Well, it would be of the same number of characters, and a lot less acceptable to analyze. However, even shit has its limits, and should not be used for anything other than that which is at least somewhat close to feces in look, smell, or general desirability. Considering that the piece of shit is a dirty car that barely runs, the usage is correct. It is incorrect, though, to use the word for unspecific items. It goes without saying that our word was not being used literally here.
Stuff is a word of long usage for nonspecific collectives and works best here.
I will stop at the noun uses of shit but suffice to say that its misuse might steal it from its colorful potency as a disdainful noun, rendering it as strong a discompliment as stuff. Michael R. Allen is editor and publisher of Spintech and editor of The Implosion . His column appears monthly. Copyright 2000 Michael R. Allen.