2025/12/10 by Edwin Ko, Jem Burch
#Crow #language documentation #transcription
paper · doi:10.25894/ldd.2761
In this paper we examine a key aspect of documentary linguistic practice by reflecting on our approach to the transcription of recorded narratives in Apsáalooke (Crow), a Siouan language primarily spoken in Montana, USA. We discuss the creation of transcripts that serve multiple audiences and highlight transcription as an iterative and evolving process that can sometimes give rise to multiple interpretations. In particular, we describe how a single audio recording may yield several valid interpretations, not only by different individuals but also the same person on separate occasions. This finding underscores how factors such as collaboration, timing, and setting influence the resulting transcript. Since transcripts play a crucial role in linguistic research and the development of community-oriented resources, we advocate for greater self-reflection in transcription practices. We conclude by considering the implications for transcription and digital archiving practices and provide practical recommendations for researchers engaged in language documentation.