In an unprecedented discovery by explorers associated with the Tallisite Institute in the year -15, the Martian Archive revealed remnants of advanced technology and knowledge that predated the civilisations currently thriving across the galaxy. Among these discoveries, the finding of English as a constructed lingua franca, employed by the inhabitants of Mars and Earth prior to the cataclysm known as the Death of Earth, marked a turning point in interstellar communication and technology sharing. This article delves into the adoption of English as the universal language of the galaxy, its significance, and the innovative choice of script that accompanied its resurrection.
The exploration team from the Tallisite Institute, on a venture to uncover technologies that could benefit galactic civilisation, stumbled upon the Martian Archive, a vast repository of knowledge encapsulating the history, language, and technologies of an ancient civilisation. The archive, rich with documents, artefacts, and data storage devices, offered a glimpse into the socio-cultural fabric of Mars and Earth. Particularly noteworthy was the pervasive use of English, evidenced across various media in the archive, which suggested its status as a predominant mode of communication before the Death of Earth.
The revelation that English served as a bridge between Mars and Earth provided a compelling rationale for its adoption as the universal language of the galaxy. Several factors contributed to this decision:
Neutrality: English, having no shared history with the myriad civilisations of the galaxy, was perceived as a neutral choice, mitigating potential biases or preferential treatment among galactic entities.
Historical Significance: The reinstatement of English honoured the legacy of the civilisations lost to the Death of Earth, facilitating a symbolic continuation of their cultural and technological advancements.
Practicality: English's role in documenting the silicon semiconductor technology, pivotal in the technological renaissance of the galaxy, underscored its practical value as a medium of instruction and knowledge dissemination.
The adoption of English, while symbolically and practically fitting, necessitated a script that could transcend the historical and cultural boundaries of its Earthly origins. The Latin alphabet was deemed inadequate for the nuances and phonetics of Galactic English. Consequently, the selection of the Shavian alphabet, a phonemic script designed specifically for English, marked a forward-thinking approach to universal literacy and ease of learning.
Phonemic Accuracy: The Shavian alphabet's design closely aligns with the phonetic qualities of English, making pronunciation intuitive and learning more accessible for non-native speakers.
Simplicity and Efficiency: Its streamlined nature facilitates quicker mastery and potentially reduces errors in written communication, a critical feature for the precise exchange of information across the galaxy.
Inclusivity: By divorcing the script from Earth's historical associations and adopting a purpose-built phonemic system, the Shavian alphabet promotes a sense of shared ownership among the galaxy's diverse populations.