And then," continued the clerk, "they send those students out at the end of their course and say, 'Go off and use those big words and long sentences to get all the good, high-paying jobs. And once you're in those jobs, always remember to use long sentences to protect your position. If you use long sentences, nobody will dare remove you. That is an important rule that we have worked out.' That is what they say, Mma-I have heard it on very good authority.
by Alexander McCall Smith
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The clerk shares a critical perspective on the educational system, suggesting that students are taught to use complex language and long sentences as a strategy for securing high-paying jobs. This advice implies that the ability to communicate in an intricate manner is valued over straightforwardness, creating a barrier to job security. The clerk claims that employing such convoluted language serves as a protective measure against job loss, indicating a systemic issue in how qualifications and competence are perceived in the professional world.

This commentary highlights the irony of valuing verbosity over clarity. The clerk's observations suggest that this approach not only perpetuates a cycle where employees rely on ornate language but also raises questions about true understanding and effective communication. The idea that long sentences can safeguard one's position denotes a troubling trend in which clarity and simplicity are sacrificed for the sake of appearances, potentially compromising genuine insight and engagement in professional settings.

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January 23, 2025

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