General If You Don't Like The Responses...

[Nicolette]

It would be great if we could have both.

I would think that being blunt does not have to mean being impolite however that comes down to the interpretation of the recipient - if you receive a response which is clear, unambiguous and sets out an opinion, thought or suggestion you are not yet ready to digest, there is always a good chance it will be deemed as harsh. Harsh is not always impolite and I think distinguishing that is imperative.