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Sapir-Worf and the Guitar

I've never been much of a believer in strong versions of the Sapir-Worf theory of human language. Although it seems true that culture and language are connected, it doesn't seem to make sense to talk about determinism. Both language and culture changes with human experience, or is there something innate in the German language that allowed Einstein to express the ideas of relativity?

That said, the guitar and amplifier that I have — and the conditions under which I play — have certainly affected the music that I can play.

Sapir-Worf and the Guitar take II

I want to make a few clarifications about the previous "essay."

First off, an important condition driving the music that I didn't mention is the fact that I play alone — and there just isn't a lot of solo guitar, period. Okay, stuff that isn't sing-a-long music. Even surf music, which is very guitar heavy, is normally meant to be played along with drums and at least one other guitar/bass instrument. I do like surf though, and I'd like to learn some.

So not having all of the other instruments around restricts what I can play and not be annoyed at hearing.

Second, Celtic fingerstyle is by no means easy. I hope I didn't give that impression. One of the basic ideas behind this style, which is very nice for a solo guitar, is playing the bass and the melody at once on the same guitar. It sounds nice, but getting the timing right is hard work.

All of that said, I'm still glad I have the electric. Plugging the thing into Garage Band, putting together a crazy stack of effects and plugging in a set of headphones (so the neighbors don't hate me) is amazing. The sound is completely transformed from sweet and melodic into thunderous and awesome. Amazing Grace cranks crazy.

Maybe I need to go punk.