Just a random thought in my mind: Why does language exist? And do we really need all those words?
Language is a phenomenon in itself. It is a means of communication, and yet, it can be so much more. It can carry hopes and dreams, friendship, hatred, pride and anger. However, the question still is: Do we need all our words for that?
Look at the animals. They can communicate without words, and when you have a close look at a mother and her child (apes, wolves, you name it), you know that they can convey their love, friendship, anger and pride too. So, what is it that sets us humans aside, that makes us need words?
Our lives have got more and more complicated. If we only needed to worry about hunting and gathering food and protection from weather and wild animals back in the Stone Age, nowadays, we have to worry about what to wear, how we look, our work, our hobbies, our neighbours, our financial situation, our holidays, ... The list goes on and on. As our lives and our needs have got more complicated, so did our language. Every year, many new words are entered into dictionaries. They describe gadgets and situations that weren't there a year ago. Other words lose their original meaning and take on a new one. Language evolves, just as the human race does.
The answer is: We need our words because we ourselves made our lives so complicated that a simple language like the ones of animals isn't enough. We have so many things to talk about that it wouldn't be possible otherwise. Language is an invention of mankind because mankind made language necessary.
Just some thoughts on a Monday...what's your opinion?
Language ... the bridge of communication, the magic creator of worlds, the brush and paint of authors. Language is magic. It gives us power. It is something you just have to love.
I agree that "language is an invention of mankind because mankind made language necessary."
ReplyDeleteI also believe that as humans and because of our propensity to use words, we've lost touch with the most obvious- body language! Our bodies and our mannerisms convey a lot more than we are aware of, because we no longer feel that's the number one way to communicate. Although, when you are like me and pick up body mannerisms that aren't meshing with the words coming out of someone's mouth, you get confused and lost!
Language itself is so complicated. For example, translating many languages, the subtle meanings of words that are apparent to that culture are lost in other languages. It's unfortunate, but I think we are lucky to be able to know about other languages. It helps to learn the people and culture that isn't ours.
I find language fascinating and have really enjoyed your blog posts! I know I don't comment often (if at all!), but I'm reading. :)
Melissa, you're definitely right about body language. Thanks so much for your opinion! I'm glad you're enjoying my blog, and I appreciate your comments, no matter how rare they are ;)
ReplyDeleteLove,
Saoirse