Lee Siegel

I have a confession to make. For years, I earned a living - or a sort of living - writing negative book reviews.

The Web critic relies on his or her readers for attentiveness and approval.

I react very badly when mediocrity throws a tantrum of entitlement.

I use computers and the Internet every day of my life, and yet I have absolutely no idea how they work. I'm like a labrador watching 'The Matrix.'

I studied international relations and economics at the University of Virginia. I paid my way by working as a bartender in the summer and at three part-time jobs during the year.

I have a naturally camp sensibility and a camp sense of humour. I love the icons that gay people love.