The Significance of Different “Englishes” in Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue”

 

The Significance of Different “Englishes” in Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue”

In her essay “Mother Tongue,” Amy Tan vividly portrays the existence of multiple “Englishes” in her life. These different forms of English reflect the various ways in which she communicates with others, particularly her mother. Tan explores the significance of these language divisions and how they have influenced her identity as a writer. Through her personal experiences, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and valuing the diversity of English spoken by individuals.

One of the “Englishes” that Tan describes is the casual and informal English she uses when speaking to her mother. She explains, “I talk to her with my uncharacteristic bluntness, as if this were normal, as if she understood every word” (Tan). This form of English is shaped by their shared cultural background and their intimate relationship. It is a language that is simplified and adapted to accommodate her mother’s limited understanding of English. Tan recognizes the significance of this particular English because it enables her to establish a deeper connection with her mother.

Another “English” that Tan touches upon is the formal and professional language she uses in her writing. She mentions that she had to “switch to a more formal English” when communicating with doctors or people in authority (Tan). This type of English is necessary in certain contexts to convey professionalism and competence. However, Tan acknowledges that this form of English can create a divide between herself and others who are not familiar with it. She realizes that this division can lead to miscommunication or misunderstandings.

These divisions between different “Englishes” are important to Tan because they reflect the complexities and richness of her cultural heritage. She believes that language is not just a tool for communication but also an expression of one’s identity and background. Tan states, “Language is more than just words; it carries a cultural weight” (Tan). By recognizing and embracing the diverse “Englishes” she speaks, she is able to embrace her hybrid cultural identity fully.

The various “Englishes” have had a significant impact on Tan’s identity as a writer. They have allowed her to explore different perspectives and voices in her writing. Tan explains that her mother’s limited English has influenced her writing style, stating, “I wanted to capture what language ability tests can never reveal: her intent, her passion, her imagery, the rhythms of her speech and the nature of her thoughts” (Tan). By incorporating elements of the different “Englishes” she speaks, she has been able to create a unique and authentic voice in her writing.

In conclusion, the different “Englishes” that Amy Tan describes in “Mother Tongue” represent the diverse ways in which she communicates with others. These divisions are important to Tan because they reflect her cultural heritage and influence her identity as a writer. By embracing and valuing these multiple forms of English, Tan has been able to develop a distinct voice in her writing that captures the essence of her experiences and heritage. Through her essay, Tan encourages us to recognize and appreciate the richness that comes from the diversity of languages spoken by individuals.

Works Cited:

Tan, Amy. “Mother Tongue.” The Norton Reader: An Anthology of Nonfiction, edited by Linda H. Peterson et al., 15th ed., W.W. Norton & Company, 2016, pp. 45-50.