With the pervasiveness of vitriol and dishonesty today, language needs to be revived and restored. In Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies, Marilyn McEntyre exposes the commercial and political
With the pervasiveness of vitriol and dishonesty today, language needs to be revived and restored. In Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies, Marilyn McEntyre exposes the commercial and political forces that affect public discourse in American culture and counters with twelve constructive “strategies of stewardship”—such as challenging lies (including widely tolerated forms of deception and spin), fostering the art of conversation, and encouraging playfulness and prayerfulness in writing and speaking.
The second edition of this timely and timeless book includes updated cultural references and questions for reflection and discussion at the end, allowing a new generation of readers to apply McEntyre’s wisdom in a world that struggles with truth and graceful language more than ever before.
“A wonderfully composed treatise.”
— The Christian Century
“A successful textual balance between sustenance and delicacy.”
— Religion and the Arts
Interpretation
“This book promises to be a major contribution to the postliberal tradition of homiletics that it summarizes, expands, nuances, and strives to correct.”
Reviews in Religion & Theology
“The author shows us the importance of exchanging words to cherish and steward the gift of language.”
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Marilyn McEntyre is the author of several books on language and faith, including What's in a Phrase? Pausing Where Scripture Gives You Pause (winner of a Christianity Today 2015 book award in spirituality), When Poets Pray, and Speaking Peace in a Climate of Conflict.
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Table of Contents
An Introductory Word to Readers
Why Worry about Words?
1. Love Words
2. Tell the Truth
3. Don’t Tolerate Lies
4. Read Well
5. Stay in Conversation
6. Share Stories
7. Love the Long Sentence
8. Practice Poetry
9. Attend to Translation
10. Play
11. Pray
12. Cherish Silence
Questions for Discussion
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