I don't think I am reading too much, I've provided the explanation and my thoughts around erosion of quality on HN.

> HN may be serious, but we're not entirely humorless.

I can agree with that, a little sprinkle of tasteful humor doesn't hurt even thought it doesn't add anything meaningful to the discussion. Totally ok.

You cannot realistically expect that all commenters adjust to your particular likes or dislikes. Ironic, because that is exactly how many redditors think.

I hope, sincerely and without prejudice, that you are able to back that assertion with reliable - and dead-pan serious - data.

Speak for yourself