How to Speak Money

About This Audiobook

John Lanchester doesn’t just explain financial jargon—he dissects the power structures behind it. In *How to Speak Money*, he treats economic language as both a practical toolkit and a weapon of obfuscation, revealing how terms like 'liquidity' or 'securitization' aren’t neutral descriptors but often serve to exclude and manipulate. This isn’t a dry glossary; it’s a spirited, often wry critique of how financial elites use vocabulary to maintain control. Lanchester’s British wit and journalistic precision make complex ideas accessible without oversimplifying, and his skepticism toward financial propaganda gives the book a necessary edge. It’s the kind of guide that arms ordinary people with the clarity they need to question what they’re told about markets, debt, and value. Sean Pratt’s narration elevates the material with a calm, conversational tone that feels like a knowledgeable friend walking you through a minefield. His pacing is steady, never rushed, allowing dense concepts to settle without dragging. What makes this audiobook distinctive is how seamlessly it blends education with cultural critique—you’re not just learning terms, you’re learning to spot when you’re being bullshitted. The production is clean and focused, ideal for commuters or listeners new to financial topics. While the sheer volume of terminology can feel overwhelming in long stretches, the audiobook rewards patience with lasting insight.