Ellen Jovin, a New York-based writer and language enthusiast, has undertaken a unique initiative to foster connections through grammar discussions. Rather than confining herself to online language groups, Jovin took her passion to the streets in 2018, setting up her “Grammar Table” in public spaces like parks, street corners, and even the subway.
With her fold-out table adorned with a prominent “Grammar Table” sign, Jovin engages with passersby on grammar intricacies across the United States. Her husband, Brandt Johnson, documented these interactions for a film titled “Rebel With A Clause,” mirroring the book she wrote about her nationwide journey.
Jovin’s aim is not to police grammar but to encourage language-related dialogues that bring people together. She believes that grammar serves as a unifying element in language and emphasizes the value of diverse linguistic expressions. Despite discussing grammar nuances, Jovin welcomes informal language variations and aims to spark enthusiasm for linguistic exploration.
The “Grammar Table” attracts a wide range of individuals, from language enthusiasts to curious passersby from various backgrounds. Jovin’s multilingual expertise, having studied 25 languages, allows her to engage with visitors in diverse linguistic contexts, fostering a sense of community through language discussions.
Johnson, moved by the connections formed at the Grammar Table, captured these moments in a documentary, recognizing the profound human connections that transcend apparent differences. Both Jovin and Johnson believe in the power of language to bridge divides and create shared experiences, evident in the positive interactions witnessed at the Grammar Table.
Through the documentary “Rebel With A Clause,” a cinematic portrayal of their grammar-focused journey, Johnson aims to showcase the beauty of these interactions and promote a message of unity through language discussions. The film has already garnered attention, drawing sold-out audiences across the United States, highlighting the universal appeal of language as a tool for connection and understanding.