Slate Daily Feed Culture Gabfest - We Found Our Archives: The Abstract Noun Edition
Dec 24, 2025
The hosts dive into intriguing aspects of language, exploring vocabulary, conversation, and voice. They debate the pitfalls of polysyllabic words and discuss the fine line between distinctiveness and self-parody. Fun anecdotes reveal how to transform dull conversations, with tips on asking quirky questions and embracing surprise. The discussion meanders into the impact of editing on clarity and writerly style. Plus, they share personal endorsements including a beloved Christmas album and a clever playlist trick for rediscovering musical gems.
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Prefer Specific Adjectives Over Vague Praise
- Avoid vague praise like 'compelling' or overused labels like 'iconic' unless truly warranted.
- Dana Stevens recommends choosing more specific adjectives to convey precise meaning.
Conversation As A Creative 'Third Thing'
- Great conversation balances courtesy and flow with honesty, humor, and surprise.
- Stephen Metcalf highlights conversation as a 'third thing' that produces words you didn't know you had.
Chomsky–Foucault Debate Example
- Stephen Metcalf recounts the Chomsky–Foucault debate on Dutch TV as a model of surprising, meaningful disagreement.
- He notes the legend that Foucault was paid in a brick of hash and Chomsky refused to smoke it on air.