Mother Tongue
moSociety often influences the identity of an individual through different factors, one of which is language. “The power of language can evoke an emotion, a visual image, a complex idea, or a simple truth” (FYR: 84). Language is used daily in our lives, and therefore plays a significant role in shaping our identity. The narrative “Mother Tongue” depicts the variations of the English language, and the nature of talk. Amy Tan also shares the story of her mother’s “broken” English and how this limited her perception of hers mother’s communication with others. Language can be developed both through environment, and one’s personal experiences. The power of language is essential in the way we express and communicate with one another.
We all grow up surrounded by different forms of English speaking, which is due to the atmosphere we are raised in. As denoted in the narrative Amy Tan says “But I do think that the language spoken in family, especially in immigrant families which is more insular, plays a large role in shaping the language of the child”. (FYR: 87) Coming from an immigrant family myself I can concur with the opinion of Amy Tan. My mother like that of Amy Tan speaks “broken” English and I too am so accustomed to it, I have no trouble understanding her. However, all do not understand my mother’s language since it’s not the “proper” fluent English many people are familiar with. My mother is at disadvantage to obtain equal opportunities and services due to the language barrier society impose.
My relationship with my mother at home perhaps adds to the difficulty she has when speaking English. Instead of helping my mother improve her English I become impatient and tell her “ mom forget it, you’re not pronouncing it right” and begin speaking to her in Spanish. Holding back from speaking English with my mother will not help her progress from her “broken” English and it is selfish of me to do so. I want my mother to be able to progress so she can be able to defend
We all grow up surrounded by different forms of English speaking, which is due to the atmosphere we are raised in. As denoted in the narrative Amy Tan says “But I do think that the language spoken in family, especially in immigrant families which is more insular, plays a large role in shaping the language of the child”. (FYR: 87) Coming from an immigrant family myself I can concur with the opinion of Amy Tan. My mother like that of Amy Tan speaks “broken” English and I too am so accustomed to it, I have no trouble understanding her. However, all do not understand my mother’s language since it’s not the “proper” fluent English many people are familiar with. My mother is at disadvantage to obtain equal opportunities and services due to the language barrier society impose.
My relationship with my mother at home perhaps adds to the difficulty she has when speaking English. Instead of helping my mother improve her English I become impatient and tell her “ mom forget it, you’re not pronouncing it right” and begin speaking to her in Spanish. Holding back from speaking English with my mother will not help her progress from her “broken” English and it is selfish of me to do so. I want my mother to be able to progress so she can be able to defend