When nobody understands

Mark Abler, a Canadian writer, says the protection of endangered species
is closely linked to the preservation of tongues. On a recent expedition
in Australia, a rare turtle was found to have two varieties; a dying but
rich native language, Gagudju, had different words for each kind.

Thanks to electronics, saviours of languages have better tools than ever
before; words and sounds can easily be posted on the internet.
Educational techniques are improving, too. In New Zealand Maori-speakers
have formed "language nests", in which grandparents coach toddlers in
the old tongue. Australia's dying Kamilaroi language was boosted by pop
songs teenagers liked. But whatever tricks or technology are used, the
only test of a language's viability is everyday life. "The way to save
languages is to speak them," says Mr Austin. "People have to talk to
people."

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