The English language is rather like a monster accordion, stretchable at the whim of the editor, compressible ad lib.

The English language is rather like a monster accordion, stretchable at the whim of the editor, compressible ad lib.

Language is a process of free creation; its laws and principles are fixed, but the manner in which the principles read more

Language is a process of free creation; its laws and principles are fixed, but the manner in which the principles of generation are used is free and infinitely varied. Even the interpretation and use of words involves a process of free creation.

Language is the blood of the soul into which thoughts run and out of which they grow.

Language is the blood of the soul into which thoughts run and out of which they grow.

I speak two languages, Body and English.

I speak two languages, Body and English.

All language reflects the prejudices of the society in which it evolved.

All language reflects the prejudices of the society in which it evolved.

Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own.

Those who know nothing of foreign languages know nothing of their own.

And who in time knows whither we may vent the treasure of our tongue, to what strange shores this gain read more

And who in time knows whither we may vent the treasure of our tongue, to what strange shores this gain of our best glories shall be sent, 't unknowing Nations with our stores? What worlds in the yet unformed Occident may come refined with the accents that are ours?

You taught me language, and my profit on't
Is, I know how to curse. The red plague rid you
read more

You taught me language, and my profit on't
Is, I know how to curse. The red plague rid you
For learning me your language!

The finest language is mostly made up of simple unimposing words.

The finest language is mostly made up of simple unimposing words.