In the Land of Invented Languages
by Arika Okrent
Here is the captivating story of humankind’s enduring quest to build a better
language-and overcome the curse of Babel. Just about everyone has heard of
Esperanto, which was nothing less than one man’s attempt to bring about world
peace by means of linguistic solidarity. And every Star Trek fan knows about
Klingon. But few people have heard of Babm, Blissymbolics, Loglan (not to be
confused with Lojban), and the nearly nine hundred other invented languages
that represent the hard work, high hopes, and full-blown delusions of so many
misguided souls over the centuries. With intelligence and humor, Arika Okrent
has written a truly original and enlightening book for all word freaks, grammar
geeks, and plain old language lovers.
language-and overcome the curse of Babel. Just about everyone has heard of
Esperanto, which was nothing less than one man’s attempt to bring about world
peace by means of linguistic solidarity. And every Star Trek fan knows about
Klingon. But few people have heard of Babm, Blissymbolics, Loglan (not to be
confused with Lojban), and the nearly nine hundred other invented languages
that represent the hard work, high hopes, and full-blown delusions of so many
misguided souls over the centuries. With intelligence and humor, Arika Okrent
has written a truly original and enlightening book for all word freaks, grammar
geeks, and plain old language lovers.