Terry Gross

You even describe how, like, if someone's at a dinner party who has lost a spouse, they're often, they won't use the word death because that's too scary to the other people.

They'll say past.

While we're talking about language, when you were a lexicographer, I think part of your job was deciding what new words or expressions should be entered into the dictionary.

Are there any you can take credit for?

LAUGHTER

Let's go to the dirty words.

I want to know what the criteria are for dirty words.

I like that grope is in there too.

Oh, so it was meant to be literal.

Well, congratulations for getting that into the dictionary.

Julian Barnes, it's been a pleasure to talk with you.

Thank you so much.

And I wish you stable health and long life.

Julian Barnes' new book is called Departures.

After we take a short break, TV critic David Bianculli will review the new series Star Trek Starfleet Academy.

Its stars include Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti.

This is Fresh Air.

Today, Paramount Plus introduces yet another series in the Star Trek universe of TV shows.

This one is called Star Trek Starfleet Academy, and its stars include Holly Hunter and Paul Giamatti.

Our TV critic, David Bianculli, has this review.