The passage of time bears witness to not only the addition of new words to the vernacular (e.g., “texting”), the change in meaning of some words (e.g., “sick”, “dope”), and the level of acceptance of others. The “N” word falls into the latter category. It’s heard today more in certain circles than in other demographic groups. Also, it’s accepted in certain groups while nearing the level of anathema in others.
With my military background (Army) I recall hearing it considerably and far more frequently while I was on active duty than today in civilian life. It was sometimes used simply in passing, while in other situations it was spat out in disgust as if the speaker had encountered an only partially cooked snail in an escargot appetizer. Then again, that’s understandable and to be expected, given the nature of military service.
As a cadet at West Point I found it a frequent intruder in daily dialogue. Again, sometimes in casual conversation, while at other times in vehement exclamations of contempt. Its level of acceptance depended upon the nature of the discussion as well as whose ears were reached.
Personally, I rarely use it today except in occasional conversation. The confluence of recent events, however, have found me using it more in my interactions with fellow classmates and even in some of my writings, as exemplified by this post. Today, the stigma of using the word has been lifted for me, if even only temporarily. So, allow me to take a deep breath, and…here it comes…
Navy
Ah, yes! The exhalation was easy with me being freed of any verbal constraints imposed by societal norms.
Gaze upon these 170 pounds of pride and achievement and weep, swabbies. See you next year!
~ Dempsey 🌵
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© Trophy Photograph United States Military Academy at West Point
Chalk Dust 