That Does It!

"I wish to register a complaint!" - First line in the immortal Monty Python Dead Parrot Sketch

Today, I attended an all-day conference. As usual, most of it was torture. This time, however, my wrath will be directed not at the lecturers, but at the audience. Look, I hate conferences just as much as the next human being. I don't object to people sleeping, reading a book (I tried both today) or doing something to pass the time that doesn't disturb others. Unfortunately, audience members repeatedly disturbed the rest of us by either talking or, more often, by forgetting to shut off their cellphones, which went off at pretty regular intervals during sessions.

I can't be clear enough here - such conduct is disgusting and irresponsible, even if unintentional (in the case of the cellphones). It bothers the audience and the lecturer, and it sends a clear message to the lecturer that said disturber doesn't care to disrupt his presentation.

Put yourself in the position of the lecturer for a minute. S/he worked hard to prepare for an important conference. S/he probably knows that some of the audience will not pay attention, but at least will be respectful and not interfere. Then some jerk(s) start talking loudly, or some phone goes off with a bad rendition of classical music. If you do this often - imagine yourself at the podium and understand why this is so repulsive.

So, please, when you're in a conference, KEEP QUIET AND TURN OFF THE G-D DAMN PHONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!