Oops, sorry, guys, I think you misunderstood me there. I wasn't implying that on our forums we have overly strict mods who won't let you ask a question in public and punish you if you do so. (Why would I say such a thing about myself?)
It's just that... well... I can see why someone may want to lock a thread. As a mod it's part of your job to keep the forum more or less tidy so it'll be accessible not only to the regular members but also to visitors who are just browsing. It's an extremely frustrating experience if you visit a forum and not a single thread is on-topic. And topics can spin out of control very quickly, especially on a forum as large as this one. I've seen several of those around here during the time when I was only lurking and wondering whether I should register. (two words: The Pope)
Don't get me wrong: I do agree that a certain amount of off-topic chattiness is fun, but things can get messy very quickly and then it's much harder to clean up afterwards...
Well, maybe I'd better just shut up.
