The Importance of Language and Identity in The Works of Amy Tan

Amy Tan’s “Mother Tongue” is a powerful piece that explores the difficulties of communication and the relationship between language and identity. Tan’s essay highlights the various ways in which language intersects with our experiences as individuals and members of society. She shows how our language use shapes our relationships, our ability to navigate different social contexts, and ultimately our sense of self. This essay will examine the key themes and issues addressed in “Mother Tongue,” exploring the ways in which Tan uses language to convey her message.

One of the central arguments made in “Mother Tongue” is that language is a powerful tool that can be used to shape our sense of self and our relationships with others. Tan highlights the limitations of language, showing how it can affect the way we communicate with others and how we are perceived by them. For instance, she recalls the various occasions when her mother was misunderstood because of her limited English skills, which led to embarrassment and frustration. Tan notes that “I think my mother’s English almost had an effect on limiting my possibilities in life as well” (Tan 20-21). This passage illustrates how the limitations of language can impact individuals not only in terms of communication, but also their sense of self-worth and opportunities to succeed.

Moreover, Tan also explores the ways in which language plays a role in cultural identity. She notes that the language we speak can often be linked to our cultural and experiences, and that this can contribute to feelings of alienation and isolation. For instance, she talks about how her experience of growing up bilingual made her feel like she was “caught between two worlds,” and how this led to a sense of disconnection from both her Chinese and American heritage (Tan 18). This passage highlights how language can become a source of identity politics, where individuals can be judged based on their language use or accent.

Language use and presentation can also become a powerful tool for social stratification. Tan notes that when her mother went to the hospital, she was often met with prejudice and discrimination because of her heavy Chinese accent. This is a powerful example of how linguistic biases can impact an individual's life and their access to resources. Tan writes, “I think my mother’s English almost had an effect on limiting my possibilities in life as well” (Tan 20). This suggests that individuals from marginalized communities can be limited in their choices and opportunities because of linguistic biases, and that language can become a tool for exclusion and discrimination.

The use of personal experiences in Tan’s essay demonstrates the potency of language and its impact on our sense of identity, experiences, and access to resources. Tan’s story of her mother highlights the importance of inclusivity, understanding and appreciation of varying forms of language usage, particularly among minorities in the US. The passage that discussed the author's experiences of being caught between the Chinese and American worlds furthers this point, highlighting that language is personal and linked to people’s cultural identities.

In conclusion, “Mother Tongue” is a powerful exploration of the role of language in shaping our experiences and identities. Tan’s work is a call for an inclusive society and awareness of the various ways in which language shapes our interaction with the world and others. Language is not only a tool we use to communicate but also a powerful means through which our identities are constructed and negotiated, and the experiences we encounter. Therefore, we need to appreciate different linguistic expressions and the unique cultural data that can be derived from a specific language. Overall, through Tan’s story, it is apparent that understanding and respecting different language use will only make the society better and more inclusive.