As a lover of language with a special interest in the meanings of words, one of the things I find very frustrating is when we refuse to say what we mean. Here's a clip of George Carlin's discussion of the plague of soft language that sums up what I'm talking about (warning: adult language* ahead) ...
And I'm not a "senior citizen" ... I'm a geezer, and proud of it.
Have a good day. More thoughts tomorrow.
Bilbo
* That would be "dirty words" in a more forthright time.
11 comments:
I don't like being referred to as a "senior" either. I was one for a year in 1961-62.
I love George Carlin and hadn't heard this rant. He does them so well!
George Carlin had a serious point. Comprehending soft language is sort of like tacking Jello to the wall.
I'm still a Curmudgeon in training with much to learn from experts like you and Mike!
Love George Carlin, so thanks for posting this hilarious video. So 'right on' about our invented language. How about the 'flight attendant', since men are also in the roles now?
When I worked in a store, I was an associate. Not a salesperson.
When I worked at the phone company I went from being a repairman to a technician.
I loved George Carlin.
He'd have a field day with our world today if he were still here.
Bill Cosby's accusers would all be unwilling sperm recipients.
That was a hoot, the observation, not the act.
I not a senior citizen no matter what my AARP card says. :-)
I can understand not wanting to be called a senior citizen.
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