LL-L "Language varieties" 2003.12.07 (02) [E]

[Lowlands-L]

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L O W L A N D S - L * 07.DEC.2003 (02) * ISSN 189-5582 * LCSN 96-4226
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A=Afrikaans Ap=Appalachian B=Brabantish D=Dutch E=English F=Frisian
L=Limburgish LS=Lowlands Saxon (Low German) N=Northumbrian
S=Scots Sh=Shetlandic V=(West)Flemish Z=Zeelandic (Zeêuws)
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From: Antero Helasvuo <antero.helasvuo at welho.com>
Subject: LL-L "Language varieties" 2003.12.03 (07) [E]

Lowlands-L wrote:

>Personally, I believe that *all* languages *are* ultimately related to each
>other, namely that human language began very early, before exodus from
>Mother Africa.
>
>I say, "Back to the Lowlands!"

I agree, Ron, but let me just add provocatively: There are no languages,
only millions of ways of saying the same things. And the more basic
those things get the more their verbal symbols resemble each other all
over the world. "Ma ma ma, pa pa pa, nam nam nam..." Differentiation is
partly due to evolutionary adaptation to different environments. Our
voice boxes are capable of producing an infinite variety of sounds, some
of which for example are easier to hear in a mountainous area while some
others better serve the needs of those living in the rain forests. Why
do rural folks everywhere sound the same twisting and wringing and
drawling in their speech, using all kinds of broad and complicated
diphtongs, while urban people spit out their speech quick and sharp?
Compare the "plat" varieties of Lowlands parlance.

--
Antero Helasvuo
Luutnantinpolku 9 C 20
00410 HELSINKI
FINLAND

TEL (fax on demand) +358 9 5872345
antero.helasvuo at welho.com

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