Manfred Papst on the Subtle Art of Double Negatives

In a column for NZZ am Sonntag, Manfred Papst explores the rhetorical figure of litotes—double negation used for understatement or emphasis. He notes that while mathematics treats double negatives as positives, language is more nuanced. Saying one is "not unhappy" with a decision implies mere tolerance, not happiness. Calling someone "not untalented" carries a condescending tone, suggesting limitations. However, describing a mountain tour as "not without danger" adds a warning nuance absent from a simple "dangerous." Papst cites Swiss German examples like "Niemer seit mer nie nüt!" and English rock lyrics—Pink Floyd's "We don't need no education" and the Rolling Stones' "I can't get no satisfaction"—as instances where double negatives reinforce meaning. He explains that litotes derives from Greek for simplicity and restraint, ironically describing a roundabout figure of speech. The column is part of a regular series titled "Zugabe" (Encore).