Perspicuity (a poem)

They tell me
Perspicuity
Means “clarity”
But if that’s so
What’s the
Proposed utility
Of saying it this way?

Perhaps the pride of
Sounding smart
By using Latin
Works of art
To prove to
Educated classes
You’re above the
Unwashed masses
Who insist on using
Simple language
(Such as “clear”)
Where gilded words
Perspicuous
Could raise themselves
Conspicuous
Above the tired landscape
Of all clear
Communication

2 thoughts on “Perspicuity (a poem)”

  1. I enjoy looking at the lifespan of a word. Here is the word perspicuity from its inception to 2019. Picture attached. Flat lining in the 1950’s. There must be an attempt to bring it back. Clarity works best for me.

    Kelly Campbell

    Liked by 1 person

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