* New Terminology.
After some unusual statements by various people I suggest the introduction of a new term 'A Mel' or in full 'A Mel Gibson'. This term should be used in reference to any statement that stops a person in their tracks because of its bizarre nature. The term 'A Mel' is so called after Mel Gibson's recent comment that the 'Jews are responsible for all wars' (see below).
For example the statement from a friend that they have been abducted by aliens and taken on board a flying saucer would in Europe (but not in America where it is a commonplace) be a 'Mel'.
Recent 'Mels' in the news are :
. Mr Ahmadinejad's (President of Iran) described the Holocaust as a myth used to justify the existence of Israel and oppression of the Palestinians.
. A Mr Willows, a Conservative councillor, allegedly described all homosexuals as paedophiles and was ordered to pay £250 costs .
I have designated three types of mels :
1) a 'Bad Mel' which receives general opprobrium e.g. Mr Ahmadinejad's comment.
2) a 'Mad Mel' which is plainly crazy e.g. The comment of Mr Willows.
3) a 'Sad Mel' which is plainly a delusion e.g. A friend believing they have been kidnapped by aliens.
In addition we can add a monetary value to the 'Mel' e.g. Mr Willows comment which would be a '£250 mad mel'.
Mel Gibson's comment would be a 'bad mad mel'.
Mr Ahmadinejad's comment would be a 'bad sad mel'.
I intend to collect mels and will be highlighting them in this blog.