Questions at Issue in Our English Speech

"Questions at Issue in Our English Speech" by Edwin W. Bowen is a set of essays from the early 1900s that explores the complexities of the English language. The book looks at spelling, pronunciation, and how language changes as time passes. It seems aimed at those who are interested in linguistics or the detailed parts of English speaking and word use. The start of the book brings up the thought that written language doesn't fully show spoken language, which is forever changing. Bowen tells how English spelling hasn't really changed since printing started, even though spoken English has greatly changed. He talks about the weird parts of spelling, how the printing press affected keeping things standard, and how different accents and social things affect how people say words. This opening part prepares the reader for a closer look at language problems and points out how English speech acts in different time periods.