Contemporary Lao Writing
Souksomboun Sayasithsena
Foreign Service Institute
US Department of State
Washington, D.C.
USA
Abstract:
Lao writing evolved through times, from pure Pali to modified Pali-Lao. This
occurred in the Wat or temple schools. In this presentation I will focus on the
period of from late 1950’s until present. Discussion will cover variety of ways
of how people conceptualize the Lao writing system. These three major writings:
from the sound of words; the Royal Decree No. 10, in late 1950’s which included
a set of rules; and a textbook by Mr. Phoumi Vongvichit, after 1975 which
simplified each syllable spelling to a vowel and initial consonant with or
without final. Some points on Lao alphabet charts will be mentioned: the new
“sara IA” and the omission of “Ror”. And what happened since.
I will also discuss the extend to which the spelling of Lao words varies? This
includes Lao-Nork vs. Lao-Nai spellings. Is it possible for the readers to
instantly distinguish between the two? What is the reaction of readers to the
two systems?
State-of-the art texts – the use of variety of Lao fonts in computers has made a
big difference. Some examples will be presented to illustrate how typists tried
to cope with columns and justified texts. I will also talk about some
difficulties my Lao students have encountered when they use Lao-English
dictionaries?
Punctuation is another issue that I will discuss. Some samples will accompany
points of discussion.
Some grammar points will be discussed along with some features of Lao-way of
speaking, such as stressing, repeating of words, and some Tong Toi.