Being American Chinese has always been a huge part of my identity. So it was with some confusion that I entered China and found myself… solely American. But not unequivocally. Because I don’t look American. But neither am I Chinese especially with my lack of Chinese language. So in the end, I’m just… American. But always with an explanation. …
Category Archives: Language
Why I’m Learning Chinese
Final exams are quickly approaching, and with my recent 2-week hiatus from class (spent instead with family for Christmas and New Year’s!), my motivation to study is just about non-existent. So since I’ve been procrastinating all day long on studying, I might as well procrastinate by completing this list (which I began 3 months ago) to remind myself …
Muggles!
I emitted a very excited squeak (in a public place with a crowd) when I saw the 4th entry listed below in my KTdict Chinese-English iPhone dictionary. 我是麻瓜。 Or is it 我是一个麻瓜。? I’m trying to say “I am a muggle.” I’d like to be able to say: I am a muggle, but I’d rather be a wizard. Unfortunately, my Chinese is far too elementary. …
California = G.I. Joe, or, On Learning Chinese
There are definite advantages to learning Chinese in an English setting. Sure, you won’t get the pressure of full immersion, but for getting the basics, I do like starting in a less intense environment. When catering to an English speaking crowd, the professor can pull examples from familiar territory to help you learn the four Chinese tones. …
On Being American
It’s odd to realize that I’m not an American until I open my mouth. Even then, to some people, the accent still isn’t enough to classify me as such. To be “American” is still embedded in being white. You may protest here. I would protest myself in other circumstances. But at the reactive gut level for many people, …
Fern Speak.
In other words, what a few packed days and poor-sleep nights produce. This is a sampling of what I said over the course of our lunch stop: So today I’m more…Words failing oh waitYeah, that is– I’m done. Well, I think it’s justOr maybe– ngaaaaagh!! I’m done. I’ve been recently being – *giggle!*It’s just not working. May Scott be blessed by a babel …