In the political jargon of those days, the word "intellectual" was an insult. It indicated someone who did not understand life and was cut off from the people. All the Communists who were hanged at the time by other Communists were awarded such abuse. Unlike those who had their feet solidly on the ground, they were said to float in the air. So it was fair, in a way, that as punishment the ground was permanently pulled out from under their feet, that they remained suspended a little above the floor.
In the political climate of the time, the term "intellectual" became derogatory, signifying a disconnect from the common people and a lack of practical understanding of life. Those labeled as such, particularly Communists who fell out of favor with their peers, were often ridiculed for their perceived detachment and inability to relate to everyday experiences. This alienation was highlighted by their fates, where they were removed from power and faced dire consequences.
The irony of their punishment was that those deemed "intellectual" found themselves literally and metaphorically suspended, as if they were hovering without a firm foundation. This served as a stark reminder of the precariousness of their position in society and the harsh reality of their political landscape. Their disconnect ultimately led to a reality where they were relentlessly pushed from the ground they once stood on, symbolizing the consequences of being seen as out of touch with the collective struggles of the people.