[arexxbifs]

Perhaps. But it was heartfelt nonsense, without people trying to "monetize" or build "clout". If someone had joined an IRC channel in 1996 and started advertising cosmetics, they would've been kickbanned faster than you could type "A/S/L?".

[alex_lav]

Yeah, I just do not believe this is actually true, but I’m glad you have such fond memories.

People have been trying to build clout and sell shit on every available medium as long as capitalism has existed.

[arexxbifs]

You're right. I'm lying. You passed the test. Anyone who remembers a less commercialized, plaintext Internet is a stooge planted by Big Unix.

[alex_lav]

Relax, friend. Nobody said anything about lying or tests. I'm asserting that your rose colored glasses are just quite strong. Nothing sinister, nothing offensive.