Lewis Thomas: 'If you want to use a cliche you must take full responsibility for it yourself and not try to fob it off on anon., or on society.'

If you want to use a cliche you must take full responsibility for it yourself and not try to fob it off on anon., or on society.

Lewis Thomas once said, 'If you want to use a cliché, you must take full responsibility for it yourself and not try to fob it off on anon., or on society.' At first glance, this quote may seem like a simple reminder to be accountable for our own words. However, delving deeper, we can explore an unexpected philosophical concept hidden within these words - the power we have as individuals to shape language and influence society.In its simplest form, the quote asks us to own our clichés and not attempt to pass them off as anonymous or societal sayings. It reminds us that if we choose to use a tired and overused expression, be it in writing or in conversation, we must acknowledge that it is our own decision to do so. We cannot blame others or society for the choice of words we make. This notion of taking responsibility for our language is essential because it emphasizes the importance of personal agency and accountability.However, within this seemingly straightforward statement lies a deeper philosophical idea: the power of language in shaping society. While we often perceive clichés negatively as trite and unoriginal, they serve as a testament to the collective influence language has on our collective consciousness. Clichés are expressions that have been used so frequently that they become ingrained in our cultural lexicon. Their repetition and ubiquity make them familiar and easily recognizable, which in turn can foster a sense of community and shared understanding.In a world where communication is crucial to human interaction, clichés act as linguistic shortcuts that bridge the gap between individuals. They enable us to convey complex ideas swiftly by relying on phrases that have been established and widely understood. By using clichés, we tap into a pool of shared experiences and emotions that facilitate effective communication.On the other hand, the overuse of clichés can also lead to a dangerous dilution of meaning. When we rely too heavily on these pre-packaged expressions, we risk losing the nuances and uniqueness of our thoughts and emotions. Clichés become a crutch, shielding us from the vulnerability of expressing ourselves authentically. When we fail to take full responsibility for the words we use, we may inadvertently perpetuate rigid thought patterns and hinder societal progress.As individuals, we have the power to shape the language we use and, consequently, influence society. By taking responsibility for our clichés, embracing originality, and refusing to hide behind societal norms, we can revitalize our language, thereby revitalizing our societal discourse. We can challenge the status quo, question clichéd assumptions, and encourage others to think critically.In conclusion, Lewis Thomas's quote carries a thought-provoking message about the power of language and personal responsibility. It prompts us to reflect on our own words, encourages us to embrace individuality, and inspires us to contribute to the ongoing evolution of language and communication. By acknowledging that we are the architects of our language and the drivers of societal change, we can use our words to build connections, challenge norms, and create a better world.