Every writer must begin somewhere. Page one is my blogspot. Here then, I shall blog. Random and thematic shots at the bow of literary endeavors, both mine own and those I adore. Expect the unexpected expectantly. Hey, I grew up in the 50’s and 60’s and I know stuff.

Blog 1 Page 1 *Verispeak” 9/19/21

I feel it’s about time that I started blogging. It is September, after all, and I started this website back in June or July? To use a well worn cliche, “my, how time flies.”

Perhaps I should move my computer and keyboard to the shower. That’s where I often come up with my more brilliant inspirations. That may also explain why some say I’m all wet. Well, never mind. This blog is supposed to contain my random thoughts and at least I’m sticking to that concept.

My random thought for today is the virulent spread of what I call “verispeak.”

For those uninitiated in my random thought processes, “verispeak” is a word not unlike “underwhelmed,” a word my mother was certain she invented back in the 1950’s and came into general usage in the 60’s. (Who is to say?) “Politically correct speech” is a kissing cousin of verispeak, but without the power and authority. George Orwell gave us “newspeak” and the more recent “woke” folks have given us “right-speak,” each are forms of the same thought processes. Verispeak is my contribution to the genre.

In essence, it is the language of the “Influencers” (Another noun or pronoun to add to your collection). It is the official language of the politically powerful desiring to convince, persuade, cajole, coerce and control your thinking. Verispeak is “official truth” as verified and approved by the anonymous powers of officialdom. It shows up repeatedly in the media and is enforced by social websites. Any deviation from verispeak results in censorship, demonization, ridicule and ostracization. (whew!)

Example: All main stream stories about Covid-19 Vaccine, Global Warming, Presidents (past and present), Christianity, LGBTQ, Race relations, read the same and follow the verispeak train. An odd thought or perspective on any of these subjects will be squished. Not just squashed, but squished.

Verispeak is the unholy alliance between politically approved thought and journalism. It is spreading to literature as well and has been a staple of the entertainment industry forever. It just didn’t have a satisfactory name for what it really was. It’s been called propaganda in the past, but that doesn’t pack the punch nor cover the breadth that verispeak has achieved. Today we are seeing absolute lies being touted and accepted as truth and liars testifying to it in every quarter. My advice? Question and verify. Be wise and discerning.

Ephesians 4:14 “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like truth.” NLT

Verispeak: Lies so clever they sound like truth.

Durrone Schuler