I boldly assert, in fact I think I know, that a lot of friendships and connections absolutely depend upon a sort of shared language, or slang. Not necessarily designed to exclude others, this can establish a certain comity and, even after a long absence, re-establish it in a second.
Interpretation
Friendships thrive on shared language and experiences, creating bonds that can quickly reconnect people.
Christopher Hitchens emphasizes that friendships often rely on a common language or slang that can foster a sense of community among friends. This shared communication style is not meant to alienate others but rather strengthens the connection, allowing those who have been apart to quickly rekindle their relationship when they reunite.
In practice
In a reunion speech, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of shared experiences.
In a public dialogue with Salman in London he [Edward Said] had once described the Palestinian plight as one where his people, expelled and dispossessed by Jewish victors, were in the unique historical position of being 'the victims of the victims': there was something quasi-Christian, I thought, in the apparent humility of that statement.
What can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence.
Never ask while you are doing it if what you are doing is fun. Don't introduce even your most reliably witty acquaintance as someone who will set the table on a roar.
[E]xceptional claims demand exceptional evidence.
The worst days are when you feel foggy in the head - chemo-brain they call it. It's awful because you feel boring. As well as bored. And stupid. And resigned.
Let me tell you something: for hundreds of thousands of years, this kind of discussion would have been impossible to have, or those like us would have been having it at the risk of our lives. Religion now comes to us in this smiley-face, ingratiating way — because it’s had to give so much more ground and because we know so much more. But you’ve got no right to forget the way it behaved when it was strong, and when it really did believe that it had God on its side.
It is sweet to think I was a companion in an expedition that never ends
Strangers are exciting, their mystery never ends. But, there's nothing like looking at your own history in the faces of your friends.
Come, let us pity those who are better off than we are. Come, my friend, and remember that the rich have butlers and no friends, And we have friends and no butlers. (excerpt from 'The Garrett')
But, of course, it isn't really Good-bye, because the Forest will always be there... and anybody who is Friendly with Bears can find it.
Perhaps the most delightful friendships are those in which there is much agreement, much disputation, and yet more personal liking.
A friend is one soul abiding in two bodies.
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