You Are What You Speak

by Robert Lane Greene
You Are What You Speak cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Language and Linguistics
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  • ID: 7082
  • Added: 2025-12-10
  • Updated: 2025-12-10
  • ISBN: 9781863955416
  • Publisher: Black Inc.
  • Published: 2011-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

In 'You Are What You Speak,' Robert Lane Greene defends the diversity of language against the rigid rules imposed by self-proclaimed experts. He debunks popular myths and challenges bestselling authors, arguing that language is more akin to jazz than a set of strict regulations. Greene's world tour of language beliefs reveals how these beliefs shape our identities and communities, from ancient myths to modern nation-building. This engaging book encourages flexibility in language use and offers a fresh perspective on the role of language in our lives. Greene's insights are supported by historical examples and contemporary observations, making the book both informative and entertaining. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural and personal significance of language.

Reviews
Superlinguo · 2012-01-09
thought-provoking 4.00

The book explores the deep connection between language and political power, particularly nationalism. It's an engaging read that challenges common perceptions about language.

This book dives into how language shapes and is shaped by political power, with a special focus on nationalism. It's not just an academic treatise but a compelling read that makes you question what you think you know about language. The author does a great job of making complex ideas accessible and interesting, even for those who aren't linguistic experts. However, some might find the political aspects a bit heavy-handed at times, but overall, it's a thought-provoking exploration of the ties between language and identity.

Quick quotes

    The overarching focus of the book is the relationship between language and political power, especially nationalism.

    It's a compelling read that makes you question what you think you know about language.

    The author does a great job of making complex ideas accessible and interesting.

Reddit - Linguistics · 2012-01-09
enjoyable 3.50

It's a fun and enjoyable piece of pop linguistics that's worth having on your shelf. It's not groundbreaking, but it's a good read for those fascinated by language.

This book is a great addition to the pop linguistics genre. It's not going to revolutionize your understanding of language, but it's a fun and engaging read that's perfect for those who enjoy thinking about linguistics in their spare time. The author's approachable style makes it easy to get through, and it's a book you'll likely find yourself picking up again and again. However, if you're looking for something more academic or in-depth, you might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it's a solid choice for casual readers interested in language.

Quick quotes

    It's pop linguistics, but enjoyable and pretty good.

    The author's approachable style makes it easy to get through.

    It's a book you'll likely find yourself picking up again and again.

The New York Times · 2011-04-01
insightful 4.50

Greene's book is a highly readable survey of how our preconceived notions about language can mislead us. It's an insightful look into the complexities of language and its societal implications.

Robert Lane Greene's book is a fantastic exploration of how our deeply held beliefs about language often lead us astray. It's not just a dry academic text but a highly readable and engaging survey that makes you think about language in new ways. The author's approach is both informative and entertaining, making it a great read for anyone interested in linguistics or sociology. The book does a terrific job of breaking down complex ideas into digestible bits, but some readers might wish for more depth in certain areas.

Quick quotes

    Greene's 'You Are What You Speak' is a very readable survey of all the ways our received ideas about language can lead us astray.

    It's an insightful look into the complexities of language and its societal implications.

    The author's approach is both informative and entertaining.

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