From the last discussion that we had in class, I learned that many words may have different meanings, but in some way they all relate to one another. This could be because life is very simple its just we make it harder than what it should be. With that, my word that I had discussed with my group was "simple". I choose this word because it is a word that holds alot of meaning within my life. One I always try to make things as simple as they can be because I feel there is no reason to make it difficult when theres another way thats easier. This word also means alot to me because I am always told that I am a very simple person. It doesnt take much to please me, and when it comes to fashion I am very simple. I like to also call myself simple minded at times, because I dont really think outside the box. I know that that isnt really a good character to hold but it's just how I have always been.
We also discussed devil terms and God terms in class, and I feel that this term is a God term. This in my opinion is a God term because "God- terms" are words that we live by, and although the word simple, isn't necessarily a term we live by, its a way if life. It isn't really a term that is negative. In what ways can simple be used as a devil term?
Simple in my opinion can come off as derogatory. It isn’t necessarily taken as an insult, but depending on the situation it can possibly be a compliment. I would guess that “simple,” can be put in both categories as far as “God-terms” and “Devil-terms”. I wouldn’t use the word “simple” to describe your personality traits, because it takes your credibility away as a person.
ReplyDeleteI understand your reasoning behind the use of “simple” and it can indeed be a “God-term,” because it’s the way you think of yourself. However, I think a better word to describe you would be “uncomplicated,” because you tend to avoid problems and like to remain stress-free. And to answer your question, one way that “simple” can be used by a “Devil-term” would be always trying to take the easy way out of a hard situation. In many cases, a person can be called “simple” and be offended! The use of the word simple can also stand for effortless, meaning you don’t put anything into what you do.
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ReplyDeleteAshton, I'd glad that you brought this issue forward, because it gave Adrianna the opportunity to construct a brilliant response! There is a world of difference between calling yourself "simple" (sounds too close to "simple-minded," which is not a compliment), and saying that you "value simplicity" (or, as Adrianna suggested, saying that you are "uncomplicated").
ReplyDeleteThe bottom line is that simplicity can certainly be a good thing. Henry David Thoreau has written a classic essay on the topic: check out Chapter 2 of his book "Walden" here: http://www.gutenberg.org/catalog/world/readfile?fk_files=1441721
“Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity! I say, let your affairs be as two or three, and not a hundred or a thousand. Instead of a million count half a dozen, and keep your accounts on your thumb-nail.” (Thoreau)