A Misunderstood Moment in Figurative Expression
A qualified, doctored educator, Dr. Jill Biden, recently used what linguists call “figurative, allegorical phrasing” during a speech and what should have been seen as eloquence quickly became the target of online mockery.
In her address, Dr. Biden said:
“Raul helped build this organization with the understanding that the diversity of this community as distinct as the bodegas of the Bronx, as beautiful as the blossoms of Miami, and as unique as the breakfast tacos here in San Antonio is your strength.”
Her words were a textbook example of figurative language, a literary tool used to enrich speech and convey complex meanings through vivid comparison.
Figurative language refers to the use of words that deviate from their literal meaning to create color, emotion, and clarity transforming ordinary sentences into expressions that resonate deeply.
When Context Meets Outrage
Unfortunately, rather than appreciating her linguistic intent, the headlines told another story. Talk shows like The View, numerous commentators, and even major outlets such as The Washington Post jumped on the soundbite twisting her metaphor into an accusation of cultural insensitivity.
The main criticism? That Dr. Biden “compared Latinos to tacos.”
Yet, the real issue seems less about her phrasing and more about the growing hypersensitivity in today’s public discourse.
She was further criticized for mispronouncing “bodegas”, as if that alone invalidated her message. But where, one must ask, was this same outrage when years of political “Trumpisms” flooded the airwaves filled with intentional language abuse, mockery, and division?
A Double Standard in Expression
It’s astonishing that a woman celebrating diversity through poetic comparison should be vilified, while blatant misuse of language by others often escapes without a second glance.
Had Dr. Biden said, “Trinis around the world are sweet as mango juice,” people of Trinidadian heritage would likely have smiled in pride. It’s a celebration of culture, not a caricature.
But instead, the internet that ever-hungry engine of outrage chose to twist beauty into controversy.
A Call for Perspective
The incident reflects more about society’s readiness to be offended than it does about Dr. Biden’s intentions. We’ve reached a place where poetic speech is dissected, stripped of meaning, and politicized for clicks and outrage.
Maybe it’s time to pause, reflect, and remember the value of language as art, not just politics.
So here’s a new slogan for the future:
“America Wake Up Again.”
