In "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency," Alexander McCall Smith highlights the richness of language related to physical actions like pushing and carrying, suggesting a world full of complexity and functionality. The abundance of terms for these actions reflects the tangible aspects of life that often dominate human experience.

Conversely, the absence of words for emotions such as love and happiness, as well as the simple joys like the morning songs of birds, underscores a cultural tendency to overlook the importance of these delicate and profound experiences. This contrast invites reflection on how we value different aspects of communication and existence.