Summary:
The book explores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the English language, examining how words change in meaning, pronunciation, and usage over time. It delves into the linguistic forces and social factors that drive these changes, challenging the notion that such shifts represent a decline in language quality.
Key points:
1. Language Evolves: McWhorter shows that language changes over time, rejecting the idea of a fixed, correct way to speak. English is always in flux, with changes in words' meanings, sounds, and use.
