In Thomas Pynchon's "Bleeding Edge," a notable observation is made regarding the proficiency of some staff members who assert they barely know English except for a couple of terms like “awesome” and “sucks.” This reflects a broader commentary on communication and the essential vocabulary necessary for navigating various aspects of life and work.
Despite their limited language skills, these individuals manage to convey emotions and opinions effectively, demonstrating that mastery of a language is not solely defined by the breadth of vocabulary but also by the ability to express thoughts and feelings clearly. Their experiences illustrate that in many situations, basic expressions can suffice to engage meaningfully with others.