Someone in Group A, which meets on Tuesdays, made a powerful observation. We were talking about the difference between denotation and connotation, and from this began to talk about the different rules that govern how we speak. I pointed out that there are rules that seem connotative in nature, rules that govern when to say and not say certain words, for example, for reasons of offense or politeness. There are other rules that seem more denotative in nature, rules such as not splitting infinitives in English.
My question regarded why we seem unfazed by the breaking of the so-called denotative rules, those typically taught in school, and why we are aghast when someone breaks one of the so-called connotative rules. The student who responded made the brilliant insight that the denotative rules are about form, but the connotative rules are about content. By breaking them, we say more than meets the ear.
So what are your thoughts? In what ways does language equal power? How does someone with an excellent command of written and spoken language have power over other less-skilled practitioners of the same language?
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2 comments:
Language is most definitely a source of power. Take politics for example. A politician who cannot speak well does not stand a chance when running against another with a language that reflects their education. Take for example President Obama who uses many rhetorical devices, and is a good speaker. He speeches show that he is a very well educated person. But, language is not the entire form of power when it comes to politics. Image is a strong player. Think about the Nixon/Kennedy debate in September of 1960. Nixon's image in this debate is terrible when compared to Kennedy. Youtube video of debate
Excellent historical example! So would you say in that case that perception was more powerful than language in shaping thought?
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