Other Languages

I trust everyone knows at this point that I’m in no sense a nationalist or a Limbaugh guy. But I think there are simple and rational reasons that someone would favor — without introducing a government program on its behalf, of course — English as the more or less official language. The fact is, if I need directions, I’d like to be able to know that somebody I ask is likely to be able to understand me and to communicate with me. When I call the doctor’s office, I’d like the person on the phone to be able to understand what I’m saying without my having to explain myself three times, only to be passed off to another receptionist anyway. If I need to return something and the explanation is a little involved, I don’t relish a 30-minute ordeal involving charades. These are normal, non-hateful, non-nationalistic sentiments, I think.

Incidentally, when I have been in Spain I have absolutely refused to speak English on the streets with my friends who know Spanish. I consider it an act of discourtesy — rather like a self-centered visitor in my home refusing to abide by the relatively simple rules I expect guests to observe. If I were in an English-speaking region of a non-English-speaking country, that would be one thing — as it is with Germans speaking German in America.

Could you really imagine moving to France and resolutely refusing to learn French, expecting everyone to cater to you? Yes, yes, I’m all for keeping one’s native tongue, but since when is life all about me? Can’t I show respect for my fellow human beings, and indicate that I realize my ability to communicate with them and their ability to communicate with me is something important?

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12:49 pm on May 24, 2006