When I was in Syria a few years ago we would have to talk in elaborate metaphors when discussing anything political (especially if it was in a negative tone). I

When I was in Syria a few years ago we would have to talk in elaborate metaphors when discussing anything political (especially if it was in a negative tone). I suspect other HNers who have lived in closed states understand all too well how pervasive secret languages are in certain environments. Surpsingly enough, ive noticed myself begining to rehash certain behaviours when talking to people in America or Europe because of an innate sense that the conversation is not private anything I say could be misconstrued under the appropriate conditions. Its a real shame too because these environments which force us to calculate what we say often stifle innovation and creativity to the detriment of society.