July 16, 2004

Impulse control

I struggle with impulse control every day. Usually, I succeed. My most recent victory is as follows:

* * *

Telephone Call. Ring, ring.

Reception: "Big Fat Advertising Company" (client)

Me: Mr. Big Fat Executive, please

Reception: Who may I say is calling?

In stunning display of impulse control, I did NOT say the following:

Me: Ramon from the clinic. I have the results of his, test, if you know what I mean. Should I just give them to you?

* * *

This was merely a test of the impulse control system. If this had been a real impulse control failure, you'd either by fired by now or on your knees thanking whatever god you pray to that Mr. Big Fat Executive has a good sense of humor and an appreciation for 80's film references* (in this case, Beverly Hills Cop).

* Editorial Change: "references" replaces the word "allusions" in the original post as per the suggestion of Grammar Queen in the comment section. Thanks, GQ.

Posted by Random Penseur at July 16, 2004 10:59 AM
Comments

Not to be picky, RP, but your most excellent homage to Eddie Murphy was in fact a quotation, perhaps a reference, but certainly not an allusion. An allusion, as you know, is a hint, or suggestion and does not ever refer directly to the topic/item in question. I must rail a little against this particular mistake, because I feel that the gentle subtlety of the word is slowly eroding... Many people seem to use allude/allusion instead of refer/reference, and it saddens me.
Otherwise, please allow me to commend you on your strong impulse-control, which, as we know, is much more challenging towards the end of the week as freedom approaches...

Posted by: GrammarQueen at July 16, 2004 11:16 AM

Chastisement duly noted and accepted.

Posted by: RP at July 16, 2004 11:24 AM
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