Popular stuff Dave is -- well, more popular. And certainly subject matter makes a hell of a difference. People read where they are comfortable and usually it's where it touches their lives or is an escape from their lives. I have read The Economist for 45 years and have thoroughly enjoyed it for substance and wit. Most folk haven't heard of the paper and would never read it.
So Dave (like The Econimist paper) you maybe haven't won a popularity contest but I see you do have 844 Followers and I think that's a fine achievement.
Keep writing and I will read -- and sometimes clap and comment.