I just recently noted about heroes crashing into the ground … and then today this came across me. Paul Graham is indeed a startup-hero and most definitely needs to come crashing down to a more proper “person” level … for the benefit of many. For me, thankfully, came crashing down a long time ago when he spoke out about art.
Paul Graham invented and operates a formula … it may sometimes work for some people in some contexts. It is a mistake though to view his as “the formula” it’s just “a formula”. It’s also a mistake to condone him for preaching a lousy lifestyle. He didn’t invent a lifestyle … he invented a money making machine. Sacrificing lifestyle is practically inherent to his invention. A more efficient target would be his purpose, not his tool.