Cambridge – In a groundbreaking linguistic development, English has announced plans to add more letters to its alphabet to accommodate the ever-expanding LGBTQI+ community. Linguists, in a move described as both progressive and excessively complicated, have decided that the existing 26 letters are simply not enough to capture the diversity of gender identities and sexual orientations.
The newly established UK-based “Inclusive Nexus of English Proficiency and Thought”, or INEPT for short, revealed that the decision to add more letters was a response to the growing demand for inclusivity. “We realized that our current alphabet was woefully inadequate in representing the vast spectrum of human experiences,” said Dr. Quill the head of INEPT. “We aim to be at the forefront of linguistic evolution and ensure that no one feels left out when it comes to expressing themselves through language.”
The proposed additions include the Greek alphabet and a few punctuation marks, because who doesn’t love a good semicolon when discussing matters of identity? The new additions are meant to represent a multitude of gender identities and orientations, from alpha^^gender to gamma-sexual!
Critics argue that the expansion is unnecessary and will only lead to confusion. “I can barely spell ‘antidisestablishmentarianism,’ and now you want me to remember all these new letters?” lamented one disgruntled citizen. “It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube while juggling flaming bowling pins.”
Language purists are also concerned about the impact on literature and communication. “What’s next? A novel with more punctuation than words?” questioned an exasperated grammar enthusiast. “I fear for the future of English literature. Imagine Shakespeare trying to fit ‘Zomnisexual’ into iambic pentameter.”
The announcement has sparked a heated debate on social media, with some applauding the move for its inclusivity, while others are already planning to start a resistance movement called “Save Our Syllables” (SOS). Scrabble enthusiasts the country over are dreading having to buy new scrabble boards with the additional Greek letters and punctuation.
In the midst of the controversy, INEPT remains steadfast in its mission. “Language is a living, breathing entity that should evolve with society,” declared Dr. Quill. “If you can’t handle a few extra letters, perhaps it’s time to expand your mind along with the alphabet.” While some agree wholeheartedly with Dr Quill, others feel that INEPT is, well, rather inept.
Only time will tell if this linguistic experiment will be embraced or if it will join the ranks of other failed attempts, such as spelling “colour” with a “u” in American English. Until then, language enthusiasts are advised to stock up on extra vowels and consonants, just in case the alphabet keeps growing like an alphabet soup on steroids.