We have all seen it. It is now all the rage to begin any commentary with the word “so.” Whether it be by a Facebook user or a talk-show interviewer, you must start with “so” if you want to be relevant.
What is the actual purpose of the word “so?” It is just a little unassuming connecting word that makes it clear that the following comment is related to the preceding comment by the same speaker. Usually, it represents a conclusion resulting from a foundational premise. So, what previous phrase or thought is being connected when your Facebook “friend” says:
“So Jayden wouldn’t eat his peas until Mee-Maw soaked them in yummy butter.”
(Forgive the use of multiple distracting retch-worthy verbal devices in that example when I am supposed to be focused on “so.”) You skim back to the user’s previous post (if you are borderline suicidal) and see that it has a picture of a flag and some Starbucks whipped beverage and has nothing to do with Jayden or his food eccentricities.
Well, what is the purpose of the word “so” under these circumstances? It is to show self-centered arrogance. That what I have to say is what matters. I am undergoing a continuing life dialogue, so I am always ignoring you and everyone else—or at least I have perceived that is fashionable to act like I am doing so—and I am always painting the picture that I am reaching back to my last comments in the ongoing “saga of me” to let you know that’s what really matters.
What if you are listening to your favorite podcast and the interviewer asks a question on a new topic. The interviewee then launches into his answer with, “So….”
What is the point in that? The point is, that I don’t really care about you or your question, or…