"I find it difficult to believe that words have no meaning in themselves, hard as I try. Habits of a lifetime are not lightly thrown aside"

Stuart Chase's reflection on the intrinsic meaning of words discuss a fundamental dispute within linguistics and viewpoint: whether words possess inherent meaning or if their significances are completely stemmed from social conventions and context. In this quote, Chase expresses an individual struggle with accepting the theory that words are merely arbitrary symbols without intrinsic significance, a perspective lined up with linguistic theories such as those proposed by Ferdinand de Saussure and later on established in structuralism and post-structuralism.

Chase confesses to the obstacle of conquering a deeply ingrained belief-- a "routine of a life time"-- that words naturally bring significance. This suggests a natural human tendency to see language as a direct representation of reality. From childhood, we are taught to associate specific words with things, concepts, and feelings, producing a sense that language is naturally significant. This belief is reinforced continuously through interaction and cultural interaction, making it deeply ingrained in our understanding of the world.

Chase's admission of difficulty in altering this perception highlights the stress in between instinctive beliefs and theoretical understanding. The notion that words do not possess inherent meaning challenges the core of how we view language functioning. It firmly insists that meaning is not repaired but fluid, based on usage, context, and shared understanding within a language neighborhood.

In addition, this quote sheds light on the more comprehensive obstacles intrinsic in altering enduring beliefs. It talks to the human experience of grappling with new ideas that conflict with recognized psychological frameworks. Chase's struggle highlights the strength of cognitive and cultural conditioning in shaping our understandings and beliefs, revealing the complex interaction between individual cognition, social norms, and linguistic constructs.

In summary, Chase's reflection welcomes us to think about the consistent and typically subconscious influence of lifelong habits on our understanding of language, even as we face and question traditional ideas in pursuit of much deeper insights.