If this is the case, it means there is absolutely no hope for anyone else to grow organically considering the competition involved and the fact that NO ONE IS VOTING ORGANICALLY. At least, not enough with enough pull on the pool to make a significant difference.

This is exactly the case, I am afraid.

There is just not enough incentivation to curate. It is actually sad.

The vast majority of steemians stay with a couple of authors, and read them on a daily basis. Just them.

It is real hard to get an audience if you do not have enough money to buy or invest here.