Zeke wrote
You seem to be assuming that the only purpose
for nordic skiing is going fast. This just isn't true.

You're right to call me on that -- thanks Zeke. I should have been more
clear at the start that I was talking about the goal of speed.

I basically agree with you, but when you start saying stuff like this . . .

... racing is just one minor aspect.

Whoa!?!
Watch out for lightning bolts from above.

do it as gracefully and with as good technique as possible.

An unexamined assumption is that the technique which is best for speed is
also going to look and/or feel graceful.

Ken