A Digression: Sad but True!
of a living, evolving language throughout the world is exactly the opposite of what the adherents of Esperanto want. For they are dedicated to the idea of a fixed, immutable, universal tongue..."
I hope that all of my readers share my disappointment that a reputable publisher such as Collins exercised such poor editorial control and permitted the publication of such a collection of nonsense and downright untruths.
The only reason I bring it to your attention here is to remind you of what I have already mentioned in the past that, in common with many other progressive and praiseworthy ideas, Esperanto is scurrilously attacked, not from the standpoint of rational argument, supported by incontrovertible facts, but out of pure malice and prejudice. Unfortunately, the practice of publishing incorrect statements is far more common than is generally realised. We all need to be on our guard when confronted by statements (no matter how impressive the source), which claim to be "obviously" true. Quite often, that word "obviously" is there, in the absence of any factual evidence, as an attempt to validate unadulterated balderdash.
In conclusion, let me note that the publishing house of William Collins, Sons & Co. was first "acquired" by the American firm, The News Corporation, a global media company with interests in television, film, and newspapers, and then merged with Harper & Row. For details see HarperCollins
Up to now, no media conglomerate has gobbled up Esperanto. Dr. Zamenhof's legacy remains the property of mankind!
Next week I'll return to the topic of the non-existent Esperanto literature! I hope you'll join me then.
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