This paper challenges both the theoretical assumptions and the quantitative method underlying comparative studies of spoken and written language and proposes a sociolinguistic model that relates linguistic forms to macro-sociological contexts, communicative goal, and function. Drawing upon data derived from oral ritual communication in nonliterate societies and adopting a comparative, meta-analytical approach, the paper provides evidence for basic similarities in form and function between formal spoken and formal written language. It is argued that more is known about the relationships between discourse types by viewing linguistic structures in relation to historical, social, cultural, political, and ideological contexts rather than by viewing them as "autonomous" objects reducible to mere tokens. The implications of the findings for sociolinguistic theory are highlighted, while future research directions are indicated.
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