Frankly, I do not believe James’ woe is me bit is anything other than an act and emotional manipulation of his audience

I believe it is entirely plausible that Somerton is suicidal over this. If he can’t muster up the willpower to write any of his own words in his videos, I doubt he can muster up any emotional resilience. Shame, guilt, and despair are appropriate emotions for Somerton to feel right now. These are emotions that teach us to do better, when they’re properly controlled. I doubt Somerton can control his emotions. And uncontrolled shame and despair can lead to suicidal impulses. So I am willing to believe Somerton has attempted suicide because of H’s video.

But I agree with you that that’s not anyone else’s problem, nobody owes Somerton anything, and we shouldn’t let our opinions of him be swayed by what he’s saying. I don’t think it matters that it’s true. Shame is the only way Somerton can possibly feel over what he’s done. It’s his own fault. And it is right that he be faced with appropriate consequences for his actions. We’re looking at a choice between Somerton in the hospital and Somerton stealing money from queer writers who have actual integrity. I’d rather a Somerton in the hospital.