Writing on the wall

Profound perspectives on mundane happenings, smattered with a helping of humour.

Monday, November 28, 2005

Does "Noddy" promote indiscipline?

Going one step ahead of Dr. Anbumani Ramadas, who banned smoking in films, I propose that the made-for-TV computer-generated animation series "Noddy" (created by Enid Blyton) be marked for adult viewing or to be viewed under adult supervision only.

Though Noddy's car is self-aware, the fact is not apparent to the viewer. It is indisputable that Noddy is a sub-teenager sitting behing the wheel of a car. This is a dangerous example for children. You may argue that Noddy is a toy and so is his car, but how come the toys walk by themselves and how many times have you seen grown-ups as passengers in toy cars?

I am sure Lewis Graham wouldn't be thrilled.

Monday, November 21, 2005

Can I open the window for a smoke?

Glad that I have never encountered such people on my flights, although I have had the company of a drunk man who got up a few minutes before take-off because he wanted to go to the bank!

With airfare becoming cheaper thanks to low-cost airlines like Air Deccan or Spice Jet, I am not ruling out the airlines doing cost-cutting and maximising space usage, by removing windows and allowing standees on their flights.

Standing remings me of my friend Abhay's quote:
To win, you have to stand united.
It is OK to stand united, but don't fly United.

Sunday, November 20, 2005

Next, it is "Does anyone proof-read on BBC?"

"Trouble on the line for new SA train" says, "Depending on who you believe...". What is wrong with using "whom" in this context? Rather, what is right about using "who" here?

Gone are the days people used to tune in to BBC to improve their English ... and thankfully so.

Friday, November 18, 2005

Does anyone proof-read on CNN?

25 Most Important Pop Culture Moments mentions that people "poured over Harry Potter books". What did they 'pour' over the books - wine, water, kerosene oil? On second thoughts, do they mean people pored over the books?

On Live Aid concert, "...televisions all over the word," said Daly. I think Daly would have said, "...all over the world".

Two errors in one page begs the question, "Is CNN so understaffed or is it that CNN's staff are so unlettered that no one can proof-read?"