Generosity of Ignorance

Years ago, I dated an Icelandic woman who—among many other accolades—was an enthusiastic linguist.

She spoke a handful of languages, and was always endeavoring to further her grasp of them. Which in the context of our relationship often meant her asking me about English words and meanings.

She already spoke English incredibly well, and when she asked about this subject she went beyond simple questions, tugging at the threads of a term or concept until she’d unspooled every last detail abou...