How to Tame a Wild Tongue

.     The overall message is being true to yourself and your background. Anzaldua is a woman who is proud of her upbringing and the language she was raised speaking. The opening scene of Anzaldua in the dentist’s chair connects to the overall message by portraying her tongue as “strong” and “stubborn” much like herself. She is opinionated about her beliefs to speak whatever language she is comfortable with; without the worry of being judged or frowned upon but others in her community.

.     The purpose of Anzaldua’s use of Spanish through out the story is to truly show case her individuality through her language. She points out that she would “rather speak Spanglish”. In other words, by using both English and Spanish she is identifying herself to the reader.

.     I believe Academic English can also be defined as Standard Spanish. They are both the proper forms of the language. However, I do not believe Chicano Spanish should be described as nonstandard. Languages should be titled Standard if majority of people speak it in that region. For example, if in Philadelphia majority speak Chicano Spanish then I believe that should be the Standard Spanish for that area.  I believe this because if over hears a conversation of two people speaking the general “Standard Spanish” then one can assume that language is their background, or “identity”, which could not be the case.

.     On the other hand, speaking and writing in a standard language can be beneficial to outside readers. Furthermore, writing an essay in proper English for someone who is not from the area could make it easier for the reader to understand. I believe having a standard language can be necessary.

.     The various types of English that I know include Northeast Philadelphia slang, non-standard English and Standard English.

.     I do not use a secret language to talk to my friends, however, I talk less proper around them versus my language towards an adult.

.     When speaking with my friends and mother I use nonstandard English. Although, when speaking to my Professors I tend to speak in Standard English.

.     Language is a form of identity. It was taught to us at a young age and is a part of us. “I am my language” suggests that the language we first learned and know the best describes a part of who we are.

.     When the dentist proclaims “We’re going to have to do something about your tongue” is a metaphor towards Anzaldua’s childhood. She was consistently told to learn “Standard English” and criticized by her Spanish Language choice and accent. The dentist is portraying everyone who criticized her language in the past. “I’ve never seen anything as strong or as stubborn” is also being referenced in the conclusion. “Strong” and “Stubborn” relate to Anzaldua and her determination to express her identity through her language.

.     Yes, the language you speak can be a part of your identity. It shows your personal background. Whether it be the language you grew up speaking or one you learned when you were older that just happen to prefer. This shows something you like something you enjoy which are part of the numerous things that identify you.

.     Identity is very important to me. My individuality makes me who I am today. It gives me a place in a world full of millions of people. Anzaldua states, “When other races have given up their tongue, we kept ours.” This shows that she is proud of not only herself but also her race as a whole for keeping not one version of her language but multiples. Making this statement shows how important identity is to her.