Bad Language

Bad Language
Lars Andersson; Peter Trudgill
Basil Blackwell, 1990

Review:
As much as I think this book treats a very important issue, I can't help but feel that it does so a little trudgingly. I realise that it's written for readers with no linguistic background, but even so, I think the average reader would find the style too belittling. Other than that it's an excellent book; it gives several very good examples of why grammar-nazism is often founded in an irrational fear of change rather than any linguistic motivation, and how it tends to be arbitrary, inconsistent and rooted in snobbery and group membership. For this reason I think it could be a soothing read for those who work themselves up about "incorrect" language use, showing them that this "degeneration" is part of a normal evolutionary process, and that language inevitably sorts itself out.

Rating: Good

The Hobbit

The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien
Illustrations by J.R.R. Tolkien
HarperCollins, 2006

First impression:
As I was expecting something quite intricate language-wise, I was both disappointed and relieved to discover that the tone in this work differs much from its translated counterparts. It may still turn out brilliant but some adjustment is due first.

Review:
I breached the language barrier quite soon and came to appreciate the work even earlier. This is indeed a classic adventure, albeit, I must admit, a bit cheesy at times. As much as I like Tolkien, I am not impressed with his poetic escapades, but I will bear with them for the sake of a story well told. I actually caught myself half way through the book fretting that it would ever have to end. When it came to that, however, a rather drawn-out post-climax section helped, though some emotion undoubtedly was stirred. A quote on the cover calls it a "flawless masterpiece", and I can't fully agree with that, but if anything it is a book fully worthy of your attention and a most excitable read.

Rating: Impressive