Cultural Memory of Language: Contemporary Applied Linguistics Volume 5

Susan Samata (Researcher at the Birkbeck College, London, Birkbeck College, University of London, UK)

ISBN 10: 1472583736 / ISBN 13: 9781472583734

Published by b10716, 2014

About this Item

Seller Inventory # 105

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Cultural Memory of Language: Contemporary Applied Linguistics Volume 5
• Publisher: b10716
• Publication Date: 2014
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1472583736
• ISBN 13: 9781472583734
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Brand New

About this title

Synopsis

"I can't even speak my own language," were the words overheard in a college staffroom that triggered the writing of this book. Calling something 'my own' implies a personal, proprietorial relationship with it. But how can it be your own if you cannot speak it?

The Cultural Memory of Language looks at unintended monolingualism - a lack of language fluency in a migratory cultural situation where two or more languages exist at 'home'. It explores family history and childhood language acquisition and attrition. What is the present everyday experience of language use and life between two cultures? Examining interview data, Samata uncovers a sense of inauthenticity felt by people who do not fully share a parent's first language. Alongside this features a sense of concurrent anger, and a need to assign blame. Participation in the language, even to the extent of phatic or formulaic phraseology, occasions feelings of authentic linguistic and cultural inclusion. The book thus uncovers appreciable (and measurable) benefits in positive self-image and a sense of well-being. Looking at how people view language is essential - how they view the language they call their own is even more important and this book does just that in a qualified applied linguistic environment.

About the Authors

Susan Samata is an Independent Researcher who has spent much of her career working with students who have escaped repressive regimes and conflicts.

Li Wei is Professor of Applied Linguistics at IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society, University College London, UK.