(On the Australian National Anthem): It's just not the most inspiring anthem in the world is it? I mean, the words are alright: 'Australians all let us rejoice, for we are young and free', except for that last line 'our home is girt by sea.' 'Cos 'girt' means surrounded. How many of you have ever used the word 'girt' in a sentence in your life? Seriously, you never see a policeman and 4 police cars outside your house saying : 'Come out of there with your hands up, we have you girt.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker critiques the Australian national anthem for using obscure words like girt.
- In plain terms
- The anthem uses old words most people do not use anymore.
- What can you take from it?
- Official language should be clear to everyone.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes a language outdated?
- Who decides anthem words?
Another view
Some traditional words have historical value beyond utility.
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