[aldoushuxley001]

I think it's the background-colour.

Every other link on reddit has a slightly darker background, which helps separate the links. HN doesn't have this, preferring to simply number the links as its way of differentiating

[kilceem]

If one was so inclined one could make a custom css for HN. everyone has there quarks and can not make everyone happy.

[jasonm23]

You are triggering my OCD. It's my problem though.

Everyone has their strangeness and charm. Not sure they have quarks but I'm quirky like that.