Watch Secrets and Words

Secrets and Words is a television series that began airing in 2012, produced and distributed by Content Media Corporation. The show is a collection of 26 episodes that each span around half an hour and explores the fascinating relationships between words and people, mainly through the prism of various languages and cultures.

The overarching theme of the show is the power of language in shaping human identities, communities, and worldviews. It delves into the origins, meanings, and uses of words in different contexts, as well as the emotions, memories, and values that they embody and transmit. The show features a diverse range of topics, from the quirky histories of everyday words to the intricate subtleties of idiomatic expressions, from the global impact of English to the endangered languages and dialects of indigenous peoples.

Each episode centers around a particular language or linguistic phenomenon, which is explored through interviews with linguists, writers, translators, and ordinary people who speak or study the language. The show's host is the veteran British journalist and broadcaster Frank Delaney, who brings a lively and witty approach to the subject matter. He engages with the guests in an informal and conversational style, encouraging them to share their personal stories and perspectives on the language in question.

Some of the episodes focus on famous languages such as French, German, Spanish, and Chinese, providing insights into their grammar, vocabulary, and cultural contexts. For instance, one episode examines the fascinating nuances of French expressions of love, including the delicate distinction between "aimer" and "adorer," while another explores the paradoxical meanings of German compound words, such as "Schadenfreude" or "Wanderlust." Similarly, an episode on Spanish linguistics explores the complex history of Castilian, the most widely spoken dialect, and its variations across Latin America and Spain.

Other episodes delve into more specific aspects of language, such as etymology, slang, and dialects. For example, one episode traces the evolution of English words from their Latin and Greek roots, showcasing how even the most mundane terms have a rich and often unexpected history. Another episode spotlights the colorful world of British slang, revealing the idiosyncrasies and cultural references that make it both playful and elusive. A third episode celebrates the diverse range of dialects found in the British Isles, from the lilting brogue of Northern Ireland to the sing-song intonations of Yorkshire.

In addition to featuring experts and enthusiasts who share their knowledge and love of language, Secrets and Words also highlights the ways in which language connects people and reflects their identity and experience. Many guests share personal anecdotes about how they learned a language, how it helped them integrate into a new culture, or how it shaped their upbringing and family life. The show also showcases various linguistic communities around the world who struggle to preserve their mother tongues in the face of globalization, urbanization, and social change.

Overall, Secrets and Words is a delightful and enlightening series that showcases the beauty, complexity, and diversity of language, while also revealing its crucial role in human communication and culture. Whether you are a language buff or simply curious about the way we use words, this show is sure to provide you with plenty of food for thought and entertainment.

Secrets and Words is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between March 26, 2012 and on Content Media Corporation