We Are All Rankers Now: Or Why the Internet Has Turned to Shit
The article reflects on how the internet has shifted from a space for authentic expression to one dominated by algorithm-driven content optimization. The author critiques the current focus on SEO, conversion, and audience metrics, arguing that genuine writing has been sidelined. While optimization tactics are effective, they have eroded the original spirit of sharing ideas for their own sake.
- ▪The article critiques modern content creation practices that prioritize SEO and conversion over authentic writing.
- ▪Platforms like Google, Medium, and Facebook reward engagement and optimization, not quality or originality.
- ▪The author writes on BearBlog and reaches readers through non-algorithmic channels like Kagi and Reddit.
- ▪Writing that isn't optimized for algorithms often goes unread, regardless of its quality.
- ▪The internet's current state reflects a systemic shift, not just individual choices by writers.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
We Are All Rankers Now: Or Why the Internet Has Turned to Shit 14 May, 2026 I almost posted a comment on a Medium article this morning. The comment was: "This kind of advice is why the internet has turned to shit." I didn't post it. Not because it was wrong, but because the article didn't deserve it. It was excellent. Genuinely useful. The kind of piece that makes you think rather than just nod. Read the SERP before you write. Understand intent. Find the thinking gap. Look for what the top results quietly stepped around and write that instead. Good advice. Practically sound. The author clearly knows what they're doing. But I couldn't shake the feeling that something had gone wrong somewhere upstream. The PremiseThe article was about keywords.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Grumpy Welshman.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Grumpy Welshman
