TWAIN-L Archives

Mark Twain Forum

TWAIN-L@YORKU.CA

Options: Use Forum View

Use Monospaced Font
Show Text Part by Default
Condense Mail Headers

Message: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Topic: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]
Author: [<< First] [< Prev] [Next >] [Last >>]

Print Reply
Sender:
Mark Twain Forum <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Wed, 26 Jun 1996 18:08:23 -0400
Jun 26, 96 04:04:55 pm:
Jun 26, 96 04:04:55 pm
Reply-To:
Mark Twain Forum <[log in to unmask]>
Subject:
From:
Vicki Richman <[log in to unmask]>
Content-Transfer-Encoding:
7bit
In-Reply-To:
<[log in to unmask]> from "Athan Chilton"
Content-Type:
text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
MIME-Version:
1.0
Parts/Attachments:
text/plain (22 lines)
Yes, the word is quite common in light banter among many
African-Americans, but not with the meaning you suggest, at
least not here on the edge of Bed-Stuy. It suggests
comradeship, mutual support, understanding of a common
struggle to survive. It also excludes outsiders, who use the
word only at their peril.

The word also deflates pomposity, putting on airs. In that
sense, it may give offense to some.

In African-American banter, the word is neither pejorative
nor commonplace. It is a catchword signaling membership in
an exclusive club.

However, middle-class African-Americans, especially those
politically active, are trying to end that use of the word.
That is mistake. As George Carlin teaches, words are
harmless without harmful intent by the speaker.

Vicki Richman
Bedford, Brooklyn NY

ATOM RSS1 RSS2