In his book "Calypso," David Sedaris explores the differences in language use between France and America, highlighting the cultural attitudes reflected in common expressions. In France, the word "connerie," which translates to "bullshit," is a frequently used term that conveys disappointment or frustration. This suggests a candidness in expressing life's absurdities in French culture.

Conversely, Sedaris points out that the American vernacular has adopted "awesome" as a catch-all term for anything positive, replacing words like "incredible" or even "good." This trend demonstrates a tendency among Americans to inflate the significance of experiences, where nearly everything that isn't outright bad is considered awesome, showcasing a more enthusiastic approach to everyday life.