In James Baldwin's essay, he claims that language is a "crucial key to identity". But, after our discussion in class, I was wondering if his statement holds validity. One of the topics that was brought up was when black people are caught "talking white". If a black person is speaking using proper grammar and what people would perceive as "white" language, then wouldn't the subject of language be pushed aside when describing someone's identity?
In addition, he claims that language explains a person's self-esteem. I believe there are far greater things that affect someones self-esteem. Baldwin takes a bit of a reach in saying that language plays a "crucial" role in describing it.
Let me know what you think.
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ReplyDeleteI have to disagree with you Sarah, I believe language is crucial when it comes to self-esteem and describing one's identity. As written in the prompt "language IS the key," you can tell alot about a person by how they speak. People tend to judge others by how well spoken they are. Speach is greatly associated with intelligence in america.If I were to apply for a job and show up to my interview speaking slang I am almost positve that I would not get the job. Not necessarily because im am unintelligent, but because the way I spoke perceived me to be not as intelligent as, per say, a person who interviewed and articulated his words correctly and spoke fluently.Language has to deal alot with identity.
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