Language Barrier
I thought that since I had nothing new or exciting to update everyone on, I would instead write about a topic matter I rarely discuss — cultural issues. I have touched on these subjects in my blog before, but I mostly stick to more mundane topics like my current activities, etc. I am a self-centered individual, afterall! ha ha 😛 But this time, I thought I would change it up a bit discuss the difficulties of living in a country where you don’t speak the native language (since it’s the #1 question I am asked about). If you’re interested, read on~~
“Melody, how do you function in a country where the primary language isn’t English?” I ask myself this question sometimes. I think anyone can expect the typical difficulties it produces – the taxi driver looks at you like you’re sprouting a third head when you’re simply asking to go to the airport, you ordered a pizza with cheese and suddenly it turned into pizza with the works, the woman you’re about to ask directions from gives you the “please, not me!” puppy eyes, etc. These types of problems will always remain the same, unfortunately, the same can not be said for your patience. What is matter with that taxi driver? Is he dumb? There is only one major airport that is close by! Do I look like the person that would want the works?! Sardines, ew!! I am not asking you to draw me a labeled map, just take a second to try and point me in the right way (I’ve been walking in circles for hours!). This does not mean I turn into the “ugly American” and start expecting or demanding English, I just start questioning human intelligence….like somehow we should be able to bridge the gap together, despite the language barrier. But things are rarely that simple.
A language barrier is frustrating because it forces you to rely on others. Certainly this makes you more appreciative of the friends you have and their selfless assistance. Additionally, you gain a heightened sense of appreciation for the simple, kind gestures made by people. But at the same time these very kindnesses can also leave you feeling slightly jaded. Fore example, if you’re invited to a dinner gathering, then the conversation must be translated in order for you to fully understand — then you feel guilty, like you’re a bit of a nuisance or a hindrance to the guests. But what if noone translates? Then you’re just sitting there awkwardly out-of the-loop until someone takes the moment to quickly summarize what has been said in the last 30 minutes. You’d think you’d feel thankful to that person who translated, but oddly sometimes it is more annoying because the effort seems half-hearted. If noone had the time to talk to you during those last 30 minutes than why would you care to hear the 1 minute summarized version? But then you remember that you were specifically invited. How dare you feel annoyed when you should be feeling grateful?! What is the matter with you? As your over-taxed mind works this question, if you make the mistake of showing the least bit of a frown, you’re instantly asked if you’re alright or whether the food is to your taste – like the fact that continuous talk (that you’re unable to understand) couldn’t possibly be the reason behind the frown, or slightly bored expression. It may seem very small but if you dwell on it too much it will drive you absolutely crazy. I’ve found that gatherings are best if the group is small – so that translations can be interspersed with the native language; however, if not it is best to add your own mental dialogue to what people are saying. Not only is it entertaining – but it may also save your sanity! 😛
Well, that’s enough of that. Please don’t consider it complaining — people are always doing me favors. I recognize it and humbly thank them. I am just doing some musings. Hope that gave y’all some insight into the lang. barrier issue, for those who asked my opinion on it. CHOW FOR NOW
Mellow in South Korea 
Patti Adams said,
April 22, 2010 at 6:01 pm
Hi Mel, Wow! You made some interesting points about the frustration of being surrounded by people speaking their native language. It makes me appreciate the people here who are non- English speakers. The difference here, however, is that most of them live with or near people who do speak their language. I wish there was a way to bridge the gap between language barriers and cultural differences. Maybe you will come up with a really unique idea and then you can write a book and become rich and famous!! If so, remember I made the suggestion !!!! Take care. Love ya! Aunt Pat
dad said,
April 25, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Weird picture, Melody, but very interesting observations about being a non-native and non-speaker. It does cause me to appreciate others around me who are not native English speakers, and the frustration they must feel. I confess that my frustration level is easier to reach when I am traveling and unable to be understood, which is why I try to restrict my travel to english-speaking countries. UK, New Zealand, Canada, etc, are all ok because they at least speak a variety of english. When we were visiting you, albeit for only 2 weeks, I managed to adapt (though mostly it was because you were my instant translator/directional guide), but had we stayed longer I am not so sure what would have happened to my tolerance level. So, I’m proud of you, as usual, for being so capable in such a terribly difficult situation. Kudos! Talk to you soon. Love, DAD.
Leah said,
April 27, 2010 at 2:47 pm
Hi Mel.
Love the picture! I can only imagine how frustrated you must be by the language barrier. When I was in Italy, I couldn’t even guess what they were saying to me– unless it involved rude gestures and mad faces. Then, being proper Americans we would just laugh at them and move on!! Very poor etiquette- I must admit! Someone I was with spoke Spanish well, and the Italians could communicate with him for the most part, so we were sort of saved. I have no idea how you do it, I would be so upset to have to sit through dinner without opening my big mouth. I can totally understand your frustration at having to bridge the gap as best you can. Years ago, I tried speaking/teaching rudimentary English to an African Woman who was here as part of an arranged marriage- and I couldn’t stand it. I felt so sorry for her but it was very frustrating (and draining) to somehow try to find a common ground on which to proceed. Can you imagine?? She had an arranged marriage and only met her husband for a few days before she was put on a plane and sent from her home to marry an older man who she had no idea what kind of person he was!! Also, to be completely separated from society in your new “home” because of the inability to communicate?. Hang in there, it could be worse- it will get better, you will eventually get better at the language on your own and next year will be easier for you.