"One aspect of this that escapes anyone who relies only on the English translation is the fact that De Falco uses the lei (the polite form of “you” and the associated verb forms) throughout the whole conversation. The direct imperatives (Vada a bordo! “Go on board!”) acquire an enhanced sense of authority by being expressed with lei. De Falco is not losing it; he’s remaining correct and military in his manner. At the same time, he frequently addresses Schettino as Schettino, without any title. This is again proper military usage from a superior to a subordinate."
— Language Log ยป Language and emotion on the Costa Concordia
