A summary of Orwell’s thesis regards the poor declining English language, modern English, including written English and in order to correct the English language to what it once was is by removing bad habits in order to gain a clearer thinking. “But an effect can become a cause, reinforcing the original cause and producing the same effect in an intensified form, and so on indefinitely.” This particular statement means although it normally is cause and effect. The effect can become the cause just as easily because it can deliver the same response which is similar to English Language because it can only become disorganized as we the writers or influencers make it. It is significant to me because it makes a reader think in an entirely different way after reading this statement. As a reader, there are many texts where there are cause/effect narratives but never about the end consequence being the cause. The statement that the effect (consequences) can also become the cause is being shown the similarity between the English language because it is reversible. I think Orwell is trying to convey that our modern English language makes it easier for us to be susceptible to barbaric thoughts.
One of the several examples Orwell offers that most disturb him are operators or verbal false limbs. Essentially not simply writing one word but instead creating a phrase. I do see this example in writings up to this day. As for my writing, I do see this being an error when I write but I tend to fix it afterward because like Orwell stated it is easier but is seen as poor writing at the end. Orwell’s critique of these bad writing techniques is to be taken lightly as certain readers and even writers use these techniques to their advantage in order to emphasize their point and although these techniques may disturb him another would use it for their benefit as it is only one mans words.
Language use and politics intersect heavily for me because it conveys different messages that one may interpret as correct when you dig deeper it is futile and irrelevant or like Orwell states, “is designed to make lies sound truthful.” One example would be the differences between describing someone as being “pro-gun,” “pro-control,” or “anti-guns.” Each of these terms can deliberately frame the positions in different ways and lead to twisted meanings due to the underlying misunderstanding.
Gabriela, I was not able to understand anything in the first paragraph of this post:
“This particular statement means although it normally is cause and effect the effect can become the cause just as easily because it can deliver the same response. It is significant to me because you never hear anything about the effect is the cause and he made me realize that it is true, an effect can be the cause and be just as impactful as the cause.” Could you please go back to this post and rewrite it in a way that will be clear and make sense. What are you saying about cause and effect? I’m sure you have an interesting point to make, but your language is not clear at all. Don’t be in such a rush to submit your work as soon as it’s assigned that you don’t do a thoughtful or careful job.
Hi Professor Sylvor, I have edited my response. I look forward to reading your feedback.
I think the final sentence of your first paragraph is the one that most clearly captures what Orwell is talking about in the line you quoted. He is suggesting that the language we use doesn’t just reflect our thoughts; it can shape our thoughts too. This is why sloppy language, in his opinion, is so dangerous. Thanks for revising your post.