English is the universal language for most of the world. The proper use of English varies between different regions and cultures.
Take the words “color” and “colour” for example. Any American will agree that “color” is the correct spelling for the word. However, if you went to Europe, the locals would agree that “colour” is the correct spelling.
Proper usage of the English language is subjective.
Throughout Jamila Lysicott’s speech, she places emphasis on the different ways she utilizes the English language. Lysicott frequently swaps between a Caribbean, a professional, and a relaxed “street talk” to convey her main idea- Who controls articulation? She furthers her argument about articulation, saying that even “articulate” Americans sound foolish to the British.
Lysicott’s reference to her Caribbean roots helped me connect with her throughout her speech. Coming from a Trinidadian background, her use of “broken” English resonated with me because I can relate to her experience. Although I was born in America and speak fluent English, my parents speak “broken” English. Despite their education, extensive vocabulary, and ability to put together well-formulated sentences, my parents still struggle with communicating with people who speak “articulate” English. Many times, we have been in a public setting and a waiter at a restaurant or an associate at a clothing store would give us a hard time just because of my parents’ accent. Due to my upbringing in a Caribbean household, their words are very easy for me to understand, but due to cultural differences, it is not the same for pure Americans.
Even though I speak English that Americans would deem “fluent”, the locals of Trinidad have the same view towards me. Trinidad remained under British rule until around the 1970s, so they speak a form of European English. When I speak, people automatically refer to me as being a “Yankee” (someone who is from the US). Although I’m deemed “articulate” by Americans, local Trinidadians have a hard time understanding what I am saying because I have a “Yankee accent”.
I personally believe that there is no right way to use the English language. As long as you express yourself in a way that your target audience can understand, you are using the language properly.
Nice consideration of the issue. I really liked that you said Lysicott’s main point is about who controls articulation. That’s at the heart of how people treat each other — there’s a saying that the winners write history. Same thing with language. I suspect Amy Tan’s piece about her mother will resonate with you, too.