Hmmm. I have to say, I'm an American and I think we're definitely that way about our professions ("I'm a __________") but I don't really recognize the "hobbyis

Hmmm. I have to say, I'm an American and I think we're definitely that way about our professions ("I'm a __________") but I don't really recognize the "hobbyists" described in the article. > BTW, if you really want to experience what I'm > talking about, visit a demoparty. We have lots of that here in America! Well, not demoscene meets (sadly!) but all the people I know who have passionate hobbies don't really "identify" with them. I looooooooove playing tennis (2-3x per week) and I'm always trying to improve along with my wife but I don't have a goal to compete in tournaments or anything. I don't typically say "I'm a tennis player." I'm also passionate about being an audio hobbyist but I'm happy wading in the shallow end of the pool; I don't even design my own speakers, I'm happy using the designs others have made and putting my own finishes on them. There are a few competitions in this hobby, but they are friendly and collegial and collaborative sort of like the demo parties... well, except all the guys are 55+ years old. I have friends that are very very passionate about art, running, etc but I don't see them really shaping their identity around those things. MORE IMPORTANTLY THOUGH: thank you for making my morning brighter by mentioning the demo scene =)