What is this?

Some little language started life in January 2021 as a monthly newsletter on intercultural communication, language, rituals, books, and the ideas that connect them.

As I moved away from academic work and my interests gradually shifted, it evolved dynamically into an exploration of experiences and topics that feature in my thinking. Recurring themes include Stoicism in everyday life; memoir writing and the writing life; and Eckhart Tolle’s teachings in The Power of Now and his other books.

Why subscribe?

I was tempted to write “because you live on earth and interact with people”. Too wide? What I’m trying to say is that the topics I explore are like ocean water is to a fish: surrounding all human life.

In Some little language I gaze at the world, curious for and fascinated by its people in their differences and similarities.

Who am I?

Greek by birth, British by education, Iranian by marriage, I move psychologically and sometimes physically between my homelands. I observe people, behaviours and rituals, elements of culture, ways of thinking and being.  I analysed Persian politeness for my PhD and wrote Among the Iranians: A Guide to Iran’s Culture and Customs (Intercultural Press, 2010).

I read, (over)think and (under)write.

I have been blogging in London, and during my previous life in Iran in three older blogs (links here). The boring stuff (aka academic work and other writing) lives here.

Stay up-to-date

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Join the crew

Be part of a community of people sharing a fascination for everything intercultural; you may be able to make connections with other practices or cultures; you may have comments, ideas and observations. and do get in touch with me with feedback, ideas and suggestions. I’d love to hear from you! My email is sakoutlaki@gmail.com

To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.