Earlier quoted context omitted.
Many fewer people in North America were awake and on HN two hours ago. Timing is key.
I wonder what the optimal time is to post to HN. Do people usually wake up, check HN and then go about their day? If so, around 9-10:30AM EST? Or maybe if most HNers come from the west coast, would it be 9 - 10:30AM PST?
When you have good content and your luck is at its maximum.