Book Review: “How English Became English” by Simon Horobin

April Book Review: “How English Became English” by Simon Horobin

8/10, would certainly recommend

Simon Horobin’s book on the development of the English language is not only a very easy read (I read this within my train journey from the Netherlands to England), but also a very informative one. A small disclaimer though: this is a very particular area of interest and may be less enjoyable to read if grammar, etymology and culture aren’t your thing.

Covering the origins of the English language, looking at its placement on the Indo-European language tree and exploring its development from Old English (Anglo-Saxon), the book provides a clear timeline of how it has adopted all of the grammar, vocabulary and structure that it now does. Horobin also highlights how English is in not only the standard forms that we’re familiar with. He explores the pidgins, creoles and dialects that make up the modern English language(s), from Tok Pisin to Scots (though recognises the dialect/other language debate) to Singlish to the various styles in Britain and America.

This is not the only aspect that he highlights, however, as he also questions to what extent correct grammar is necessary (a good thing for non-natives to hear, I’m sure). One such example is “less” versus “fewer” where he looks at the etymological origins of the words and why “less” became associated with uncountable nouns and “fewer” with countable ones. The conclusion he makes, which he does so in a very convincing manner, is that many of the rules that now exist are actually artificial and were unfairly enforced (though now, of course, these rules can be seen as correct to the English that has since developed).

Furthermore, he looks into how sociocultural and sociolinguistic elements have influenced the language, such as the perceived superiority of Received Pronunciation. He thus unpacks why, how and when these developments occurred while looking into the fascinating world of regional differences in accent and vocabulary, contrasting them with the superficial standards put in place.

Overall, a brilliant piece of literature with a very conversational tone that keeps the pages turning (and, combining the language and culture, fits perfectly with a beer).