Those of us who move back and forth in between two worlds can relate to this.
Every time we pick a language to speak or write (E or V in my case), we subscribe to a whole new context e.g. away from tutoyer to address someone as big bro, younger sis as practiced in the Vietnamese culture. Edward Hall distinguishes between E2 and E3 (E2 for crossing between two similar cultures e.g. French and English). East and West crossing would be an E3. Recent Post article by Richard Cohen addressed the informality in our language ( I love you man). Early in the 19th century, people hardly traveled outside their continent. WWII unintended consequences were the closing of that distance.
Graham Greene and Murukami are on the opposite end of the East-West spectrum.
They brought us keen observation because they were looking at it from the outside.
Hemingway wrote well when in Paris during the 50’s.
A bunch of Hollywood actors also flocked to Paris.
The bi-lingual mind never feels bored. It has access to two strands of thoughts, two treasure chests to draw from.
More choices and challenges.
All the richer.
One cannot approach bilingualism from a pure political stand point.
Instead, it should be recognized and rewarded (some Multi-National Corporations churn out bonuses for multi-lingual staff for riding both horses at the same time).
America has been blessed with global citizenry. They came, conquered and created a country.
They invent Brand America, as they reinvent themselves. Endless possibilities, boundless opportunities.
Bi-lingual talent is a terrible thing to waste .
They are our national assets. Twice the contribution, twice the richer. Europe has enjoyed the gifts of multi-lingualism for years. It’s America’s turn to embrace it.
Thang Nguyen 555 