In ways that certain of us are uncomfortable about…
““In ways that certain of us are uncomfortable about, SNOOTs’ attitudes about contemporary usage resemble religious/political conservatives’ attitudes about contemporary culture. We combine a missionary zeal and a near-neural faith in our beliefs’ importance with a curmudgeonly hell-in-a-handbasket despair at the way English is routinely manhandled and corrupted by supposedly educated people. The Evil is all around us: boners and clunkers and solecistic howlers and bursts of voguish linguistic methane that make any SNOOT’s cheek twitch and forehead darken. A fellow SNOOT I know likes to say that listening to most people’s English feels like watching somebody use a Stradivarius to pound nails: We are the Few, the Proud, the Appalled at Everyone Else.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A critique of linguistic elitism, likening it to religious conservatism and expressing frustration at perceived decline of language.
In simple terms: Language purists act like zealots, fearing modern usage.
Key Takeaway
Recognize bias and seek inclusive communication.
Themes
elitism
language
culture
frustration
identity
Mood
iritant
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic writing
- online forums
- classroom discussions
- editorial reviews
Key Concepts
conservatism
purism
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does linguistic elitism affect community?
- Can we balance standards with openness?
A Different Perspective
Such zeal can alienate and stifle genuine dialogue.