Category: language

The Irony of Mr. Trump’s Rhetoric

An entire book could be (and perhaps has been) written on Mr. Trump’s rhetoric, something like Trump’s Towering Rhetoric.

I agree with Jim Gaffigan in a rant he posted when Mr. Trump was President: “Trump is a great salesman. Possibly the best salesman I’ve seen in my lifetime.” I agree. Although many people critical of Trump describe him as an idiot, dumb, or stupid, I believe he knows what he is about and succeeds very well in convincing about half the American population that he is what he says he is. Continue reading “The Irony of Mr. Trump’s Rhetoric”

Valediction to 20th Century English Grammar

The rest of it is the [meeting] of the minds and what is going to happen between you and I is the mutual agreements you and I create and that’s the relationship between you and I.
(don Miguel Ruiz Jr interview, author of The Four Agreements)

She and me share the same birth date.
(a comment on reddit)

As a voice from the previous millennium, I come before you to say goodbye to some handy grammatical distinctions that were used most of my life by many 20th century English speakers, including my parents and peers, preachers, politicians, plumbers, Pete Townshend, card sharks, journalists, swindlers, and writers. Continue reading “Valediction to 20th Century English Grammar”

My Breakfast With Sue

As an unworthy follower of Jesus, I have many brothers and sisters, all over the world. A few days ago, I had breakfast with one such sister, whom I’ll call Sue.

Gallop Cafe, one of my favorite eateries in the Highlands in Denver.

Outside, one of my favorite places to eat, anywhere.

Conversation, always enjoyable with Sue, who converted to Catholicism several years ago, during the crest of the child-abuse allegations in the Boston area, a gutsy move on her part. Catholicism works with her: she takes what is meaningful and doesn’t worry about the rest. Continue reading “My Breakfast With Sue”

The Grammar of War and the War on Grammar

I am more qualified to talk about grammar than war, although (the pending Syrian) war is the truly important item—so I will start with grammar.

The War on Grammar: We know that language simplifies itself over time. For example, the use of the apostrophe seems doomed. Half the people who see it’s importance, use it incorrectly (yes, I know, I did, and I know punctuation is not grammar, strictly speaking).

Continue reading “The Grammar of War and the War on Grammar”