Artificial language, natural history: Speech, sign, and sound in the emergence of Damin. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fleming, Luke
• Is Part Of: Language & communication. Volume 56(2017:Sep.)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 18
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: Linguistic naturalism -- Ken Hale -- Clicks -- Modality -- Male initiation -- Sign language; Communication -- Periodicals; Linguistics -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; Linguistics -- Periodicals; Communication -- Périodiques; Linguistique -- Périodiques; Communication; Linguistics; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.langcom.2017.01.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0271-5309

Abstract

Abstract: The Lardil male initiate language, Damin, is a unique linguistic system. Traditionally employed by second-order male initiates, or warama, Damin has a lexicon of no more than 150 distinct morphemes and a phonology employing ejectives and clicks—sound types unattested in other Australian languages. These esoteric features have led scholars to see Damin as an artificial or invented language. I argue that the label of linguistic artificiality forestalls explanation as much as it aids it. In this paper I show that the eccentric features of Damin developed in an emergent and unplanned manner in which conventionalized paralinguistic phonations became semanticized as they were linked up with a signed language, Marlda Kangka, employed by first-order male initiates, or luruku . Highlights: Critique of natural, as opposed to artificial, language as proper object of study. Damin male initiate speech register frequently labeled an 'invented language.' Initiate signed language (Marlda Kangka) served as a substrate for Damin. Phonetically marked forms initially used as paralinguistic accompaniments to sign. Damin is socially emergent rather than the singular invention of an individual.