Reflections on Language

Product Description

Reflections on Language brings together a collection of seventy-eight articles that examine language from many different perspectives. Its selections focus on language as a social form, demonstrating how it is an indispensable component of the world and how we interpret it. Organized
thematically, the text addresses many topics, including the acquisition of language, the rhetoric of advertising, the language of politics, language between the sexes, and language across cultures. It also discusses areas not covered by similar books, such as the bodily basis of language,
communication across species, and the language of cyberspace.
Ideal for courses in freshman composition, introduction to language, and a variety of writing classes,
Reflections on Language helps students and other readers to become more aware of language and to use it more effectively. The text offers useful aids for writing instruction, including an
opening chapter on writing and revising, a rhetorical table of contents, and a glossary, as well as introductory notes, journal writing prompts, and analytical exercises for each selection.
Reflections on Language also includes an index as well as thirteen advertisements, eighteen cartoons, and
numerous end-of-chapter writing assignments. This unique reader incorporates a substantial number of scholarly articles by language theorists in addition to pieces by popular writers and works of short fiction, poetry, and drama. Lively, informative, and authoritative,
Reflections on Language leads
students and general readers to a deeper understanding of language and its power.

Review

“An excellent and thought-provoking volume which brings a rich variety of classic and modern essays on language. It was a delight to use and I will definitely use it again.”― Aneta Pavlenko, Temple University

“An excellent text; comprehensive in that it represents the major genres and styles. Also a useful teaching resource.”―Elizabeth McCallum, Perimeter College, GA

“Excellent cross-section of essay examples―a really rich selection for each rhetorical pattern.”―George Kgawitter, St. Edward’s University

“Provides a rich and varied look at how we use language.”―John A. Walsh, University of Guam

“Lively approach to the breadth and intensity of language in the world and in daily life.”―J. Agard, Muskegon Community College, MI

About the Author

Stuart Hirschberg is at Rutgers University, Newark.