> One thing I observed that I though was really odd: Why do people have such
> a desire to broaden the definition of words? If the definitions of words
> all overlap to the point where they lose their individual meaning and
> become interchangeable, you lose your ability to effectively communicate.
This is because language really has little to do with reality--words are just sounds that we have come to associate with real-life objects. Does the word "pen" imply only a writing utensil, or can it be used as (thanks to Joe Pesci) a weapon? Is a bucket still a bucket when banged on like a drum, or sat on like a stool, or used to carry water? Words can only convey a small part of life--that is what, in my opinion, music and art is for in the first place.
> The nuance of choosing one word over another is gone. Why do you want that?
> Let the words be distinct and hold clear meaning. If all the words begin to
> mean everything, than you won't be able to say anything at all. Strange,
> and this isn't the only place I notice this happening. I think Orwell was
> making that point in 2x4 fashion, he just got the year wrong
Life doesn't work in neat little categories. There are so many things that words just can't grasp. Again, that's why we need music...
jonathan
