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Adaptability Quote by Robert Lane Greene

“Language is changing constantly; printing and modern education have slowed it but have not stopped it. Given all this change, when, exactly, was language PERFECT, in the language pundit's mind? One has the feeling that the decline-mongers would feel rather sheepish has reading any answer. The…” quote by Robert Lane Greene
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““Language is changing constantly; printing and modern education have slowed it but have not stopped it. Given all this change, when, exactly, was language PERFECT, in the language pundit's mind? One has the feeling that the decline-mongers would feel rather sheepish has reading any answer. The 1950s? The Edwardian era? The real answer, however rarely expressed, seems to be "when Island it as a young person.””

Robert Lane Greene

About This Quote

Source Book: The 48 Laws of Power, Robert Greene, 1998

Language evolves continuously; printing and modern education slowed its pace but never halted change, and no era can be deemed perfect.

In simple terms: Language never stops changing; no perfect time exists.

Key Takeaway

Accept language as a living, evolving tool.

Themes

change language history communication

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • publishing industry
  • digital media
  • personal language learning

Key Concepts

Sociolinguistics technological impact cultural shift

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you adapt to language change?
  • What era do you think best reflects linguistic richness?
A Different Perspective

The notion of a "perfect" language is subjective and ignores ongoing evolution.

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