It is what I love about language: a single word can have two diametrically opposed meanings. I am nonplussed. Read that as you will.
If anyone tells you that communication between people is easy, they are either lying or trying to sell you something you do not need. Communication is hard. Sometimes it is impossible. Doubt me? Chuck the word ‘socialism’ into the public square and watch the fight. One word, a mass of angry or positive associations. Communication will always leave you nonplussed.
Language – words – are imprecise and malleable. They are never passive, that is, people us their words to get something (get understanding, get an idea across, get their way…). Language is a tool of intention. Language is a tool of story. The story raging inside your head or outside is intentional. Self-talk and Other-talk – both – are in hot pursuit of something (being right, being seen, being valued…). Achieving the intention or not will inevitably leave you nonplussed.
Nonplussed seems like a good intention to pursue. Either way you go, you get there.
read Kerri’s blog post about NONPLUSSED
Filed under: Flawed Wednesday, Language, Story, Uncategorized | Tagged: communication, david robinson, davidrobinsoncreative.com, Kerri Sherwood, kerri sherwood itunes, kerrianddavid.com, kerrisherwood.com, language, nonplussed, power of language, studio melange |
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