End of Euphemism

* In response to “The End of the Age of Euphemism,” by Neal Gabler, Opinion, Jan. 2:

If Gabler is correct (I do not believe so) that the price we pay for candor requires we live within an endless pornographic movie, then the price is too high.

Most of what he seeks to excuse on the grounds of candor is simply in bad taste.

PAUL J. SHETTLER

Corona del Mar

* Is not one man’s “euphemism” another’s language for civilized discourse?

Perhaps the word civilized is the greatest euphemism of all. If so, onward to the new honesty and the new neolithic society, with sewage and open toilets for all.

MIMI KAUFMAN

Los Angeles