Quote by Gore Vidal

As societies grow decadent, the language grows decadent, too. Words are used to disguise, not to illuminate, action: you liberate a city by destroying it. Words are to confuse, so that at election time people will solemnly vote against their own interests

As societies grow decadent, the language grows decadent, too

Summary

This quote highlights how language can be manipulated in corrupt societies. As the society becomes morally and culturally deteriorated, the use of language also declines. Rather than serving to convey truth or clarity, words are employed to deceive and obscure actions. The example given demonstrates how destructive acts can be misleadingly portrayed as acts of liberation. Furthermore, language is used to confuse individuals, particularly during elections, so that they may unknowingly vote against their own self-interests. In this context, the quote emphasizes how language can be weaponized to manipulate and control the masses in decadent societies.

Topics

Language

By Gore Vidal

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