Out of Egypt:

the joys of etc.

For some reason recently, I find myself whenever I make a list in writing (of examples, etc.), using the word "etc." as a terminator. See, I just did it. I'm not sure exactly why this is. It might be something I've picked up from Derrida - didn't he say something about how "etc." is used in lists because to do otherwise would be to suggest completeness, an ideal that can never be attained. (If someone could find that quote, which is lost in the vagarities of my half-memory, I'd much appreciate it.) In any case, whether he said it or not, it's a proposal for honesty in speech that reminds me of the Apostle James' injunction to always add "Lord willing" to our statement about the future, since we do not know what tomorrow will bring and we must be humble to submit to His unfolding purpose for our lives.

Of course, "etc." also reminds me of The King and I. But I'd prefer to be doing it for high-minded philosophical reasons rather than as a cutesy fad.

I have to remember when using "etc." though to include enough terms in my list for readers to pick up on the logical connection: sometimes I find myself naming one thing and then saying "etc.," which is convenient for me but a little too opaque for them.