Previous by Date | Next by Date | Date Index
Previous by Thread | Next by Thread
| Thread Index
| LM_NET
Archive
| |
I read an article in the news about the nation section stating that a board member of a theatre/performing center somewhere resigned because the Vagina Monologues playing there included the word "vagina" on the theatre's billboard. The rest of the board refused to demand its removal. The man complained that he didn't want children to have to ride by the theatre and see that "word." The absurdity of this man's outrage made me realize just how excessive some of the initial reaction to the word "scrotum" has been in The Higher Power of Lucky. What are body parts supposed to be called? Did the guy want them to put the name up as the "Female Private Part Monologues," or worse yet, "Female Unmentionables Monologues?" Why is it inappropriate to call body parts by their appropriate names? Isn't it better for children to learn the actual names, than to use euphemisms that make body parts sound like a dirty little secret? If we treat body parts like they're something to be ashamed o! f, then what bizarre lesson are we teaching children? Of course, on the other hand, opposition of these appropriate terms and the controversies that ensue sure do provide excellent free advertising for the products that contain the "words." I'm not so sure that I would have run out and immediately purchased The Higher Power of Lucky if the surrounding controversy hadn't erupted over it. I just finished reading it, and I am grateful for the controversy sparking my curiosity. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and was charmed by the Lucky character, as well as Miles and Lincoln. As Lucky is scientifically inclined, the appropriate name, scrotum, fits in nicely. Her curiosity about its meaning is a natural curiosity, in sync with her character. Kathy Reel Former English/Writing Teacher New Librarian Looking for Job Owensboro, KY ________________________________________________________________________ Check out the new AOL. Most comprehensive set of free safety and security tools, free access to millions of high-quality videos from across the web, free AOL Mail and more. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Please note: All LM_NET postings are protected by copyright law. You can prevent most e-mail filters from deleting LM_NET postings by adding LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU to your e-mail address book. To change your LM_NET status, e-mail to: listserv@listserv.syr.edu In the message write EITHER: 1) SIGNOFF LM_NET 2) SET LM_NET NOMAIL 3) SET LM_NET MAIL 4) SET LM_NET DIGEST * Allow for confirmation. * LM_NET Help & Information: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ * LM_NET Archive: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/archive/ * EL-Announce with LM_NET Select: http://elann.biglist.com/sub/ * LM_NET Supporters: http://www.eduref.org/lm_net/ven.html --------------------------------------------------------------------