The Meaning Behind ‘See You Next Tuesday’: How We’re Reclaiming the C-Word
It’s Not Just Another Day of the Week
Does anyone else remember watching your mum roll her eyes and tell you “she’s being SUCH a see you next tuesday” about an old friend or distant relative? Or maybe you picked it up watching old reruns of Sex and the City?
However you got exposed to it, you may be confused about its origins and what exactly a see you next tuesday means. In the lexicon of modern English, few phrases evoke as much intrigue and controversy as it. Often cloaked in ambiguity, this phrase is more than a mere appointment for the coming week.
No no no, it’s a powerful linguistic dance around one of the most taboo words in the English language: 'cunt.'
At See You Next Tuesday Media, we've embraced this phrase as our banner, not for shock value, but to reclaim and empower a narrative long steeped in negativity.
The Evolution of the Word ‘Cunt'
The term 'cunt' has a rich and complex history, with its etymology tracing back to diverse linguistic roots. The word is thought to have evolved from the Old Norse "kunta," referring to vulvas, and has connections to various Germanic and Scandinavian languages.
It's interesting to note that in Anglo-Saxon, "Cu" is one of the oldest word sounds, evolving into words like "cow," "cunt," and "queen." The earliest usage of 'cunt' in English was during the Middle Ages and it wasn’t considered an offensive word, showing up casually in Medival texts.
Its origins are also linked to the Hindu Goddess Kunti, who symbolized the beauty and power of the female body, as well as connections to Latin terms like "cuniculus," meaning rabbit hole, and "cunnus," referring to the vulva.
In medieval times, Christian clergy preached about women's genitals as a source of evil, contributing to the negative connotations of the word. This demonization can be seen in the term “Cunnus Diaboli,” which translates to “Devilish Cunt.”
The word 'cunt' has appeared in various forms in literature, from Middle English euphemisms in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" to Shakespeare's works, where he cleverly alluded to it in plays like "Hamlet".
The Cultural Impact of Language
Feminist perspectives on the word 'cunt' in recent history highlight the complex relationship between language and cultural attitudes.
In the 1970s, American feminists, including influential figures like Catharine MacKinnon and Andrea Dworkin, criticized the use of 'cunt' for its dehumanizing connotations. However, there has been a movement among feminists to reclaim the word, not just as acceptable, but as an honorific.
This echoes the broader cultural shifts we've seen with the reappropriation of terms like 'queer' by the LGBT community. Notable feminist activists and artists have contributed to this movement, using 'cunt' in their work to challenge and redefine its meaning.
The history of 'cunt' encapsulates a journey from a term of endearment and respect to one of derision and insult, and now, towards a symbol of empowerment and reclamation. This ongoing struggle against the misogynistic undertones of language reflects the broader efforts to reshape societal norms and perceptions around female sexuality and identity.
Why "See You Next Tuesday"?
A Deliberate Act of Defiance
Choosing See You Next Tuesday (SYNT) as our publication’s name was more than a mere branding decision; it was a deliberate act of defiance and empowerment.
In a world where language is often used to diminish and demean, we stand firm in our belief that it can also be a tool for empowerment and change. Our name is our first step in challenging the status quo.
At SYNT we want to empower the trouble-makers and cultural disrupters of today through curated and captivating content that re-imagines the world around us. We seek to shake up global culture in a way never before done, which is why our name is so important to us.
We celebrate diversity and colouring outside the lines, and taking back the power.
Encouraging Conversational Shifts
By embracing a phrase that has traditionally been seen as unspeakable, we encourage a broader conversation around the reclamation and normalization of such terms. See You Next Tuesday is not just a name; it’s a conversation starter, a statement of intent.
Our publication serves as a platform for voices that resonate with our mission, voices that are unafraid to challenge, redefine, and empower.
The Power of Reclamation
Cultural Renaissance Through Language
Reclaiming derogatory terms is more than a linguistic exercise; it's a cultural renaissance.
It’s about rewriting narratives, transforming negative connotations into symbols of strength and resilience. This practice has historical roots and current relevance, as evidenced by various movements across time that have successfully transformed derogatory language into emblems of pride.
The Feminist Movement and Linguistic Empowerment
The feminist movement has been at the forefront of this battle, turning words intended to belittle women into badges of honor. See You Next Tuesday aligns itself with this movement, seeing in its name not a term of shame, but one of power and identity.
Through our content, we aim to contribute to this cultural conversation, embodying the spirit of reclamation and empowerment through thought-provoking discourse.
See You Next Tuesday is more than just our brand; it's a statement, a challenge, and a movement. By embracing and redefining this phrase, we are not just altering the narrative around a single word but are partaking in a larger cultural shift towards empowerment and liberation through language. We invite our community to join us in this journey, to explore the power of words and the impact they can have on our society and ourselves.