Sincere Cynicism: The Art of Trolling

If you saw the title of my blog and this image immediately came to your mind, then you MUST continue reading. If you are a level 52 or higher internet troll, then you can go ahead and exit your browser because you have tested out of Trolling 101.

Let's start by defining the act of "trolling," from a legitimate source (Wikipedia): "someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community... with the primary intent of provoking readers." Here is my definition of trolling: "purposely annoying the shit out of people to get a reaction." I only have 1 major argument with Wikipedia's definition of trolling. That is, you can totally troll people in real life.

The purpose of trolling is to say something outrageous, offensive, or just plain outrageously offensive to get someone to react. If you get any reaction from them whatsoever, you have succeeded, and you can give your self a point. Now, the difference between a n00b troll and a master troll is that a master troll will be able to carry on the trolling until the other person gives up. Master trolls will always use lines like, "you mad?" or "you mad bro?" Number 1 rule of trolling: never let down. Once you have won the battle, always drop the line, "they see me trollin'... they hatin'..."

Now, let's not get this confused with being a "devil's advocate." The purpose of a devil's advocate is to present an opposing opinion to enhance the discussion/conversation. A troll throws stuff out there to piss people off. There is a distinct line in the sand, so make sure you stay on the right side.

By now you're probably asking yourself about Nom's trolling capabilities. Here are a few examples from a master troll.