The Language of Pandemics

During this year 2020, all of us in the ESJ Family are celebrating the
ESJ 10th anniversary. When I was asked to edit a special edition, at first, I
was reluctant, because I really did not know what to propose. During those
months, the whole world was in total lockdown and the only communication
means were our telephones and computers. I did all my university lessons
online, all the institutional meetings online, I even met many of my students
online. Therefore, being forced to stay home, I decided to start this task that
was unknown to me and wonder into the Language of Pandemics. I invited
some of my dearest Colleagues, and some of them accepted to participate
with me in this unique experience; unique because I hope that we will not
have the chance again to live such an experience as the one we are living
during these strange days.
The coronavirus pandemic has abruptly changed our lives. Suddenly,
our life modes were frozen and petrified into shapes that were unknown to
us. The cities were deserted; we were all locked down in our houses with our
beliefs, ideas, thoughts, joys, and fears. In these peculiar, unusual, unnatural
conditions, we have all found out that we are susceptible, liable, and fragile.
We have discovered internal resources never seen before, but that the support
of our family and friends is crucial. We have realized that we are humane!
Language is the most human characteristics, and during this pandemic,
language has been proclaimed and elevated to its natural status: as the only
means human beings have to stay in touch with, share, and participate in each
other’s lives. Sharing and participation have been possible thanks to the
Internet and all the technological devices that have become extensions of our
bodies.