LETTERS ON LETTERS

Regarding Carol Chastang’s Mar. 3 letter concerning Barbara Harrison’s “Pure Gore” (Jan. 28), I wish to say that Miss Chastang’s choice of the adjective pretentious for someone with a good vocabulary is unfortunate.

Although this advertises her own intellectual inadequacy, the perception is not uncommon. There actually exists in our country a great number of individuals who communicate daily in the English language, in their private lines, in business, etc., and who resist--moreover resent--learning new words, calling them “obscure.” A pity! As Alexander Pope put it, “The fool is happy that he knows no more.”

LUCILLE BARNETT

Oceanside