Unlocking the Secrets of English: Smithsonian Associate Anne Curzan Reveals How Language Evolves

Unlocking the Secrets of English: Smithsonian Associate Anne Curzan Reveals How Language Evolves

The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series

Welcome to this special edition of The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series. I'm Paul Vogelzang, and today, we're diving into the fascinating evolution of the English language with none other than Smithsonian Associate Anne Curzan, a distinguished historian of the English language, linguist,at the University of Michigan, and host herself of the NPR Michigan Public Radio Program, ‘That’s What They Say.’

In a world where the rules of grammar and language are often debated and dissected, Anne Curzan stands out as a voice of reason and enlightenment. Her latest masterpiece, "Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words," challenges us to rethink what we know about English, pushing the boundaries between traditional grammar and the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of language.  Anne Curzan will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up and the title of her presentation is Language Peeves: Inner Grammandos vs. Inner Wordies.  Check out our show notes today for more information about Anne Curzan’s upcoming Smithsonian Associates presentation, but we have Anne today and let’s take a listen to a brief reading by Anne Curzan from her new book, "Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words,"

That of course is our guest today, Dr. Anne Curzan reading from her new book,  "Says Who? A Kinder, Funner Usage Guide for Everyone Who Cares About Words," We’ll be talking to Anne in just a moment, and throughout our conversation, we'll explore the balance between preserving the rich history of language and embracing its inevitable evolution. Today Anne Curzn will share her insights on the primary drivers of language change, whether it be societal shifts or the impact of digital communication. We'll delve into the heart of the debate over grammatical 'rules', the singular 'they', and how these discussions reflect broader societal changes.

For our listeners, especially those over 60, Anne Curzan offers practical advice on both remaining relevant in today’s multi generational world and in navigating these linguistic shifts, ensuring that language remains a tool for connection, not division among us all. And for a glimpse into the future, Anne will share her predictions and hopes for the evolution of the English language in the coming decade.

So, whether you're a self-proclaimed 'grammando', a word enthusiast, or simply curious about the words we use and why we use them, this episode promises to enlighten, entertain, and inspire. Let's embark on this linguistic journey together, right here on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series.

My thanks to Smithsonian Associate Dr. Anne Curzan, a distinguished historian of the English language, linguist,at the University of Michigan, and host herself of the NPR Michigan Public Radio Program, ‘That’s What They Say.’ Dr. Anne Curzan will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, and the title of her presentation is Language Peeves: Inner Grammandos vs. Inner Wordies, so please check out our show notes today for more details. My thanks to the Smithsonian team for all they do to support the show.  My thanks to you, our wonderful audience here on radio and podcast.  My thanks to Executive Producer, Sam Heninger.  Please be well, be safe, and Let’s Talk About Better™.  The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast.  Thanks, everybody and we’ll see you next week.  For more information about Smithsonian Associates, please click here:  https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/tickets/language-peeves