I wish I could explain. My friend doesn't get it either, in fact most people I know don't get it. They either don't drink beer or they only drink mass produced swill. It isn't that I'm a beer snob or do it for looks, why the hell would I want to pay an extra 30 bucks when I'm out drinking? Domestics around here run from 1.50 to 2 dollars a bottle, but Imports can be around 5-6 bucks. Try ordering a Samuel Smith's Oatmeal Stout and see if you don't get reamed. I like Guinness as well, I loved it the first time I ever had it on tap, and have been drinking it since then. Many people say it is horrible, but to me it tastes great.