Gripping hand

In the science fiction novels The Mote in God's Eye and The Gripping Hand by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle , thegripping hand is literally the strongest of the three asymmetrical arms of the aliens called " Moties ". Some species of Motie have twoweaker arms with better fine control on one side, and a single much stronger arm on the other side.

Figuratively, it was typically used when presenting a third choice or fact after two others, usually after the second had beenpresented with the phrase "on the other hand...". Thus, a discussion of choices could follow the typical English pattern of saying "We could do this, but on the other hand we coulddo that," followed by what would in conventional English be a nonsequitur , "but on the gripping hand, there's another alternative." In keeping with the idea that this represents thestrongest arm, the last fact is often one that is most unpleasant or difficult to deal with, in some way, although sometimes itis merely a third alternative.

Some of the more devoted fans of Niven and Pournelle will sometimes slip into this metaphor in regular speech, often resulting in some confusion from the listener. The abbreviation OTGH, modeled onOTOH, is also used in some SF discussion groups.

External links

• Jargon File entry