Thursday, February 25, 2010

The *F* Word

I was in an elevator yesterday, going up to the 16th floor with a gaggle of other female office workers, all of us "of a certain age". One lively woman was giving her opinion of her company's recent choices in promotions, which she didn't agree with. Her words were peppered with *f*-ing this and *f*-ing that and very disparaging comments about the intelligence of the promotees. It was clear to see why she has been overlooked for advancement. I find it very inelegant when any adult swears profusely in public. For some reason I'm quicker to forgive it in teenagers or very young adults, although I still find it distasteful. What I do know is the energy in that elevator was the kind that would eat and eat away at me for the rest of the day. It's already tomorrow and I'm still thinking about it. I've been known to let fly with my own profanity and frequently. I just do it in a more private setting. Is that really any better though? Is there a time and a place for blue talk? I think Mark Twain put it best when he said, "In certain circumstances, urgent circumstances, desperate circumstances, profanity furnishes a relief denied even to prayer".

4 comments:

Sherry said...

What we do in private is between us and ?...whoever, whatever we believe in. Even with our close friends, family, profanity can slip into the conversation, usually in a "response" to something. I've done it myself. But profanity used as part of the everyday English language (or whatever the native tongue) is inelegant. I loved your use of that word because it fits so beautifully. And it is a negative drain to hear it ... excellent perception on why this woman would be passed over for promotion!

Beth said...

I LOVE that quotation - it rings true.
I save my "f-ing" for the privacy of my own home.

Mike Minzes said...

It's a shame that she has to stoop that low as to use those words to describe her anger!

The quote rocks!

The Dutch Girl said...

I try to keep profanities and swearing to a minimum, especially with a toddler around that repeats my every word.

However. When it comes to DIY-ing, it's best to keep out of my way if you have tender ears. There's nothing like a little (or a lot) of proper swearing to get the job done. In my defense; I get this from my dad. And his brothers. And my cousins. See? It's inherited...