*BLEEP*storm

I am a lover of the written word. I have read hundreds of books; I have become a translator because of my love for words and the fact that I am simply not anywhere near creative enough to write a book myself (but dream of translating one). I'd rather read than watch a movie and a beautiful piece of writing can evoke the entire range of emotions in me. If you want to know what I mean, heck out the writing of the wonderful Chantel or Jessica's beautiful poems.

Having said that, I have a new pet peeve: the word "shitstorm". Yes, I said it. I cannot hear it any more, I cannot read it any more. Since when is it acceptable to use a word like that in the media? And I'm not talking some trash paper but even political magazines. I cannot believe it! Is it really necessary? Why is it all of a sudden not just acceptable but almost fashionable to use this word (and I am talking German media!)? It's not cool, it's not funny, and it's definitely not clever! It's trashy, nothing more.

Immediate disqualification!

I have to admit, that there is a time and a place even for four-letter words, but I simply cannot stand casual use of them. And yes, there may also be a time and a place for the *bleep*storm, but it's taking over. A *bleep*storm about a referee's decision during a soccer game, a *bleep*storm on some star's comment, a *bleep*storm after some immature crooner's entry in a guest book. I'm done! Seriously, what's wrong with "storm of outrage", or "outcry of rage", or whatever, but *bleep*storm?? Really?

Dear Journalists:

I kindly ask you to remember your profession. Fecal teenager-lingo is not appropriate for publication! It is not fit or archiving and I would not appreciate if the first word my daughter can spell after her name is *bleep*storm.

Thank you!

Sincerely,

Stephanie