Post from Virginia [posted by Troy through Kim]
I am learning many things here in Virginia. I have to say that the old, gentile southern charm of Virginia is much, much more endearing than the spit-in-the-spitoon, shoot-yer-brother "charm" of Texas. It's a shame these two states are linked with the term "southern." One of the key things that I am learning is about here in old South is the power of the Southern dialect. This is something that we Northerners do not command. Perhaps, the best example that I can offer is the phrase "bless his heart" ("bless her heart"). This figure of speech is generally used after direclty insulting an individual to soften the blow of the insult and make the person giving the insult seem less cruel. These insults are usually spoken in a sweet, sincere voice. For instance, consider this statement: "That dirty, evil scoundrel deserves to die, bless his heart." Or even this one, "She smells like a box of baby-crap, bless her heart." Maybe this one, "If he marries my daughter, I'll make him wish he never hit puberty, bless his heart." If used with a gentle voice, these insults can be delivered in such a way that you sound like you were sorry to insult the person! You wish you didn't have to insult them, but what can you do? I've seen it done! When all you Northerners go to work tomorrow (or to where ever you go during the day), give it a try. I think it works pretty well (especially on Yankees). Say nasty things about people and watch your coworkers try to figure out if you are really insulting them, or just feeling sorry for them.
11:00:04 PM  permanent link Google It!
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