Re: Super-superlatives and glorious-glory
Mr. Burr is not alone. Neither is Mr. Cook. And I also agree it is a
matter of style (somewhat). I don't tend to think, write or speak in
constant superlatives, either.
Thus, we may all agree to disagree and not take any of this personally. Or
so I hope. Words used to describe a particular product do not add to its
bottom-line functionality or usefulness. At times, however, "over kill" can
tend to desensitize or detract from a word's impact. If we constantly call
R:Base glorious in its present incarnation, what shall we call it when it
moves another step higher? Super glorious? Super-duper glorious?
Super-duper-duper glorious? I am sure you get the point.
So perhaps we can leave it as a "style" issue and let it go in this
particular medium of a list-serve. However, as a cautionary note, in a more
"corporate" mainstream environment I would seriously consider NOT
approaching a client with a description of R:Base as "glorious" or some
other such superlative. I won't. I prefer to keep my job.
To go a step further, "glorious" tends to step into religious territory. A
slippery slope and not one particular suited to database developers in a
professional capacity. A careful understanding of the definition of "glory"
will reserve its use, I hope. And no, let's NOT get into a semantic war.
At least not today?
Mainstream America is not particularly fond of anything being touted too
heavily - skeptics as we all are - and any superlative description will
raise suspicion more than blind belief. Blame it on the advertising
industry.
Now, before the faithful get too tightly wound, let me explain that I have
been a strong supporter of R:Base since 1991. I also appreciate the efforts
and support the kind Dr. M. has put into continuing the product. I am not
insulting anyone nor am I casting stones. Nor pebbles. Not even dirt!
But I ask: What other product, taken seriously and examined carefully, uses
superlatives in its description of itself? As far as "style" goes, one must
be ever mindful the purpose is to SELL the product and service - and to let
results speak for themselves.
Would you go and buy a box of "Glorious Wheaties" or "Stupendous Corn
Flakes"? Or even a "Glorious Maserati"? The addition of superlatives tends
to detract from the delivery of the message itself. Sometimes, less is
more.
Let the product speak for itself. It is, quite simply, the best database
product in its niche.
Ken Brown
PosiTrak, Inc.
