BS: Asterisk Euphemism

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 11:13 AM

Hi Bert, Fortunato. Occasionally when I first became involved in Mudcat I'd use profanity (usually in a "Holy Cow" kind of way), but I've noticed that I've gradually stopped, or on occasion used the silly **** sort of thing. I think whether misplaced or not, it's because I'm trying not to be offensive to someone who really DOES take that kind of thing seriously. I can be pretty flippant at times, and almost never take personal offence at anything someone else says, but I've come to appreciate that in a community such as this, I can feel more of "a part of it" if I "think before posting". The national character is a part of it as well. Were the Mudcat mostly Canadians, Brits, Aussies etc. I'd probably swear more and not worry about offending folks regarding religion, and dark humour. Religious faith is HUGE in America, even among very liberal folk, and though it's tempting at times to make light of the "jesus marketing industry" (even in folkish music), why do it, if it makes some good people uncomfortable? Same with swearing. As most of you know, occasionally I get seriously heated at times..but if I'm going to step on toes I'd rather do it around an issue that I REALLY care about.
I've NEVER really been part of any community (always preferred to be on the periphery of MANY communities), but I like it here, and I wanna stay awhile. A little bending isn't hard at all. (good discipline practice as well...and that helps when you're a lazy musician, like I am)

Rick

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Shimbo Darktree
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:56 AM

I have worked in remote mining towns and on construction
sites, so I guess I've heard all the words (and used them)
Nevertheless, some people are offended at seeing them in their
naked glory. What we are talking about here is consideration
for others (I don't believe I'm typing this, after my stir
on the Irish Question). I'm guilty of some minor transgressions
recently, and I really should not do it ... it is unnecessary.

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Bert
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:48 AM

I guess you have to draw the line somewhere. It may be kind of silly, but it seems to be the way that most Mudcaters are doing it.

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Fortunato
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:30 AM

Bert.

My kids are still in school. Let me tell you they can sniff out false morality like a bloodhound, are on me like white on rice if I'm hypocritical. Here at Mudcat I believe people arre attempting to be 100% sincere and real, otherwise why post?

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Bert
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:18 AM

My children are grown but others expressed a concern. I don't see it as much of a problem.

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Fortunato
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:15 AM

IMHO. Which child who uses the Mudcat doesn't understand what s**t or f**k means. If we are concerned about children's minds, and I as a parent am, then we perhpas should avoid Asterisk Euphemisms that even a second grader readily understands?

Subject: RE: BS: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Bert
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:05 AM

It was pointed out at one time that children also use Mudcat

Subject: Asterisk Euphemism
From: Fortunato
Date: 05 Nov 99 - 10:00 AM

Does anyone else think it is a bit silly to use Asterisk Euphemisms such as s**t or f**k. Who amongst us does not understand these and immediately translate? The word is sounded in the reader's head anyway. Why bother? Who do we think we are sparing discomfort?

I enjoyed the thread about the Dave Barry column, but spare me the asterisk euphemisms, please.

Yours, Fortunato