On the use of words

My Tech research is challenging in that simplification of subject matter requires a thorough understanding thereof. Throughout the process of writing and rewriting what I have established on my subject (Talismans), I am humbled by previous writings, as each time I know a little more. It is so true that the more we know, the more we are aware of what we don't actually know.

I have this treasure of a book called 'The hidden Teaching Beyond Yoga', written by Dr Paul Brunton, first published in 1941. It is pretty fascinating, he speaks about everything from spirituality to politics to thoughts to objects to his understanding of Truth.

On the subject of 'words' and 'verbal clarification', he quotes distinguished London professor John Macmurray from his book 'Freedom in the Modern World':


"When I undertook the task of expressing my own philosophy in non-philosophic language, I found, with considerable astonishment, how vague was my own apprehension of the real meaning of technical terms which I habitually used with considerable precision."

"Words are but servants of thought", says Brunton, "and like all servants should be kept in their proper place... It is a common mistake to assume that the meanings of most words are self evident".

I take this in quietly, and roll it over like a sweet on the tongue, tasting tentatively, hesitant to say more.

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