It has been over 50 years since Mario Puzo wrote “The Godfather.” This year is the 50th anniversary of the film adaptation, starring Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone, and directed by Francis Ford Coppola. The fictional character Vito Corleone is an interesting individual and could be described as affably evil. He is polite but still wants to control everything. Some of his famous lines from the movie are: “I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them,” “A man who doesn’t spend time with his family can never be a real man,” and “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.” Vito would probably have enjoyed Family Day (coming soon to Saskatchewan) but also prepared to kill those who get in his way. He is affably evil.
An affably evil character is polite but nevertheless craves to take over the world. They may pet puppies but won’t hesitate to kick them if it helps accomplish their evil plans. They may well try to convince the hero to go along with them while reminding the hero that they are a villain and there is a good chance that torture, and maybe even death, may be involved. Seems to me that many of the Bond baddies are affably evil.
The word affable means, being pleasant and at ease talking to others in a friendly manner. Affable people are gracious, courteous, and communicate kind consideration. They are cordial and sociable. Someone who is affable radiates warmth and has a genuine liking for others. It was first used in the 15th century. The word derives from the Latin “affari” meaning to speak to, which comes from “fari” to speak. Affable people are easy-going and use low-pressure tactics.
It would be nice to observe protestors who are affable people. Some who engage in demonstrations may well be affable individuals, but many seem to exude blustery speech and have a tearing-down attitude. It seems that elements within the protesting groups that are currently involved in COVID19 might consider affable personalities as door mats to be taken advantage of rather than leaders who will get results. But most psychologists indicate that an affable person makes the best kind of leader. Affable citizens are secure enough with themselves to focus on others and make a significant difference.
St. Paul wrote to his young friend Timothy, “Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness.” The word translated as “kind to everyone” is epios, which means affable. In the ancient Greek world epios was used to describe the positive attitude of a nurse towards trying patients, a teacher with refractory students, and parents speaking and acting kindly towards their children. Paul said to the Thessalonian congregation, “We were epios among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children.” (1 Thessalonians 2:7) How nice it would be if we could all become a little more affable, actively dealing with others with equity and justice.
With Family Day approaching, it would be beneficial if everyone in families could work on being affable individuals. It would go a long way to create family unity and helpfulness if we could develop and promote an affable manner. Affable implies easy approachability and a readiness to respond pleasantly. A truly affable person is not a push over nor a people pleaser. An affable person is allo-centric, centred on others rather than their own rights. To the Corinthian people, Paul used Jesus as an example, when he wrote to encourage positive relationships, “by the meekness and affability of Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:1)
Perhaps on February 21st, Family Day in Saskatchewan, we can lead our country in an encouragement to develop affable personalities. This would be of benefit for our families, our communities, our country, and our protests.
Columnist John Kreutzwieser loves to research words and writes this weekly Word Wisdom column for Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com. He has an interest in the usage, origin, and relevance of words for society today. Greek and Latin form the basis of many words, with ancient Hebrew shedding light on word usage.
John would like to know if anyone has a sincere interest in a relevant word that he could possibly research for an upcoming column. If so, please send your requests to [email protected] . Words will be selected according to relevance and research criteria. We cannot confirm that all words will be used.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
