zabAn

Linguistic Composition of Iran

2010-11-28T16:20:02Z

Here’s a map showing the distribution of languages spoken in Iran by MESH, Middle East Strategy at Harvard.

International Phonetic Association

2009-04-05T06:46:00Z

You may be wondering why this site chooses not to use the International Phonetic Association (IPA)'s notation to transliterate Persian text.

Paradoxical Commandments - use of adverb “anyway”.

2007-06-14T08:19:00Z

Here is a text that highlights one of my favorite Adverbs, “Anyway”. We have translated it into “به هر حال” in Persian. Here, then, is the translation of Kent Keith’s “Paradoxical Commandments” in Persian! Translated with the help of Dr. Razani and Ms. Javadpour.

Using Forums in Persian

2006-12-21T23:46:00Z

Those of you who are comfortable typing Persian may be frustrated with the forums because the default theme (“Developer”) is set from left to right. Don’t panic! All you need to do is switch from the default theme to the Persian right to left theme (“Developer-pe-rtl”). When you change the theme, you change the direction, but all the data remains the same. And you can easily switch back. Effectively, you can interface with the forum in two different modes. Here’s how it works:

Setting up Your Computer for Persian

2006-12-21T07:13:00Z

This website is compatible with Persian script.

you can write comments in Persian,
post on the Forums in Persian,
even search in Persian.

How? Here are some tips for viewing Persian script properly on your browser, setting up your computer for Persian input in PC and Mac, and typing in Persian.

Mission, Goals, Principles, Motivation, Vision

2006-12-20T23:25:00Z

We love language! This website is dedicated to the exploration of Persian and English and language in general. Being bilingual is cool. It all started with these double sided magnets which have really helped us in our enjoyment of language. For one thing, designing magnets required us to break down the language into parts and particles of speech. This is really handy for deconstructing language and gaining a quick and intuitive grasp of it. The magnets are part of a larger mission, with a sweeping vision. Read on for the details of our secret agenda.

You have my word

2006-12-20T19:06:00Z

In English, to make a promise is to “give someone your word” that you will do something. With the Persian word magnets, you can give someone your word literally!

All this history, what is it good for?

2006-12-20T18:49:00Z

In which we ask, what is history good for? And come up with several useful suggestions. We're open to more, of course! Chip in : )

How to Beshkan

2006-12-20T08:04:01Z

In this instructional video, the mysteries of Beshkan will be revealed! First, are you right handed or left handed? The video shows a left-handed beshkan (actually, right handed, taken in the mirror.). The frames below that show the right hand Beshkan. Now, let’s go to video:

Beshkan aka “Crazy Iranian Hand Jive”

2006-12-20T07:07:00Z

What is Beshkan?

“Beshkan” is traditional Persian two handed finger snapping. We don’t know how traditional it is, or when it originated, but we do have some live footage to show you that you, too, can make this freaky sound. No double jointedness required. Ordinary hands will suffice.

The Arrows of Arash

2006-12-20T04:52:00Z

Arash(e) kamAngir is my current favorite mythological hero. The guy was an archer. In a Buddhist way, he became the arrow, and he is flying still.

Coining the Phrase “Simorq’anize”

2006-12-19T04:38:00Z

What the heck? “Simorq-anize?” You can’t make up words like that!

Let’s get Simorqanized!

2006-12-19T03:28:00Z

Persian (a.k.a. Iranian) mythology is filled with fantastical bird stories. These stories are elaborate metaphors that have transcendental, universal implications and are relevant to our post-modern world. Here is a look at the mythic bird, Simorq.

Getting More Out of Persian

2006-12-18T23:57:01Z

I think it was Rumi (and correct me here!) who said:

گاو در بغداد آيد يك زمان
او رود از اين كران تا آن كران
از همه عيش و خوشيها و مزه
او نبيند جز دو پوست خربزه

Which means, of course: A cow came to Baghdad for a time. It went from one (riparian?) coast to the other. From all the luxuries, delights and tastes to be had, it saw naught but two melon rinds.

Word Stitching

2006-12-18T12:10:00Z

Here are some examples of ways you can use the magnets. A snapshot of some on the board showing a “crossword puzzle” effect.