I can see the point in NOT using your real name, as especially on Mudcat, its easy to get involved in an argument that gets out of hand. If you are an artist, part of the reason for being on forums is to spread your name around, but you do have to be very careful what you say.

I have never been able to do either (1. be very careful and 2) use a fictious name)

I understand why people do but I also despise it when people use a fictious name just to attack others and cause mischief - have vowed to myself not to post anymore on several occasions because of it.

However, its through Mudcat that I know such splendid folks/fXlks/FOLKS as Spleen and Ruth.