Evolution of Language
I have just finished reading Evelina, Or, The History of a Young Lady’s Entrance into the World, by Fanny Burney, originally published in 1778. It is a story told in letters, most of which are from Evelina to her adopted, beloved Father. The language and manner of expression is very different from how we express our feelings now. Here is a sample;
“Almost insensibly have three days glided on since I wrote last, and so serenely, that, but for your absence, I could not have formed a wish.”
For fun and diversion, I offer a few modern interpretations;
- “Hardly noticed three days have gone by since I last emailed it’s been so peaceful here. Other than missing you, I’ve been happy.”
- “What? Three days already? I’ve been so relaxed. Miss you, wish you were here.
- “Chilling here. Sorry for the delay. Miss u.”
- “Hammock emoji, clock emoji, heart emoji”
How much does the intention behind the original communication change in any of the modern interpretations?
Technology evolves and language with it. It’s a ‘chicken or the egg’ question as to which evolves first.
But why, Dear Readers should I have all the fun? Here is another sentence from Evelina; I entreat you to engage and amuse yourselves with your own worthy interpretations of how such emotions would be expressed in these modern times;
“I heard no more: amazed, frightened, and unspeakably shocked, an involuntary exclamation of Gracious Heaven! escaped me, and, more dead than alive, I sunk into Mrs. Mirvan’s arms.”
With breathless anticipation do I await your varied responses.
Stay safe everyone.
How about “I was so gobsmacked I nearly passed out”….?
Awesome! Thank you for joining in.
OMG — what happened?
Good one! Thank you.
WTF
Shut Up
!!!!!
Radical Dude
OMG
These are not anywhere as clean and nice as above – today’s language lacks depth – at least with some methods of communication – but maybe not lost in translation – haha
Great topic and challenge Anne.
Perfect. I’ve been waiting for someone to drop the ‘F’ bomb… Thank you!
This one was sent to me privately by a reader who is either shy, or technically challenged;
“I had the shit scared outta me and I thought ‘Holy Fuck!'”
I reprint with permission.
Here’s another one;
‘Shocked AF! Nearly died!’
I am late in the game and will not come to close to any of these creative responses, but thought I would admit that the F-bomb was the very first thing that came to mind!
Thanks for commenting; the F-bomb has become so common in modern language, I think it has lost its ‘bomb’ status and is the word the majority of us (well, me) would resort to.