The Maya language doesn't acknowledge time, not even with prepositions like "before" and "after." These kinds of linguistic tics are often overlooked or outright lost when we talk about translation, but there's also a lot we can learn from them about the powers of perception and language.
How to talk about time in a language that doesn't have any tenses
History of Prisencolinensinainciusol, the gibberish English song that charmed Italy and the world
NPR wrote about Adriano Celentano's 1972 faux-English-language-hit "Prisencolinensinainciusol" (previously and previously at BB) on its 40th anniversary in 2012: Celentano, now 74 years old, says that he wanted to break down language barriers and inspire people to communicate more. "Ever since I started singing, I was very influenced by American music and everything Americans did,"… READ THE REST
Noam Chomsky on Nim Chimpsky and the emergence of language
I first learned about Nim Chimpsky while reading Karen Joy Fowler's brilliant novel We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves. I'd heard the name before, but I just thought it was a joke about Noam Chomsky. Which it is. But also, he was a real chimp, who was raised like a human child and acquired over… READ THE REST
This Mayan language animated short film is just one of dozens in indigenous Mexican languages
Back in 2013, filmmaker Gabriela Badillo launched a new collaborative project called 68 Voices, 68 Hearts, an "animated series of Mexican indigenous stories narrated in their original language, raised on the premise 'No one can love what they don't know.'" The series has so far produced 36 films in different indigenous tongues, with the ultimately… READ THE REST
Clearcover saves money for drivers who know the right auto insurance provider matters
Sometimes, it doesn't feel like being smart and driven gives you a ton of advantage over those who aren't as bright or aren't as motivated. Even though you've worked hard to launch a career, build some positive credit history, or start your journey toward a happy, productive future, the simple fact that you're what Gen… READ THE REST
This crazy-cool power station makes assembling power outlets a simple snap away
There's a reason why the Swiss Army knife has been an essential everyday carry item since long before the term EDC was even a thing. It appears to the Boy Scout mentality in all of us, with the utility to pull out a blade, corkscrew, nail file, or practically anything you need at a moment's notice. That… READ THE REST
It's one of the world's smallest action cameras, yet still shoots 1080p HD video
There are just some video projects that don't work well using a smartphone. Sure, video quality has continued to improve in those pocket marvels, but sometimes, you really don't want a phone in your hands and distracting your attention from what's ahead. You can keep your mind focused on the task at hand while still capturing every… READ THE REST