Wanted: Wordstardom
July 26th, 2006 Molly - Central
Some people subscribe to “word-a-day” emails and have daily calendars that accomplish this task, too. Some people read grammar books for fun. When The Elements of Style came out last year with new illustrations by Maira Kalman, some people were thrilled. And some people were not just me. Lots of people read Eats, Shoots, and Leaves by Lynne Truss. It was on the bestseller list for weeks.
If you like word books and aren’t embarrassed to admit it, you may already know about Word Fugitives: In Pursuit of Wanted Words. It is a new little book based on a column in The Atlantic Monthly by Barbara Wallraff. Ms. Wallraff chases down the funny things that happen in life for which no designated word or phrase exists. And she has lots of help. People all over the world have words to offer and more happenings that still need words.
NPR’s All Things Considered hosted a contest in March to find a word that describes the phenomena of almost sneezing. Over 2700 people submitted words. Sniff-hanger was the winner. I am looking for a word that describes the celebrity status of language. I am not sure the sniglet in the title is worthy.
Entry Filed under: Nonfiction
1 Comment Add your own
1. Heidi O | August 2nd, 2006 at 12:03 pm
I’m a word freak, I admit it. I’ve read dictionarys and , when I’m in the mood, often search for books of this very type. The construction and ongoing evolution of the English language is confusing and fascinating. Study of the English language should be a required course in all levels of american education. Oh, wait a minute, it is.
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