A fool's errand
or thoughts about the tiktok ban
I can’t believe that I allowed myself to have faith in SCOTUS for even seventeen seconds. I’m reeling from this most recent news, disappointed (as always) in our government, and a bit horrified that the scant bit of hope hinges on the Trump administration. I’m devastated by what has happened.
TikTok just an app.
Sure, in the grand scheme of things this doesn’t matter because nothing matters because we are all just stardust caught in a short, sentient cycle and we will all disseminate in a blink and the universe will go on and all will rot. Nihilism is fan favorite to dismiss people’s feelings, along with toxic positivity. I know all about the other apps out there and their endless possibilities. Just let me feel my feelings.
Here’s the thing: I’ve been active social media for twenty years. (Yikes). I’ve seen the demise of myspace, of old facebook, of twitter, or tumblr. Platforms rise and platforms fall and things change. Change is the only constant in this world. So why, then, does this one matter?
TikTok is the first platform that feels like a community to me, and not just a popularity contest I’m losing.
My publisher shares a parent company with TikTok so this may impact that dream I’ve carried for my whole life.
I’ve built my small business as a freelance editor predominantly on TikTok and have used it to help writers find their feet in traditional publishing.
TikTok was where I have made the most stride in marketing SING THE NIGHT, and now without it, I don’t know where to go.
For the record, the answer is not Meta-owned apps. They are a horrorscape and since Zuck pumped 7 mill into lobbying the government to ban his competitor, I can’t stomach to be on those right now. But I have book coming this year and I should be hustling. I have a sequel I need to write and I should be writing it. I have a lot of things that should be, but instead I’m wallowing in despair.
If you’re sad about this too, if this is affecting your books or small business or community, know that I’m with you and I’m sorry. What a disappointment.