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The Express Gazette
Thursday, October 1, 2026

Author Laments Decline in Punctuality, Calls It a 'Theft of Time'

Jonathan Brocklebank reflects on a perceived societal shift away from valuing promptness.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Author Laments Decline in Punctuality, Calls It a 'Theft of Time'

In a commentary, author Jonathan Brocklebank has expressed a sense of disconnect with modern societal norms regarding punctuality, likening lateness to a form of time theft. He questions when the casual disregard for others' schedules became acceptable.

Brocklebank uses a personal anecdote about hearing his mother's footsteps in the hall, noting how their pace quickened over time. This recollection serves as a contrast to his current perception of a growing demographic that is indifferent to the virtues of punctuality.

He frames the issue as a fundamental breach of respect, suggesting that each minute a person is late represents a minute stolen from the other's life, time that could have been used for other activities. The commentary implies a broader societal trend where promptness is no longer a universally held value.


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