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Grammar and Vocabulary of the Lau Language, Solomon Islands   By: (1871-)

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In "Grammar and Vocabulary of the Lau Language, Solomon Islands," W. G. Ivens provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the Lau language spoken in the Solomon Islands. The book delves deep into the intricacies of Lau grammar and vocabulary, making it an invaluable resource for linguistics enthusiasts and researchers.

Ivens starts by presenting a concise introduction to the Lau people and their cultural background, offering readers a solid understanding of the socio-linguistic context in which the language thrives. This sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of the Lau language's structure, phonetics, and phonology. The author's thorough analysis is complemented by numerous examples that illustrate the application of linguistic concepts, aiding in the reader's comprehension.

One of the strongest aspects of Ivens' book is its clarity and organization. The author effectively breaks down grammatical rules and concepts into digestible sections, making it accessible for both novice readers and seasoned linguists. He also provides a helpful guide to pronunciation, ensuring that readers can accurately reproduce Lau sounds while studying the language.

Additionally, Ivens' inclusion of a rich vocabulary section greatly enhances the book's usefulness. The extensive list of Lau words, their meanings, and contextual usage gives readers the means to expand their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of the language. This resource would be particularly valuable for individuals planning to visit or work in the Solomon Islands.

It is worth noting that this book, while undoubtedly comprehensive, may not be suitable for readers seeking a casual introduction to the Lau language. Its primary focus is on the detailed analysis of grammar and vocabulary, which might deter those in search of a lighter, more introductory text.

Overall, "Grammar and Vocabulary of the Lau Language, Solomon Islands" by W. G. Ivens is an impressive and scholarly work that thoroughly explores the intricacies of the Lau language. Its well-structured content, numerous examples, and extensive vocabulary lists make it an essential resource for anyone interested in studying this fascinating language.

First Page:

Transcriber's Note: Some umlauts and other fine distinctions of Sa'a orthography have been lost. The Lau orthography is correct as given.

GRAMMAR AND VOCABULARY OF THE LAU LANGUAGE: SOLOMON ISLANDS

BY

WALTER G. IVENS, M. A., LITT. D.

CARNEGIE INSTITUTION OF WASHINGTON PUBLICATION NO. 300

PREFACE.

Lau is the name given to the language spoken by the inhabitants of the artificial islets which lie off the northeast coast of Big Malaita, Solomon Islands. The language spoken on the coast from Uru on the northeast to Langalanga, Alite Harbor, on the northwest of Big Malaita, is practically Lau. On the west coast there is considerable admixture of Fiu, which is the language of the bush behind the Langalanga lagoon. In Dr. Codrington's "Melanesian Languages," pp. 39 et seq., certain words are given as spoken at Alite in Langalanga. These words are probably Fiu rather than Lau.

The purest Lau is spoken at Sulufou, one of the artificial islets near Atta Cove. The inhabitants of Ai lali, on the mainland of Big Malaita opposite the island Aio, are an offshoot of the Lau speaking peoples. In Port Adam (Malau) on Little Malaita, some 12 miles north of Sa'a, there are two villages, Ramarama and Malede, inhabited by Lau speaking peoples, and the inhabitants of these villages hold as a tradition that their forefathers migrated from Suraina, near Atta Cove, 80 miles away, along the coast to the north... Continue reading book >>




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