[TML] an interesting story somewhat related to this thing we do

[Richard Aiken]

On 10/2/07, Glenn M. Goffin <gmgoffin at yahoo.com> wrote:
> The Edward James Olmos movie's version of the meaning of the phrase
> is, as we say in my profession, just plain wrong.

Given how concepts change over time (after all, "awful" used to mean
"filled with awe [at the power of God]") . . .

And the original post (pirates demanding surrender of loot) . . .

The pirates are from a part of Imperial culture where the historical
origin of the relevant phrase was transmitted correctly.  Their
prospective victims are from an area where it was transmitted
incorrectly.  Confusion - and attendent disaster - promptly ensues.

-- 
Richard Aiken

"Never insult anyone by accident."  Robert A. Heinlein