I'm addicted and trying to wean myself. Totally controls my life when I'm on it and I forget to play in the real world.

it feels utterly empty at the core, don't you think?

Yes, I do think. I'm always amazed when a young writer produces a book that speaks of age and wisdom. It surely means they were here before, because research can't possibly bring that. Then I remmebr that some get to live a very hard life, very early. :D