ashrewdmint/a_word_is_not_that_which_it_means.markdown

## a_word_is_not_that_which_it_means.markdown

      
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    A Word Is Not That Which It Means

By Andrew Smith

A word is not that which it means

A word is just a reference

A name we give to other things

Not to be held in reverence
The universe does not declare

That "sun" is "big round glow-y thing"

But other humans are aware

Their brain can tell its meaning
(Unless someone does not speak English—

In this case, "sun" will be meaningless)
The only aim for words, you see

Is clear communication

There is no "right" or "wrong" per se

But plain elucidation
Now everyone has different brains

Differently wired neurons

Words have a tendency to change

When used by different persons
That's why you should define your terms

So there can be no question

That what I mean is what you read

A trick of substitution

—It will clear up confusion!
When trees fall with no observer

Will they ever make a sound?

Before you answer any further

Let me your intellect astound:

The question is ambiguous

Is "sound" the movement of air?

Or the movement of nerves?

It could mean both

Ask more precise questions next time

So if you ever hear some friends

In argument about a term

Explain that there will be no end

Unless they have this lesson learned:

If you cannot agree

On what a word should be

Just invent another word

And carry on happily