Some Words About a Conrad Cartoon

John Grant’s comments (Letters, Jan. 29) regarding Conrad’s cartoon (Jan. 14) contained no less than 44 strange words. Most of these five and six-syllable words are never heard in normal conversations, and less than half are ever printed in the great newspapers of today.

Although the words are authentic and were properly used, there are easier ways to express thoughts. In our era of speed reading requirements, a constant bombardment of complex wording is not conducive to smooth reading.

Grant’s letter is an excellent example of a literary turn-off. For his benefit as well as others who enjoy a maximum use of the English language, let me assure that the sophism is neither spurious nor exogenous.

JOHN E. MARTIN

Arcadia