A corner for one, please

[clarentine]

Jim Hines is being smart (again) over here: http://jimhines.livejournal.com/585381.html. I, too, am a classic introvert. I've tried attending conventions of varying sizes, from WorldCon to World Fantasy Con to Fourth Street. I may yet go back to a convention, but right now, that is not a goal. And, as Jim says, that's just fine. It's the way I, and others like me, are wired. It's not that I'm shy (and there's a nice discussion topic: what's the difference between shy and introverted? I certainly believe there is one.); I have on plenty of occasions participated, and enjoyed, gatherings. I do presentations for my job in front of varying numbers of people and have always succeeded (and been asked back >:-) ) . But noise and movement and large numbers of people leave me exhausted. So, if you remember me running away at any of the aforementioned cons, that's why. And if you see me huddled in a corner at some future event, trying not to look like a panicked animal, I invite you to come huddle with me. Corners are where it's at, baby.

Comments

[eseme]

I handle large groups by focusing on smaller groups within them.

My issues with crowds seem to depend on the social situations I think I will find myself in.

I seem to enjoy cons a lot as a guest... (says the woman headed off to another one this weekend).

[clarentine]

Me, it's just too much input. Cannot process. I'm glad you've found a method that works for you - and groups you're happy to be with!

[eseme]

I am generally good with sound and people and input. It's more of a social anxiety than a physical processing issue.

Being able to retreat a bit form a con can be good (I bring a book).

[clarentine]

Oh, meant to put this in the opening post - someone commented in Jim's post that they take a sketchbook. That, I think I could do.

[eseme]

Interesting.

I have taken knitting to a con, to have something to fiddle with. Not this time, but others.

I have no artistic skill (in terms of sketching).