1. 1. The point Tan is making with the example of the mother in the hospital is that the because her mother didn’t have good English like most people, they thought that she was beneath them. A lot of people think that if you don’t speak properly, then you’re stupid and thus a waste of time. It shows how people judge each other based on language skills. When Amy Tan came in to speak to the doctor, there was a complete change in attitude. They were polite and assured her that everything would be fixed.
2. 2. It’s very similar to the situation at the hospital, just a bit more humorous. It shows how people think that the way you speak reflects your qualities as a person. So by having bad English, you aren’t intelligent and don’t have any self respect as you can’t be bothered to speak properly. The situation with the stockbroker also showed how the mother had the thought processes, but couldn’t articulate them.
3. 3. Language is influenced by both family and peers. You’re always around both your family and peers. Different people influence language in different ways. The way you pick up a language will depend on who you’re with as well as the situation at hand. The family builds the foundation of your language, while others build up of it.
4. 4. It shows how with language there’s a million possibilities and not just one answer. Despite the way you speak a language, it doesn’t show how good you are at that specific language. Language can be interpreted in many different ways.
5. 5. She envisions her mother as the reader of her novels because of the way her mother thinks and understands the language. Not only does her mother inspire her, but she will be honest with her opinions. Her mother understands the culture as well as the intention of the language.. The author is able to connect with the audience as she’s not trying to show off her English skills.
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