Tuesday
February 13, 2001
Culture clash
You have definitely been in the hot seat lately with all the controversy
you stir up ["Power
of one", "Persian
Watch Dog"]. Something tells me you actually love it though...
right?
You know, I can't help but think much of the antipathy towards Mr. Mirfendereski
stems from a basic culture clash. His thought processes and use of language
are very Western. Almost no one else that contributes to your journal exhibits
the same level of skill in language usage or logical thinking.
His arguments are very clear, concrete, and lacking in emotion. Exactly
the opposite of the style of expression many Iranians value, let alone
display.
We can't forget that as a lawyer, his living comes from his ability
to argue successfully. To gather and analyse information, formulate strategies
and deliver opinions.
Because his use of language is superior, it is easy to feel he is being
condescending... especially if you are insecure. If you are unconsious
and insecure, he is really infuriating. I think people are reacting to
this as much as to what he actually says. I can understand why his style
is threatening to others.
If you cannot compete on the same level and yet have a deep need to
feel superior, Mr Mirfenderski's articles and the tone of his delivery
are really grating.
I suggest that Mr. Mirfenderski submit his articles in Farsi so that
his detractors will misunderstand him less and perhaps feel more competent
in their ability to respond with equal eloquence.
(Dr. Kalantar really should not be writing his own letters in English
["Shocked
and saddened"]. I have no doubt that he is an erudite thinker
with admirable intentions and would have no trouble demonstrating this
in his maternal language, but in English.... ouch!).
Another idea is for Mr Mirfendereski to continue writing in English
but with the addition of a Rashti accent. That way people would feel less
intimidated by his intellect and perhaps be able to comprehend the gist
of his argument without needing to turn him into an unpatriotic villain.
Afterall, everyone loves a good Rashti joke.
Of course my comments are a bit tongue-in-cheek, but only a bit.
Yasmine
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