Books about Deleted from Amazon.com

Have we always "sworn like sailors"? Has creative cursing developed because we can't just slug people when they make us angry? And if such verbal aggression is universal, why is it that some languages (Japanese, for instance) supposedly do not contain any nasty words? Throughout the twentieth century there seems to have been a dramatic escalation in the use and acceptance of offensive language in English, both verbally and in print. Today it seems almost commonplace to hear the "f" word in casual conversation, and even on television. Just how have we become such a bunch of cursers and what does it tell us about our language and ourselves?

In Expletive Deleted, linguist Ruth Wajnryb offers an entertaining yet thoroughly researched, lighthearted look at this development, seeking to reveal the etymologies of various terms and discover how what was once considered unfit-for-company argot has become standard fare. Wajnryb steps outside the confines of English in her search for answers, exploring whether offensive words in English are mirrored in other languages and examining cultural differences in the usage of dirty words. For instance, why is it that in some languages you can get away with intimating that a person and his camel are more than just good friends, while pouring scorn on a mother's morals guarantees you a seat on the next flight out?

An amusing and idiosyncratic look at the power of words to shock, offend, insult, amuse, exaggerate, let off steam, establish relationships, and communicate deep-felt emotions, Expletive Deleted is a must-read for anyone who loves language -- or has ever stubbed a toe..
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When Maya's grandfather comes for a visit, he brings a surprise in a crate--something, he says, to teach her "fun and sharing". Maya hopes it's a horse or a big brother But instead it's Julius, a big, cool pig. Maya's parents see Julius as a slob, but Maya herself sees another Julius altogether. She sees a playmate, a protector, and sharer in all that's magical and wild. Full color..
Price: $29.41 [Notify me when price goes down.]

In this, his 75th year, Tomas Transtromer can be clearly recognised not just as Sweden's most important poet, but as a writer of international stature whose work speaks to us now with undiminished clarity and resonance Long celebrated as a master of the arresting, suggestive image, Transtromer is a poet of the liminal: drawn again and again to thresholds of light and of water, the boundaries between man and nature, wakefulness and dream. A deeply spiritual but secular writer, his scepticism about humanity is continually challenged by the implacable renewing power of the natural world. His poems are epiphanies rooted in experience: spare, luminous meditations that his extraordinary images split open - exposing something sudden, mysterious and unforgettable..
Price: $12.92 [Notify me when price goes down.]

Deleted! features a walk through the world of computer crimes and international intrigue. In Amman, Jordan, a young Arab has broken the code designed to protect movie disks, which would cost the Motion Picture Association of America millions of dollars. The Sloans and their inquisitive seventeen-year-old daughter, Cara, journey through a maze of cyber-investigation to find the thief. Unexpectedly, Sam encounters a lead through the FBI that exposes him, the Sloan family, and his Middle Eastern partner to personal danger. Suddenly, the criminal’s assault careens toward a most unexpected target!

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Price: $1.37 [Notify me when price goes down.]