Archive: Opinions

I spent the first three years of my high school hell, I mean, sorry, experience, in a Latin class. I, II, and III, and I can hardly remember the name of the nun who dragged us through agricola, agricolae, Caesar, and Gaul (est tres parte...), but I am grateful for the knowledge of the substance of English that I gained from the hellish experience and myriad nights translating.

I was therefore mightily disappointed when I read that the phrase 'quid pro quo' (literally, 'this for that') would no longer be used by House impeachment panel members. At least the Democrats said they would no longer use it because "the average American doesn't understand Latin". No comment on how Americans understand the give and take of lawmaking, legislating and diplomacy, much as Bismark commented on admiring (but not necessarily observing) the making of sausage and laws.

Well, the ignorance of Latin is definitely a fact, but if we substitute 'extortion' and 'bribery', as proposed by Nancy Pelosi, we would hope to know that the Latin root is 'extortionem' (English: a twisting out, to obtain by force). Or, perhaps, 'bribery', which draws its root through the Old French, thus Latin connection with 'corrupt' or 'corruptionem' (English: spoiling, seducing, or even 'putrid matter'). See, that wasn't so difficult, right?

But, even without English subtitles, the Constitutional drama may continue 'ad infinitum' (English: without end) or some might say the Washington opera may drag out 'ad nauseum' (English: no explanation needed).

But, perhaps we are drawing closer to 'Terra incognito' (English: land unknown) as impeachment becomes inevitable, a Senate trial probable, and the sage may cry out: "Quo bene?" (English: Who benefits?).

The Progressives shout "Caveat emptor!" (English: Beware buyer!) but the conservatives mutter: "Habeus corpus!" (English: Show us the body!). All giving me a painus in cranium.

Perhaps, from the Senate floor during the trial may come the wail of "Ignoramus!" (English: from the British grand jury charge of 'we don't know'). Or, if the esteemed Senator from South Carolina turns on his Caesar, we may hear the blood soaked cry of his master from the Senate floor: "Et tu, Brute?!" (English: 'And you as well, Brutus?')

However, from the gallery afar, you may hear me, your humble author, stating: "Cogita ergo sum" (English: 'I think, therefore I am') or perhaps I may be cogitating darkly: "Illegitimus non carparandum" (English: My editor may not wish to literally translate).

Thus, 'Quod erat demonstradum' (English: Thus it has been demonstrated). Q.E.D. Maybe.

Anyway, let's all be thankful that Latin's not quite a dead language, yet. And, with hearts and mouths full next Thursday, let us give thanks for our multitude of blessings as Americans, and grateful for our liberties. Amen (English: from the Aramaic, 'So be it').