The Decay of the English Language free essay sample

A look into the problem of over-used metaphors and James Joyces solution to the problem. This essay explores the problem of dying metaphors and the solution, which is to create new and fresh ones. Orwell and Joyce are used as examples. The author includes many quotes from both writers works. As painters put their trust in the canvass and brush, so writers must put their trust in their medium, language, to convey their message. Most of us take language for granted. Every day, in every situation, we encounter language. Yet often we use our language extremely carelessly. This inadvertent use of language is not only evident in spoken communication, but, perhaps more injuriously, in written transmission as well. Twentieth Century writers have become more antagonistic toward their artistic medium, and with good reason. The language that they have loved and used their entire lives is metamorphosing into something unfamiliar and unfriendly. We will write a custom essay sample on The Decay of the English Language or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Writers like James Joyce uses this degradation of language to their advantage, writing in such a unique style with words unfamiliar to the average reader, thus compelling the reader to take a look at his or her own use or misuse of the same language. Other writers, such as Orwell, are disgusted with the way language has been butchered. He draws attention to the meaninglessness of language in the Twentieth Century. Orwell also attaches political ramifications to the misuse of the English language.