University of Virginia Library

Visitor 'Shocked'

During a recent visit to
Charlottesville I was shocked at the
many instances of obscene language
that I heard while browsing at the
"Corner." Perhaps these young
people forgot they were not in the
confines of their dormitory rooms.
Even if they did indeed forget, it is
shameful that this flippant and
embarrassing language is so prevalent
among today's younger generation.
Aren't they supposed to be
preparing for roles in American
society?

This language, thank the Lord,
will never be accepted by the better
part of American society — good,
clean, honest working Americans.
Such people as these have made this
country the finest in the world.
Such people as these will continue
to do so. However, I do not think
the problem of obscenity can be
honestly dealt with by praising the
fine upbringing of the majority.

I believe the cause of obscene
language in the streets is the
prevalence of obscenity in motion
pictures, literature, and plays. The
solution seems to be strictly
enforced laws curtailing the
publication and proliferation of
such garbage. Reason dictates this
as the only solution.

Surely the law should protect
people from not only physical
attacks on the streets, but verbal
attacks on their upbringing as well.
Virginia's legislators should actively
pursue passage of anti-obscenity
laws. Perhaps they are not offended
by obscenity on the streets, but I
certainly am!