In a recent episode of the Slate Culture Gabfest, hosts Steve Metcalf, Dana Stevens, and Julia Turner delved into the nuances of language, sparking a lively conversation about the word “eschew.” The discussion, part of a special segment titled “The Abstract Noun Edition,” revisited a 2013 gem from the archives, highlighting how certain words can impact communication.
Exploring Language and Its Impact
The episode emphasizes that words carry weight beyond their definitions. The Gabfest team examined why it might be best to avoid terms like “eschew,” which is often perceived as pretentious or overly formal. Instead, they encouraged listeners to embrace clearer and more accessible language in everyday conversation.
Throughout the discussion, the hosts invoked their favorite authors and shared linguistic pet peeves. They posed intriguing questions about the boundaries between a compelling voice and self-parody. This exploration showcases the vibrant interactions that can occur when discussing language, inviting listeners to reflect on their own word choices.
Listeners are encouraged to consider the meaning of words such as “shibboleth,” which refers to a custom or usage that distinguishes one group from another. Understanding such terms can enhance communication, but using them indiscriminately might alienate audiences.
Recommendations and Upcoming Events
In a playful segment, the hosts also shared their personal recommendations from 2013. Dana Stevens highlighted a CD collection of folk carols titled The Sounding Joy, produced by Smithsonian Folkways Recordings and performed by Elizabeth Mitchell. Julia Turner suggested creating personalized playlists to rediscover beloved tracks. Meanwhile, Steve Metcalf brought attention to the intriguing “Monty Hall problem,” a probability puzzle originally described by Marilyn vos Savant in Parade Magazine.
For those in New York, an upcoming event on January 5 features Steve Metcalf in conversation with Booker Prize finalist Ben Markcovits about their work titled The Rest of Our Lives. This engagement offers a unique opportunity to explore language and culture in a live setting.
The Slate Culture Gabfest continues to be a vital platform for cultural criticism, with The New York Times critic Dwight Garner describing it as “one of the highlights of my week.” With insightful commentary from Metcalf, Stevens, and Turner, the podcast remains a key source for discussions on contemporary culture, language, and beyond.
Listeners can access the podcast through various platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify, making it easy to engage with these thought-provoking discussions no matter where they are.
