In my last column I unveiled my verbal detox™ concept, which involves using as few words as possible to convey your meaning. I promised some practical examples and an introduction to the man I credit with planting the idea for the verbal detox™ in my mind. Once written, twice distilled To recap, going on […] Read more
Caryn Gootkin revisits her favourite hunting ground with a fresh perspective. It’s been a while since I used this column to beat the plain language drum. In October last year we published a special International Plain Language Day edition of The Media Online. I put together a two-part unofficial plain language guide which you can […] Read more
Following her last column on religious fanaticism and the Woolies Halaal hot cross bun fiasco, Caryn Gootkin looks at political correctness, Google and matzah puddings, in no particular order. My first reaction to the Halaal hot cross bun uprising was that it was one big matzah pudding. Don’t worry; I don’t intend bringing kosher food […] Read more
Caryn Gootkin was amused at the outrage with which some Christians swallowed the news that their Easter treats carried Halaal certification. It made her think about how manically we defend our religious practices. Most people know that Karl Marx declared that “religion … is the opium of the people.” However, few realise either the full […] Read more
Caryn Gootkin was offended by the name her neighbourhood watch used to enlist volunteers for a midnight mountain patrol. Unsure whether her outrage was justified, she explored the meaning and origins of the word ‘skollie’ and examined her own reaction to this word. My local neighbourhood watch, which is both efficient and effective, called on […] Read more
Caryn Gootkin bemoans the modernising of classic children’s books. The words and expressions which so aptly captured the flavour of their era are gone and in their place are bland alternatives. I grew up with Julian, Dick, Anne, Georgina (George) and their dog, Timothy (Timmy). I feel like I explored Kirrin Island with them under […] Read more
