Truth and Linguistics

[kerravonsen]

Interesting quote from the book I'm currently reading(*):
Their [human] language is equally confusing. Who can believe what they say if every word has several meanings?

Which makes one wonder... for of course, in human languages, one can lie while telling the truth. Yet what a poor language it would be if words had only one meaning.

Does poetry lie in ambiguity? Or does poetry lie in ambiguity?

(*) "City of Pearl" by Karen Traviss

Comments

[lizamanynames.livejournal.com]

Does poetry lie in ambiguity? Or does poetry lie in ambiguity?

*grins* Yes.

[vilakins.livejournal.com]

City of Pearl? Is this a sequel to the wonderful City of Diamond by Jane Emerson, who I know has been ill? Avon, Vila, and Soolin avatars!

And speaking of avatars, yes, Duv Galeni is Avonic in Brothers in Arms but I've just found a blonde Servalan in The Vor Game: Livia Niu (wonderful name) AKA Cavilo. :-)

[mistraltoes.livejournal.com]

One of the reasons French is often used for legal documents is because it is so precise. But English is rich in texture and metaphor because of the multiple meanings and sources, which makes it a wonderful artistic medium.

[reveilles.livejournal.com]

oooohhh... ::bows deeply:: very clever. Topical AND profound...

Btw, I've enjoyed your thank-you lists!