Slovenian Author Highlights Value of Small Languages in TED Talk

Ana Schnabl, a Slovenian author, recently delivered a TED Talk discussing the insights and value that speaking a small language like her native Slovenian can offer to speakers of major global languages. Schnabl shared a personal experience where a German cultural institution invited her to present her debut short story collection in Germany but requested that she speak German at the event.

Initially agreeing to the request, Schnabl later decided to ask for an interpreter, realizing that she could assert her identity as a Slovenian writer. In her talk, she emphasized the richness and diversity of the Slovenian language, which has 30 dialects and unique features such as the dual form.

Schnabl contended that speakers of small languages have managed to resist the pressures of imperialism and celebrate their perseverance. She highlighted that hundreds of Slovenian fiction and poetry titles are published each year, demonstrating the vitality of the language. Schnabl believes that the value of a language is bestowed by its speakers and that Slovenian has survived by borrowing and expanding rather than refusing and enclosing.

Why this matters: Schnabl's TED Talk sheds light on the importance of preserving and celebrating linguistic diversity in an increasingly globalized world. Her experience serves as a reminder that small languages offer valuable cultural perspectives and insights that can enrich the understanding of speakers of major global languages.

Through her personal story and reflections on the Slovenian language, Schnabl's talk highlights the resilience and adaptability of small language communities. "Language value is bestowed by its speakers," Schnabl emphasized, stressing the role of individuals in maintaining and promoting their linguistic heritage.

Key Takeaways

• Slovenian author Ana Schnabl delivered a TED Talk on value of small languages.
• Schnabl asserted her identity as a Slovenian writer by requesting an interpreter.
• Slovenian language has 30 dialects and unique features like the dual form.
• Hundreds of Slovenian fiction and poetry titles are published annually.
• Language value is bestowed by its speakers, not its size, per Schnabl.