On "romance languages," "litmus tests" and other matters of grave import

Hi Guys -- This is Amy's dad, trying to get into the 21 st century by posting my first blog comment ever. Some random thoughts:

1) Amy's comment to Kim about the stereotype of Spanish as a "passionate" language got me thinking about similar biases and misconceptions regarding other languages. The question is, are these stereotypes ever based on real characteristics of a given language, or do they simply reflect cultural biases? To wit: Is French really the most "beautiful" or the most "musical" language? Anyone have any other examples?

2) In response to Kim's call to compile a list of superlatives, I have a nomination for the most unnnecessary word: "litmus." Why is it that no one puts anything simply to the test anymore? Nowadays, one must apply a "litmus test." It brings me back painfully to my high school Chem Lab days (which resulted in a C grade), and which I would rather repress. Please: Let's bring back plain old tests.

3) Vocabulary Word of the Day: aphasia It's a goody, describing a rare and weird condition in which one loses the power to use language. Look it up if you don't believe me. Duh-h-h-h-....

4) Recommended reading: Virginia Heffernan's column in the NY Times Magazine yesterday. She wrestles with the problem of how to transcribe and report online language faithfully. It's amusing.

Waxing aphasic daily,

-Richrod