Search Results: Returned 2 Results, Displaying Titles 1 - 2
-
-
c2008., Gotham Books Call No: 420.9 M177o Availability:1 of 1 At Your LibraryClick here to watch Click here to view Summary Note: Why do we say "I am reading a catalog" instead of "I read a catalog"? Why do we say "do" at all? Is the way we speak a reflection of our cultural values? Delving into these provocative topics and more, author McWhorter distills hundreds of years of lore into one lively history. Covering the little-known Celtic and Welsh influences on English, the impact of the Viking raids and the Norman Conquest, and the Germanic invasions that started it all during the fifth century AD, and drawing on genetic and linguistic research as well as a cache of trivia about the origins of English words and syntax patterns, McWhorter ultimately demonstrates the arbitrary, maddening nature of English--and its ironic simplicity, due to its role as a streamlined lingua franca during the early formation of Britain. This is the book that language aficionados have been waiting for.--From publisher description.
-
-
2017., Bellevue Literary Press Call No: BLK 427.97 M479t Edition: First edition. Availability:1 of 1 At Your Library Summary Note: "In his first book devoted solely to the form, structure, and development of Black English, John McWhorter clearly explains its fundamentals and rich history, while carefully examining the cultural, educational, and political issues that have undermined recognition of this transformative, empowering dialect."--Page [4] of cover.
