The Language of Memory: Science & Stories That Define Us
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
Sunday, November 9
Capitol Extension Room: E2.014 (1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701)
What can our first and last words tell us about who we are? In this intimate and deeply researched work, linguist and author Michael Erard explores the extraordinary significance of language at life’s bookends. His latest book, Bye Bye I Love You, uncovers the cultural, historical, and biological entanglements of “first words” and “last words,” illuminating how they shape our identities and connections across time, place, and belief systems. Drawing from personal stories, anthropology, and linguistics, Erard offers a sweeping yet tender meditation on how language both introduces us to the world and helps us take our leave of it. Join him for a conversation on the profound intersections of language, memory, and what it means to be human.
- Book: Bye Bye I Love You: The Story of Our First and Last Words
- Book Type: Non Fiction
- Author: Michael Erard
- Moderator: Jessica Grogan
- Book Signing: 4:00 PM at The Main Book Signing Tent