virtual writing

"I want to be Seth Godin." I don't remember who I was talking to at the time, but those words just rolled right on out. It shocked me.

Fortunately, I was on the phone, and could use the fuzzy telephonic interface to gloss over the statement with a careless chuckle. But however I may deny it to others, I did actually say that. Ever since, I wonder what the hell I meant by it.

It's not because he's glamorous. Godin's routine and reserve are notorious. He doesn't even Twitter.

It's not because he's cute, unless you like the large-nosed, bald-pated look.

And it's not only because he's smart, since a whole bunch of people are smart. When asked who I would want to meet from all time, my first thought was Leonardo da Vinci. I mean, smart is assumed.

No, I think it's because Godin is smart and he's also a conscientious, street savvy no-bull****ter. He arbitrates the marketing world like a samurai. His leadership is uncanny in our chaotic society.

Perhaps it's odd to venerate a scion of mere marketing. Yet internet business makes today's marketing succumb to social graces and responsibilities. And Godin becomes godfather not just of PR but...