, I realize that it was ill-timed and ill-conceived. A number of readers felt the post impugned the good work already being done by flood volunteers, took for granted Phish’s contribution to the relief efforts, and was offensive to a legion of music fans.

This was not my intent. I simply meant to draw attention to a need facing our state in the wake of a natural disaster and, at the same time, poke a little fun at the caricature of the Phish fan that has formed over the years. And, yes, I realize there is more than one kind of Phish fan. 

I, like my fellow Vermonters, appreciate the work that is being done around the state to help get people back on their feet after Tropical Storm Irene. Phish is being incredibly generous by donating their time and talent. The money that is raised from their benefit show on September 14 will go a long way toward helping the state heal. I didn’t intend to minimize their contribution, or those of concertgoers from in and out of state.  

Judging from the negative reactions to the blog post, I clearly didn’t achieve what I set out to with the piece: to entertain and inform. As some have already pointed out, this piece was a “phail.” I acknowledge that, and I’m sorry.

Editors’ note: Opinions expressed on our staff blog do not necessarily reflect the views of editors or staff at Seven Days. Many of us are longtime Phish fans, and all of us appreciate what the band, and its fans, are doing for our state.

This article appears in Sep 14-20, 2011.

Lauren Ober was a Seven Days staff writer from 2009-2011.

146 replies on “Blog Post “Phail””

  1. Just stopped at Home Depot and purchased face masks and gloves to bring to VT. Also have a box of canned food and clothes to donate to Red Cross. I think an extraordinary amount of good will come from the Essex show and not only the financial contribution that the Phish organization will make. For the most part, the fan base is a caring, thoughtful and articulate group with much to offer. While deeds of compassion and concern have been happening for years by many in the fan base and typically go unreported, periodically its nice to be acknowledged for the work that so many do in the communities that Phish plays around the country. Apology graciously accepted. Better to focus on the important matters.

  3. Really? REALLY?Knickers were so knotted Seven Days is printing this? Come ON. We all know Phish phans are too stoned to organize a backlash. Besides, the paper’s free.That’s a joke, super sensitive Phish people.Also: “Editors’ note: Opinions expressed on our staff blog do not necessarily reflect the views of editors or staff at Seven Days. Many of us are longtime Phish fans, and all of us appreciate what the band, and its fans, are doing for our state.” Nice. Way to stand behind your staff, editors. Like… ten feet behind them.

  6. Your article maybe had the right idea, but why “poke fun” at these fans? Is that the way to get people to respond and take action during a disaster, to “poke fun”? Bad taste..Im sure I could make a ton of stereotypes just by looking at your Facebook picture, but is that gonna accomplish anything? I hope your lesson was learned and that the people of VT take you back..

  7. Thanks for the apology on your “Phail”. Remeber, snark is not always the best or only way to convey thoughts, ideas or humor. Ask Ed Shamy…

  8. Lauren, everyone makes mistakes and sometimes things just miss the mark. Thanks for clearing it up. Many of us are looking forward to heading up to your beautiful state tomorrow, spending some cash and seeing our favorite band, all with the goal of raising some money for our friends in VT.

  9. Apology accepted. Kudos for the response. Let’s have some fun tomorrow and stay safe and courteous to all who attend as well as the residents of Essex.

  10. Much better. Now let’s all focus on having a great day and night tomorrow and contributing to raising a bunch of money.

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