The free subscription is worth way more than a token sum of money. First, I'm convinced there is no way to provide adequate monetary compensation for articles t

The free subscription is worth way more than a token sum of money. First, I'm convinced there is no way to provide adequate monetary compensation for articles to begin with, not at the hourly rates most of us are charging. Second, writing articles for consumption on HN shouldn't be about money, period. But most importantly: by giving me a free subscription HM is seriously expanding (and keeping) their audience and in the process they made sure I'll always be a fan.