Category: Rants

For a long time I have had a problem with the outright misuse of grammar as well as the death of the English language in our society. I’m tired of hearing “I’s Guyanese” as an excuse for the incorrect usage of the language. Even if I am to (reluctantly) excuse the misguided babblings of the ignorant person on the street, I most certainly will not excuse those in the media who are being paid to ensure that messages are related clearly, effectively and structurally correct to the public. I have recorded only a few examples but rest assured I will be on the look out for additions for the article as I continue to ask the question “What is the purpose of the editor?”

• I was very upset to hear a repeat of bad grammar as the annual August 1st activities at the National Park were announced. Last year the public was informed that on August 1st “all roads leads to the National Park.” We were again graced with this announcement, but I am pleased to note that they finally heard their error and corrected it. It only took them one year.
• There is a bookstore located in the vicinity of the bus park-if you do not know it, it matters not. But for a few weeks the store’s slogan was “Education Build’s A Nation.” When I first saw it I was appalled, especially because of the type of establishment. I had planned on either going in to or calling them as they seemed to be unaware of the error, but was glad to see it changed without my input.
• While this year’s “GT&T Jingle and Song Competition” was coming to a close it was announced over and over, and over again that “the Finals of the GT&T Jingle and Song Competition Finals will be held” on whatever date. Have mercy. I can tolerate, not understand, but tolerate that being aired once, and maybe even twice, but not several times right up to the very event. It was completely inexcusable.
• Double Day International Hotel, Restaurant and Bar had a notice on the television stating that they offer, among other things “a relax and spacious environment” and also “stock alcohol and non-alcohol beverages.” Enough said.
• In the August 24th edition of the Kaieteur News an article on my absolute favourite local artiste Mr. Edward Neblett went a little something like this: “Employed at Scotia Bank this talented, focused, family-oriented and God-fearing are words which best describes gospel singer Edward Neblett.” What?

I do not understand exactly why people continue to be paid to “ensure” that everything is as it should be when this is what they produce on the radio, television and in the newspapers.

-Bless

Many of my most disturbing experiences when just trying to conduct my business, revolve around those persons who are working at certain places simply because bills need to be paid.

It is sad that so many people never seem to realize the dreams they held as children- to become a doctor, a lawyer, a policeman, a singer. It is sad that they have had to settle for “a lil guard wuk at di school up di road” or “lil hold on cleanin Miss Mavis house.” I feel for them; really I do, but IT IS NOT MY FAULT!

Why so many Guyanese employees seem unable to keep personal issues off the professional scene is beyond me. And I will probably never understand why they feel the need to roll their eyes, suck their teeth and grunt at me as though I am seeking a favour. I am not the reason GPL cut off your light, GT&T cut off your phone, you have no lunch, you and Charlie broke up, and you are on the verge of living on the street. I am aware that I may be coming across as an iceberg, but that is not the case at all. But, do pardon the absence of my apology when I disturb you from that oh so important telephone conversation filling Susan in on “di tek ups wit Rachael and she chile faduh.” And pardon my lack of understanding as to why when I buy original chicken I cannot get some hot sauce because it is for people who buy spicy chicken- now theirs is hot already, I would think mine is the one that would need the sauce but I guess I am just twisted like that.

If someone could tell me why the employees at stores that insist on prices like $1186.00, seem more annoyed than I when I stand there waiting quite patiently for my $4.00 I’d be much obliged.

Have you ever noticed that for a long time the Passport Office and Immigration at Timehri seemed to have the most dissatisfied, unpleasant, miserable-looking persons working for them? I was always quite displeased to be greeted by sour faces upon returning home. I’m happy to see that this is no longer the case at Timehri, but the employees at Passport Office could really do with some polishing, and lessons on smiling and speaking to people like they are people and not animals.

It would do these and all other “Disgruntled Employees of the Year” a world of good if they’d keep in mind that “if at the end of the day everything doesn’t turn out just perfect, SO WHAT?”

-Bless