Internet Culture

How the internet is changing language as we know it

An interview with Gretchen McCulloch, author of ‘Because Internet.’

Matt Silverman

Posted on January 18 2021 9:28 am CST

If you’re concerned that LOLspeak and text messages are ruining language, fear not, grammar nerds!

This week on 2 GIRLS 1 PODCAST, Alli and Jen speak with linguist, author, and fellow podcaster Gretchen McCulloch, who says we are living in a special time for informal written language.

McCulloch explains why the internet is changing language and culture in unprecedented ways, how regular people solved the 500-year-long quest for written sarcasm, and why post cards from George Harrison look like your dad’s text messages.

We’re also big fans of her book, Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language.

Listen to episode 160 of #2G1P here:

Or subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

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Matt Silverman

Matt Silverman is the director of video and producer of 2 Girls 1 Podcast at the Daily Dot. He has been making internet shows and viral videos for nearly a decade, and has directed top talent including John Oliver, Kevin Bacon, Kate McKinnon, Alton Brown, and the Sesame Street Muppets. Silverman is also the creator of FREE DAD VIDEOS, a comedy and music channel with his young children.