Semantics: The Nature of Words and Their Meaning

by Hugh R. Walpole

264 pages, Hardcover

First published April 23, 1984

Reviews

[Keith · Rating 3 out of 5]

A solid start to semantic studies. Walpole employs a liberal use of anecdotes and language games to explain semantic concepts to the lay reader. Although I have little formal training in linguistics (especially not in a broad science like semantics), I understood most of what was outlined here. His writing style is engaging and keeps the reader interested throughout the book. However, the book dates itself constantly through references to World War II and 1930's pop culture. In addition, Walpole is obsessed with a simplified form of English known as Basic English, which he suggests be employed both to teach non-native speakers and as a teaching tool for semantic principles. I later read that this Basic English is what inspired George Orwell's Newspeak! In the last chapter, Walpole also suggests some methods of critical textual analysis further in line with postmodern thinkers. While I am not a fan of this style of close reading, it was certainly ahead of its time for a book published in 1941.

[Selena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Modern textbooks are often trash. This should be required reading for all college freshmen. Not only is it informative, it’s beautifully written and fresh. No pandering to the truth squashers here.