Here’s a pretty awesome view of the history of computing languages. Yay for O’Reilly. Very cool chart indeed. Its kind of scary how old C is now. And its still kicking around doing big jobs.
Keeping in the language vein, here’s a blogger who says you can learn (but not master) any language in the short space of time of an hour. To me his suggestions seem obvious, but maybe its because I’m inherently analytical about things. Still the author poses an interesting argument. As to whether it can be a method repeatable by anyone is yet to be seen.
Much like widget, gadget, thingamajig, thingamabob (et al.), wing wang (sometimes hyphenated) is a placeholder name for a real thing. For instance, the widget is broken. Or the thingamajig is loose. These are words that can be used in place of actual items who’s identity are not known.
I am in favor for the increased useage of wing wang. For example, “the wing wang detached so the phlange panel fell off”. Using the term, wing wang is a great way to add variety to your repertoire.
Further, I admonish the usage of the word wang in its verb form. Wang v. To hit or strike with great force. Ex. I wanged my knee against the table.
I’m always looking for ways to improve my thought processes and abilities. Consequently, I’ve stumbled on this article which claims to be able to help you develop independent thought. While I haven’t gotten a chance to try the technique, I use a method similar to the one presented. I have a feeling their system is probably credible.
Here are two completely unrelated things. One a “cute” essay about English language that has made its rounds on the Internet a million times over, but I’ve now actually seen the full essay.
And two, a crazy obstacle course from a show called Ninja Warrior. I really would like to give it a try. The story is 500 have tried, only 2 have done the entire course. Looks fun and taxing.
Heading out of town this weekend which means I’ll have to pack. I’ll be making lists and checking stuff off! I think my favorite part of anything is making lists. Which is kind of why I like 43things. Make a list of things you want to do (maximum 43 things, hence the name) and do it. So far I’ve accomplished only a few things but it has helped me organize what I want to do. While it might seem a bit gimmicky, its a way to meet people who share similiar interests, all the while trying to accomplish stuff you want to do in life. Anyone who knows me, knows I’m big on self-improvement (and empowerment [eww, i just used a buzz word]). I think allowing the technology (websites/services/machines) handle things for you, lets you keep your hands free to do the important things. Personally, I believe in letting the machines work for me and not against me. But they always want to work against me. The savages! Fun word: resistentialism (#22 on the list).
Sort of a follow up post because I didn’t want to jam any more stuff into the last post. Here’s a good google talk about everyone’s favorite reference book: Dictionaries. Its mostly entertaining actually.
I’ve always considered myself to have a fairly firm grasp on the English language and its uses. I’ve even received my fair share of accolades and complements when it comes to writing correctly. Recently though, I feel as if my writing style as well as capabilities have become lacking (before this sentence was edited I was mixing tenses; earlier I was mixing pluralities ). I find it difficult to construct sentences with a coherent thought and words that never gave me a bit of trouble to spell, like “tomorrow” and “compatibility” are terrifyingly difficult to handle.
I wish I could account for the “dumbing down” of my writing, but I am at a loss. So to attack the symptom in hopes that the problem goes away, I’ve decided to write, write and write some more. Practice makes perfect as they say. Funny how people who are extremely good at things typically share things in common with people who are diagnosed with mental illnesses according to the DSM4: they perform the same actions repeatedly in an obessive manner.
Ok, now that I’ve sufficently digressed from the topic at hand. I figure the best way to write is not just to write, but to write for a purpose; fill a need for content. I know people who are too busy to have a blog, but guess what? Why not write one for them. Yes, I think I should ghostwrite someone’s blog. I mean it solves two problems, so its gotta be a good idea right?
Oh yes, if you’re a pedant about the particulars of the english language, hit up Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing. Its a podcast type deal but its mostly entertaining and educational. Good for revisiting all those grammatical rules you don’t ever use. Grammar Girl’s recently been featured on TV. Go go grammar girl! Heh, alliteration is fun.
). I find it difficult to construct sentences with a coherent thought and words that never gave me a bit of trouble to spell, like “tomorrow” and “compatibility” are terrifyingly difficult to handle.
