Which Countries have free speech?

[IanPotter]

When I was at uni there was a guy I knew from Iraq. He'd laugh and joke (and drink and smoke) - but the second anyone asked him about anything related to his homeland he'd instantly stare down at his feet until you stopped, even if that meant sitting there all night. I never could tell if he was happy. He simply couldn't say.

Most just thought it weird behaviour, but to me it was a signal that freedom of speech was something I should value and be prepared to defend.

Today however, I'm am much less sure about the confidence instilled by the hubris of youth. All too often free speech is used as a cover for lies or as a vehicle for self-indulgence, while at other times it springs forth from within a trapped paradigm and only serves to infect the air with viral dogma.

Besides, what use is free speech in a world where no-one listens anyway?

And then there are the words themselves. What do they mean? Should I buy a dictionary to make myself clear? Should I buy you one too?

For a time I thought I'd found relief in freedom of thought; but I realized I was thinking in English and in a dialect few would care to comprehend.

Does anyone understand? Would it help if I spelled it out? How about if I wave my arms around to emphasize the points I fail to make?

Why don't you just stare into my eyes and I'll return the favour. The truth must be in there somewhere.

Today I only know one thing. It's easier that way. It came to me in a dream. No words, just pictures; and screams directing me to that moment when the voices are silenced and we look on, open mouthed and for the first time in our lives, lost for words.

Fuck you and fuck me. Them dogs have it easy...