swearing

Why do we swear? How has swearing evolved, what is its function and how has it influenced our language? Interesting.

"Fucking became the subject of congressional debate in 2003, after NBC broadcast the Golden Globe Awards. Bono, lead singer of the mega-band U2, was accepting a prize on behalf of the group and in his euphoria exclaimed, "This is really, really, fucking brilliant" on the air."

Writer Joe Abercrombie comes out in favor of using real swear words in fantasy novels, despite the "old-time" settings. He doesn't think 'by the holy orb of Zalxoz I will destroy thee!' has as much oomph as 'f**k you!'