Do you agree with Orwell, here? (ready made phrases)

Molly

Do you agree with Orwell, here?

"The invasion of one' s mind by ready made phrases can only be prevented if one is constantly on guard against them, and every such phrase anaesthetises a portion of one's brain" - George Orwell - 1946.

MrPedantic · #2 (permalink) Tue Oct 14, 2008 23:24 pm *ready made phrases*

"Invasion", "on guard", "anaesthetises": ready-made metaphors, unfortunately.

Even "ready-made phrase" is a ready-made phrase.

MrP

Molly · #3 (permalink) Tue Oct 14, 2008 23:33 pm *ready made phrases*

I agree. Do you think Orwell use of the word "phrase" included single words?

MrPedantic

To extend his warning to include all kinds of "ready-made" language would not be contrary to the spirit of the essay.

MrP

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