'Lost for Words' by John Humphrys

I read ‘lost for words’ since I recognised Humphrys from Radio 4. On the ‘today’ programme, I enjoy how he is keen to give his own opinion and I thought this would enhance the book as his alternative interpretations would separate this book from others I have read.  However his opinion overrides everything, so much so that he includes very little content.

An example of one of his rigid opinion was when he said that the standard of the English language is decreasing. I agree to a certain extent that we should follow certain rules in language so that others do not see our English as ‘lazy’. But, unlike Humphrys, I understand that language is always changing and should change to suit requirements.

Since his opinion is so overpowering, he seldom uses relevant examples of language. He does however link all of his points back to politics, not adding to his linguistics enquiries. He also recalls many anecdotes, which instead of relating to the language he is discussing, only brags about the famous people he has met.

Despite my negative comments, Humphrys mentions right at the start that the book is only about his opinions and therefore if you keep this in mind, along with the fact that this is not an academic or reference book, this may be the book for you.

This quote from the Guardian website sums up this book for me:

‘The grumpiest man on radio stakes his claim to the title of grumpiest pedant on Grub St.’