Sure. I don't disagree with that. I think the Beat Generation (and mid-century Mississippi blues) from my earlier comment are also examples. Niche in their tim

Sure. I don't disagree with that. I think the Beat Generation (and mid-century Mississippi blues) from my earlier comment are also examples. Niche in their time. Automobile enthusiasts were a niche group. Early web forum users, IRC, ICQ... Predecessors of modern social media culture. For an even more "on the nose" example would be the Homebrew Computer Club, Altair programmers and whatnot. I think we're all familiar with "disruption theory" by this point on HN. The point is... is this a vanguard or a rear guard? Both have value. But... expecting the rear guard to "take off" is misguided.