The Daily Word for July 10, 2021

 

pother - noun - commotion or fuss (Lexico.com)

Pother is a term I associate with bother; and if you are a lyricist or poet looking for a memorable end rhyme, you just might have found it.  Commotions or fusses are always on the irksome side, always a pain in the...Well, you know what I mean. Pother began being used in the 16th century (Google.com), but that's all that is known about the origin of the word. It is not exactly on the tip of everyone's tongue these days either. But perhaps it should be. 

Goodness knows there is enough going on that could segue into a pother. Here in Jersey, a pother might occur every ten seconds or so on the roadways. Why? For some ineffable reason, the people in this state suffer from severe impatience, which manifests itself behind the wheel on the roads. For instance, if you are lost in reverie at a traffic light for ten seconds, you are guaranteed a rude awakening from a blast of honking car horns emanating from the rear. And if these vehicular troops dare to pass you upon acceleration, don't be surprised if you see each driver's middle finger saluting in disrespect. It's Jersey. The finger goes a long way in communicating depth of feeling. 

Fortunately or unfortunately, all of us who inhabit the New York metropolitan area are inured to various forms of road rage or pavement pother, but we shouldn't have to be. Those of us who are intolerant should emulate the respect and patience of those visiting from the Midwest and South, rather than wave at them with one finger in frustration if they hesitate one way or the other. Although realistically, I doubt we can change in this regard, I tend to hold onto any degree of optimism. You should, too. 

Happy Saturday to all! 

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