In Case of Folly
For awhile now I’ve sensed a need to add some kind of disclaimer to this blog. Why? For my own safety, of course. As the theologian James wrote, “For we all stumble in many ways, and if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body” (James 3:2).
I haven’t yet arrived in terms of holistic perfection, and so, on a blog focusing on incisive language, the peril seems obvious. I can’t dodge verbal missteps indefinitely.
So here we go. Disclaimer:
[begin legalese]
My vocabulary may (or not) be flawless—but that’s all, strictly speaking, that you’re permitted to critique. I’m entitled to spelling eros, redundancy if I feel like repeating myself again, and even—I could sure use a latte right now—non sequitors. I can also employ apt clichés; if the glove fits, wear it. To sum up: in all matters not directly touching vocabulary, I’m untouchable. So ha!
[end]
In a dog-eat-dog world, I feel the need to pad my chances.*
::
*No, I’m not really serious. But we VRP activists will be judged by a higher bar…best not to be caught flat-footed.
I haven’t yet arrived in terms of holistic perfection, and so, on a blog focusing on incisive language, the peril seems obvious. I can’t dodge verbal missteps indefinitely.
So here we go. Disclaimer:
[begin legalese]
My vocabulary may (or not) be flawless—but that’s all, strictly speaking, that you’re permitted to critique. I’m entitled to spelling eros, redundancy if I feel like repeating myself again, and even—I could sure use a latte right now—non sequitors. I can also employ apt clichés; if the glove fits, wear it. To sum up: in all matters not directly touching vocabulary, I’m untouchable. So ha!
[end]
In a dog-eat-dog world, I feel the need to pad my chances.*
::
*No, I’m not really serious. But we VRP activists will be judged by a higher bar…best not to be caught flat-footed.
posted by AJ at 9:44 AM
4 Comments:
Aw, gee...does that mean I can't even *ask* about "spelling eros?" I find the concept fascinating, and would love to learn more.
;-)
Allow me to elucidate.
Because we are working for the greater good of mankind (right? of course right), our word choices may be criticized. In all related areas, however, we are above reproach.
I believe this concept is known in other fields by the broad euphimism, "area of specialization."
The sooner everyone surrounding us can understand this idea, the better. Attempts to question our spelling, our metaphors, or our verbal content in general will be met with stern indifference.
The beauty of this arrangement is growing on me by leaps and bounds. ;)
Perfection, Ariel, is the enemy of the Good.
This is a romp that even the Cheshire cat could enjoy! I am sending all my journalism/lit/speech students over for refreshments after their last week's midterms.
We all congregate at www.credoacademy.com or http://mother-lode.blogspot.com/
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