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200 pages and growing

M. Momoda
M. Momoda schrieb am 08.04.2009

We still have a ways to go, but I now have 200 pages of signs. It's only a dent, but it's a start and we seem to have the system down now. I go to the deaf school in the afternoons after their classes have finished. They're either playing checkers, making artifical roses or doing aerobics, but there is always a core of students eager to look over the previous day's drafts and get ready for more photos. It's not always easy since I can't just yell out "cheese".

In making this book, there's a big responsibility to get it right. Hopefully, it will be used as a reference for years to come. There are many retakes and plenty of discussion over what is "correct". My strategy is to continually revise and invite more feedback.

Sign language addresses all the primary issues of language itself. Language doesn't originate carved in stone and  is continually changing. On the other hand, without a mutually agreed upon system of meaning, it is reduced to  warbles, chirps and bumbling charades. A developed language is not only about economy and efficiency, it's also about fine-tuning an instrument that can express the subtle nuances and emotional depths or our experiences. That's why helping to develop Lao sign language is important. I'm sure they can be told to "clean up" or "brush your teeth", but given the chance, what would they want to express?