Summary
"Word by Word: The Secret Life of Dictionaries" by Kory Stamper offers a captivating journey into the world of lexicography, revealing the human element behind the seemingly objective definitions found in dictionaries. Stamper, a lexicographer at Merriam-Webster, dispels common misconceptions about dictionaries and lexicographers, illustrating that these reference works are not handed down from on high but are meticulously crafted by individuals grappling with the ever-evolving nature of language. The book explores the daily life of a lexicographer, detailing the rigorous training, eccentric personalities, and often tedious tasks involved in defining words. It delves into the delicate balance between science and art that lexicography entails, highlighting the importance of 'sprachgefühl'—a feeling for language—and a temperament suited to long hours of solitary concentration.
The narrative weaves through various aspects of lexicography, including grammar, usage, and etymology, demonstrating the complexities and contradictions inherent in the English language. Stamper discusses the challenges of classifying words by their parts of speech, the historical influences shaping English grammar, and the ongoing debate between prescriptivism and descriptivism. She recounts the etymological fallacy, where a word's 'true' meaning is mistakenly believed to reside in its origin, and underscores the importance of recognizing language as a fluid, ever-changing entity influenced by dialects, social classes, and historical events. The book also illuminates the constant tension between recording language as it is used and upholding an idealized standard of 'correctness,' a struggle that lexicographers face daily.
Stamper brings to life the internal debates and quirky office dynamics of Merriam-Webster, revealing the dedication, humor, and occasional frustrations of those who dedicate their careers to words. She discusses the challenges of answering public correspondence, the need for a balanced source list in citation gathering, and the impact of technology on lexicography. Throughout the book, Stamper emphasizes the importance of embracing language in all its messiness and illogicality. She stresses the need for lexicographers to set aside their own linguistic prejudices, to acknowledge the influence of social factors on language, and to recognize that language is a cultural artifact shaped by the collective usage of its speakers.
Ultimately, "Word by Word" is a celebration of the English language, warts and all, and a tribute to the unsung heroes who devote their lives to documenting its ever-changing landscape. Stamper passionately defends the value of descriptive lexicography, arguing that dictionaries should reflect how language is actually used, even if that means including words or usages that some consider 'wrong.' She shows us that lexicography is more than just a job—it's a calling, a labor of love, and a testament to the power of language to shape our world.