Subject
Americanisms Books
Best books
H. L. (Henry Louis) Mencken
The American Language A Preliminary Inquiry into the Development of English in the United States
"The American Language" by H. L. Mencken is a book published in 1919 that examines English as spoken in the United States. Inspired by street argot and Mark Twain, Mencken defended American speech against British critics who dismissed it as a corruption of proper English. He argued that American English was more colorful and creative than its counterpart across the Atlantic. The work explores American variations, names, and slang, challenging prescriptive grammar rules and celebrating how language evolves independently of textbooks.
Brander Matthews
Parts of Speech: Essays on English
"Parts of Speech: Essays on English" by Brander Matthews is a collection of essays focusing on the English language, likely written in the early 20th century. The essays emphasize the idea that the English language belongs to its speakers and explore its development, usage, and the factors influencing it over time. Matthews, a professor at Columbia University, discusses various aspects such as orthography, American versus British English, and the evolution of language through literature and culture. The opening of the text introduces Matthews' perspective on the English language, tracing its historical roots back to the time of King Alfred. He argues that literature is the key to forming a cohesive identity among its speakers, serving as a means to express ideals and preserve cultural heritage. The essays outline significant influences on the language, including the blending of various cultural elements and dialects from the Teutonic, Celtic, and Norman peoples. Matthews asserts that while the English language has evolved, retaining poetic qualities and individualistic characteristics, it continues to reflect the identity and creativity of those who speak it.
Brander Matthews
Americanisms and Briticisms; with other essays on other isms
"Americanisms and Briticisms; with other essays on other isms" by Brander Matthews is a collection of essays written in the late 19th century. The book explores the distinctions and peculiarities of American English compared to British English, while reflecting on the evolution of language in response to cultural changes across different regions, including Australia and Canada. Matthews discusses the ongoing linguistic debates sparked by regional expressions, spelling variations, and the broader cultural implications of these differences. The beginning of the text introduces the topic of how various English-speaking regions have developed their unique vocabulary and phrases, often as a result of new socio-cultural experiences that necessitate fresh linguistic expressions. Matthews references contemporary literature, specifically a novel featuring Australian characters, to illustrate the confusion that can arise from unfamiliar terms. He also considers how historical grievances and literary criticism have shaped attitudes towards American English, highlighting a sense of pride in American linguistic identity while critiquing British perspectives. The opening thus sets the stage for a thoughtful exploration of language as a living entity that is shaped by its speakers’ experiences and societal contexts.
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