The American Spectator

Once again one of your contributors has me puzzled, and then amused.

In a country where pornography is on open sale and, indeed, is the country with one of the world’s largest porn industries we are faced with a column written by Clinton W. Taylor that is simperingly embarrassed and prim. Coy and prudish even.

What has made me think this way?

It’s Mr. Taylor’s use of varied euphemisms for the simple concept of a toilet. In one article, he gives us “restroom,” “washroom” and “bathroom.”

Of course, we in England have gained the word “loo” over recent years, although that does have a fairly ancient root.

But “bathroom”? Surely that’s where you’ll find a bath. Possibly a shower and toilet, as well. And “restroom”? Who on earth thought that one up? And I have to say that in the rare situation where “washroom” is heard in England, it would refer to the laundry room where one would find the washing machine.

Why do not Americans use the terms WC, lavatory or even toilet?

Truly we are two peoples separated by a common language.