Language is a quite remarkable reflection of society and its attitudes. After the Vietnam War and a succession of operational and procurement failures, “the Pentagon” became a term of derision and a public symbol of incompetence. Today, the opposite is true. The Pentagon is seen as representing the most highly regarded sector of American society—the military— though perhaps the perception has swung too far in that direction in lavishing praise especially when the Department must contend with huge and painful budget cuts likely to damage its image.
“Gay” is no longer an adjective. In earlier generations, a “gay, old time” was part of the popular lexicon, meaning happy or fun. The “gay” ‘90’s of more than a century ago certainly would not qualify for the “gay” 90’s of today. It is unclear why or how this change transpired. Yet, it is reflective of the changing attitudes towards sexuality in America.
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