There is definitely a certain imprecision with words as a
form of communication. We say one thing but unfortunately the other person that we say
those words to are able to take what meaning they want from those words. In a sense,
such examples as the one you have given above show that words are neutral: it is our
perception of them that gives them their meaning.
Note how
with this example, when Ethan says to Mattie, "It's natural enough you should be leaving
us," Ethan is actually saying this out of jealousy at, as he assumes, Mattie's imminent
marriage and his losing her. However, note how Mattie interprets this phrase. Shortly
after hearing it, she responds with:
"You mean that Zeena--ain't suited with me any
more?" she faltered.
In
addition, she begins to suspect that his utterance indicates that Ethan wants her to go
too, when, obviously the complete opposite is true. Thus this example shows the
imprecise nature of communication and how what we say can be interpreted in many
ways.
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