Week 5 reading notes (1)
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School
University of Texas, Dallas *
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Course
1302
Subject
Communications
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
Pages
2
Uploaded by CaptainGoldfinchPerson1002
Professor Katherine Yu
RHET 1302.043
13 February
Week 5 Reading Notes
1. Summarize the main points of the chapter or article in your own words.
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Orwell critiques the state of the English language in political writing
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Hihgliting the use of vague and meaningless language to manipulate and obscure
meaning.
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Orwell identifies common pitfalls such as clichés, jargon, and inflated language
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The essay emphasizes the importance of clarity, precision, and honesty in language.
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Orwell contends that clear language reflects clear thought and urges writers to strive for
simplicity and directness.
2. Choose 3-5 quotes that summarize the main points
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"But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought" (9).
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"The great enemy of clear language is insincerity. When there is a gap between one's real
and one's declared aims, one turns, as it were, instinctively to long words and exhausted
idioms, like a cuttlefish squirting out ink” (9).
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"A speaker who uses that kind of phraseology has gone some distance toward turning
himself into a machine. The appropriate noises are coming out of his larynx, but his brain
is not involved, as it would be if he were choosing his words for himself” (8).
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"Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in
print. Never use a long word where a short one will do. If it is possible to cut a word out,
always cut it out. Never use the passive where you can use the active” (11).
3. What questions, thoughts, or ideas do you have about the reading?
How has the use of language in politics evolved since Orwell's time? Are there modern examples
that resonate with Orwell's critique? How can individuals actively resist and demand clarity in
political communication? How has the digital age and the rise of social media impacted the use
of language in political discourse? In what ways can individuals actively promote clear and
honest language in political communication?
4. What types of rhetorical appeals do you notice being used?
In "Politics and the English Language," George Orwell uses logos, "A scrupulous
writer, in every sentence that he writes, will ask himself at least four questions, thus:
What am I trying to say? What words will express it?" This appeal to logic emphasizes
the intrinsic connection between clear expression and clear thought, urging writers to
prioritize precision and clarity. Orwell also uses pathos, invoking the readers' emotions,
when he asserts, "It becomes ugly and inaccurate because our thoughts are foolish, but
the slovenliness of our language makes it easier for us to have foolish thoughts." This
emotional appeal creates a sense of concern and urgency, adding to the idea that the
degradation of language can lead to a parallel degradation of thought. By using both of
these rhetorical strategies, Orwell compellingly advocates for a more thoughtful and
honest approach to communication, firmly rooted in clarity and transparency.
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