German Spelling Reform at 30: A Retrospective Critique

In a commentary published by Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ), the 1996 spelling reform in Germany is scrutinized three decades later. The piece, titled "Heiss ersehnte Spaghetti oder heissersehnte Spagetti?", contends that the reform, intended to simplify German spelling, was largely rejected by the public and only embraced by a select group of linguists and officials. It points out the confusion stemming from alterations such as replacing 'ß' with 'ss' following short vowels. As the reform's 30th anniversary approaches in 2026, the article expresses a critical and satirical tone, advocating for a return to the traditional spelling conventions.