George orwell and the English Language
George Orwell, the author of "Politics and the English language" believes in the traditional style of the English language and that there is a definite correlation between language and action. Orwell highly believes that proper English can be cured by never using slang and never using a long word where a short one will do. It is the citizen's moral responsibility to use the English language with clarity. Most important, people must earn the English language and learn to use it the correct way. Orwell would be upset if he saw a modern day newspaper; every article has a flaw. In an article from the Tri Valley Herald titled "Pint-size pundits document campaigns," Dole uses a metaphor and slang that would infuriate Orwell. Dole compared Forbes to a "new restaurant that packs customers in at first but loses them once folks realize the food isn't so good." Language such as this creates unnecessary ambiguity and causes unclarity to the reader. Curing the English language of its' slang and ambiguity is an extreme belief of Orwell. Large words are simple statements dressed up to attract the reader's attention. Many large words are used to dignify certain classes of words such as politics, scienc
English can begin to heal by discarding every word or idiom which is no longer useful in any way. People must then use the fewest and shortest words that will cover the meaning being discussed. Orwell believes the worst thing one could do with words is to surrender to them. People also need rules to rely on when instinct fails. Orwell has constructed six simple rules that will help cover most cases. This is not an exact quote of Orwell rules. However, they basically consist of (1) never use a common metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech. (2) Do not use a long word when a short one will work. (3) Always get rid of excess words. (4) Never use the passive when you can use the active. (5) Never use a foreign or scientific word when there is an English equivalent. And finally, (6) Break any of these rules before you do something outright stupid. Orwell has taught the English language to so many but there are still so many to teach. Language is a tool for expressing thought not concealing or preventing it. When a person finally earns the English language and uses it with clarity will they then make a stupid remark. The stupidity will be obvious, even to themselves. Only then have they learned to respect and use the English language properly. Tossing all needless English words and phrases where it belongs- in the trash. e, and culture oriented people. These words may sound elegant and sophistic
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Approximate Word count = 954
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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