On the (de?)Evolution of Language

…or simply, “THIS”

Yesterday I waded through this dense article on Internet Linguistics (which, for the record, has a terrific title), and I’m glad I did. It was really interesting to this English nerd. On one hand I love language evolution because I’m fascinated by the creativity, not just of internet language but of language in general. Latin is a beautiful language, but it is “dead,” after all. The only way for a language to continue being used is to evolve with its speakers.

But on the other hand I hate it because I believe good, clear, intelligent language is beautiful, artful, moving, and can express every emotion if only we take the time to put good words together.

But then on the other hand (yes, I just sprouted a 3rd arm…I’m sure it’ll come in handy one day) this new internet language is a new way to express emotion and tone, which is — admittedly — often more immediate, concise and honest than standard language. I mean, who hasn’t gone through the “Wait! That’s not what I meant! ☺☺☺ See? Smileys!” fiasco, or realized there were no words for that Facebook video that really-actually-for realz made you laugh out loud and not just lol, or wished there was a sarcasm font? When I started seeing people on Facebook posting “THIS” or “This just happened” or “Just…wow…” as the sole explanation for sharing something, I didn’t question the usage at all. I totally got it.

So now I’m stuck with this third limb waving about and a split mind on whether language evolution — especially internet lingo — is good or bad. Honestly, though, I’m leaning toward good (**when used responsibly**), but the literary part of me will always be horrified by memes that misuse your/you’re and by the idea of teaching texting in the classroom.

omg i can’t even

So what do you think? Does today’s internet lingo horrify or liberate you? Is this something we language geeks should embrace or disavow (or reluctantly accept while retreating to a corner to shed bitter tears)