Subtitles or closed-captions for the hearing-impaired: Most movies and TV shows have them. But what about subtexts? i.e. the underlying implications, or real meaning behind people’s words? Our world seems increasingly bent on implying subtexts that aren’t actually there. Why?
Think of it as opportunistic misinterpretation. In politics and social media these days, even in face-to-face communications, opportunistic misinterpretation has reached pandemic levels. Anything you say–or don’t say–can and will be used against you!
As a writer, blogger, social-networker, or even as a conversationalist, have you ever wished your words could have subtitles for the truth-impaired? I have. Oh, have I! Therefore…
I humbly propose that Apple or Samsung develop a brain-to-mouth (and screens) app that adds AIM (Actual Intended Meaning) subtitles to everything we communicate. From now on, all media, news, tweets, texts, status updates, dinner conversations, off-handed comments, and even pillow talk will be accompanied by communicator-approved…
Subtitles for the truth-impaired!
Bit like having the small print smeared across every sentence 🤔🤭
Such a great idea!
What are your thoughts ?, on next-generation financial systems, decentralization, and cutting-edge developments in global economics and technology.
😆 Your graphics! “Meow” (screamed or not) might help more than words (screamed or not) do!
Stares in Japanese. Hilarious.
Disclosing subtitles–like it! And your examples!
;>)
😂🤣
Talking about subitles, I was surprised that for about 2 or 3 years (I don’t know it anymore) I noticed that in movies which are not originally German they began showing subtitles about anyhting that appears in a picture. For example, a police car stands at the side and the word “police” is visible on that car, they truly show subtitles with the German translation. This is so stupid.
I gain new appreciation on the possibilities of the English language in many of your posts, Mitch. First there was “diarrhea excited” and now there is “opportunistic misinterpretation.” I will use these excellent descriptions in my own blog at some point. (Of course, with attribution!)
I’m honored, Don.
Keeping my mouth shut seems to take care of most of this type of thing…
Haha! Thanks for this chuckle, Mitch. The idea of some “one” or some “thing” deciding on my reality (or yours) seems a bit unnerving.
I thought the same thing!
“I AIM for you to know the truth, the whole truth, so help me God.”
I like it. I also want subtitles for the tooth impaired. They find it hard to swallow the whole truth. 🙂
;>)
It sounds like a great idea, but I wouldn’t trust ChatGPT to read between the lines. It hallucinates even with simple sentences. A war of nuclear verbal proportions could incite! Some people will misread anyway, because they want so. We would need a reading between the lines between the lines between the lines…
;>)
I love your aim for AIM. I think we are in misinformation overload even in what should be more straightforward conversations.
I always wish I could understand the implied message to what is being said and same the other way around.
😅👍🏻
This could come back and bite you!
;>)
Everything carries a truth — it just depends on your angle.
From a drone it looks one way, underwater another,
and after a bottle of whisky… well, that’s a whole new truth.
So yes, subtitles for the truth-impaired —
and for those who don’t get it on purpose.
A poem with subtitles for every word?
Better head to the bathroom instead.
;>)
I remember watching a French movie where there was an explosion and the subtitle was ‘ a big bang , a really big bang, a really really big one’. Sadly the tense moment was suddenly lost on me.
That’s hilarious, Gary!
“before you punch me i moustache you a question” quite hilarious!🤣.
Great post.
Ha so true… 😂😂😂
I second and third you and these also comes with terms and conditions 😄.
“Stares in Japanese” is my favorite.
Your Actual Intended Meaning subtitles concept sounds like a great idea. Unfortunately, it will most likely fall victim to autoconnect.
I mean autocollect.
I mean autocolorectal.
I give up.
;>)
😂🤣👍