A Gen Xer's Take on Grammar and Language

Gen X isn't the most outspoken generation. Heck, we aren't even the most talked-about generation — not even close. In fact, we're often ignored, so much so that it's embedded in our identity. So, why bother writing down my thoughts about language and grammar or anything at all? Good question. I'm not sure I have a good answer, but take my wisdom for what it's worth. Or don't. I'm a Gen Xer. I don't really care either way.

What I do care about is my job. I'm a professional communicator. I spend much of my day writing and proofing content, so I'm immersed in language all day. In my role, I'm often called upon to "correct" the "mistakes" I come across in others' writing. Lately, I've been thinking about who decided what's correct when it comes to language, and I'm conflicted. 

My practical side loves guidelines. They allow for clear communication. They make things simple: follow the rules, and you're good to go. But rules also promote freedom from questioning, and that idea makes me uncomfortable because my philosophical side knows that rules — around language and everything else, really — are arbitrary and often declared by those in power. The rules that govern language and grammar, in particular, are not only made up, but are ever-evolving. They are not fundamental truths. On the contrary, they are moving targets.

Language isn't just a conduit for communication, it's also an expression of who you are and how you relate to others. Formal, familiar, colloquial — which approach you use says a lot about who you are, what your message is and who you're talking to. (For example, I didn't use "whom" just now because I think it's an antiquated and pretentious word that nobody really knows when or how to use, and even if you do, you sound silly using it. Plus, my meaning was clear without it.)

If the purpose of language is communication, and if you're managing to get your intended point across, does it really matter which words you choose?

The answer is an unfortunate yes.

As a GenXer, I'm firmly rooted in reality. I may not always like that reality, and I may rail against it in my own way, but I also recognize the importance of learning to function within it. This is the attitude I bring to my writing. When I'm writing or proofing, I ask myself who the intended audience is, and I proceed accordingly. I love bringing accessibility and realness to my writing whenever possible, but sometimes a formal tone is important because it's what resonates with your audience. And if you're not connecting with your audience, then the conversation is over before it has even begun.

As a reformed language and grammar snob, I'll admit that being a member of that club can be fun in a snarky way. It makes you feel like you're just a liiiiittle bit better than everyone else because you have special knowledge that sets you apart. But the truth is, membership to that club is on shaky ground. Remember the part where I said the rules are all made up? Not only are they made up, but their history is steeped in privilege. Think about who was allowed to know how to read and write throughout much of history: wealthy white men and nobody else. When you begin to see behind that curtain, the thrill of being a member of the Correct Grammar Club loses its shimmer.

The best part about language is that thing I said in the beginning about how it's ever-evolving. I hold on to that thought because it leaves room for flexibility, possibility, greater accessibility... and the right kind of freedom.