The document discusses the rise of consumer-generated online content, specifically blogging, and its implications for brand control. It notes that as consumers join online communities, control over brands becomes diffused and consumers can influence brand meanings. One trend is the "my story" phenomenon where individual consumers blog about brands and gain authority among online communities. The document also examines examples of how brands have lost control of their message through consumer blogging, but discusses opportunities for brands to harness blogging in a positive way to connect with customers.