Finally, some language to cheer about

Quotable text: "...and by threatening to revoke the licenses of repeat polluters, the Senate seeks to return to the public square the gentler tenor of yesteryear, when seldom were heard any scurrilous words, and famous guys were not foul mouthed all day." [color font mine]
Citation: "Almost Before We Spoke, We Swore" by Natalie Angier, The New York Times, Science, Tuesday, September 20, 2005.
Usage: Second paragraph, describing potential new federal legislation to increase penalties for uttering obscenities on the air.
Recommendation: Leave as is. I applaud this twist of an old and sometimes overused lyric, "when seldom were heard a discouraging word, and the skies were not cloudy all day."
Rationale: I have highlighted abused or questionable language more recently and I was excited to have something positive to share. The whole article is a joy to read and I highly recommend it.

Also try my blog on cliches at cliche-a-day.blogspot.com.