In an interview with Dr. Mara Sukholutskaya regarding the current state of grammar and the importance of literal meaning, the following was established:
According to Dr. Sukholutskaya, there is no trend resulting in the lessoning of literal meaning. Certain forms of writing require the reader to read into things figuratively or interpret, but that doesn't mean that literal meaning has fallen into any sort of disfavor. Also, it is a natural part of language for certain words to take on new meanings. Like the American-English use of the word "gay," with which an entirely new meaning has surfaced, and it was certainly not the core literal meaning. Similarly, the Russian word "goluboy," meaning light-blue, has taken on the same connotations. However, for these such words with multiple and changing meanings, there are many more with a strict always-literal meaning.
Regarding Grammar, Dr. Sukholutskaya is outspoken and finds grammar to be very important. She has noticed a decline in the importance of grammar, both by students and by teachers. She has also noticed a general shift into laxation. Students no longer wear respectful clothing, and their use of language and respect for language mirror such.
Dr. Sukholutskaya gave a very effective example in pointing out how you never see someone in a tuxedo or evening gown using improper grammar. This statement, in conjunction with the image of the average college student today, seems to express Dr. Sukholutskaya's opinion on the current state of grammar in academia.
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2 comments:
Huh, I've never really thought about it that way. I was convinced that literal meaning has fallen into disfavor, but maybe I was wrong. Now I think it is just another sign of our langauge evolving and not deteriorating. The Dr. has a fresh point of view. I like that.
:p Yeah, she does. It was pretty fun talking with her. I came out of it wanting to wear more dressy clothes, I know that for sure.
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