Page:Ralcy H. Bell - The Mystery of Words (1924).pdf/101

 These differences of pronunciation Professor de Saussure discussed under the terms implosion and explosion: “implosion” covers the class falling under the closing, or fermeture, form of articulation; and “explosion” covers those that naturally come under the opposite form of articulation called the ouverture, or opening.

The merest passing reference to the complex characteristics of words and the principles which govern their relations, is sufficient indication of the mysteries involving all parts of speech. It is true that these mysteries are mainly attractive to specialists; and that a better understanding of them would be of doubtful utility in a popular sense; yet in following the subject, one gets into deep water—and out of it if he can. For one who persists, however, there are benefits to be obtained—even from the pursuit of abstractions.

Broadly, language represents the sum of impressions registered in the brain of man-