Slang Is Part of Our Culture

1) According to Walt Whitman, slag is particularly American since the population of America is so diverse.  Slang can originate from a mix of words in different languages.  For example, spanglish is not a real language but is frequently used, so it is slang.  This is even more true today, since social media has created another, even shorter, language.  Slang is literally slang for "shortened language."

2) The first paragraph lays the foundation for the rest of the essay sinceWhitman discusses the different things that creat a language.  Languages are formed out of necessity and constantly adapt with the times.  Often, languages have roots in other dialects; for example, the romance languages derive from Latin.  Since there are no boundaries to say what is right and wrong when speaking, new languages are formed.  Slang is an example of a new language, except it is influenced by several languages instead of just one.

3) In paragraph two, Whitman defines his concept of slang.  He describes it as "lawless," meaning that it is not used in formal situations and has no rules, guidelines, or boundaries.  Modern day slang does not follow the actual definitions of the word, such as "lit," so it is lawless.  He also states that it is "below all words and sentences," showing that words and sentences are over, or divided, to form slang.  Words and sentences are broken down to the simplified form we call slang.  In modern language words are shorted to allow the speaker to make their point quicker, such as telephone shortened to phone, and television to TV.  Whitman uses the words "perennial rankness" to show that the frequency of the use of slang makes it one of the highest used languages.  It is able to maintain this rank by constantly adapting to the world, such as modern day terms used on the internet, like "omg" and "idk."

4) The first metaphor in paragraph two is, "like one of Shakespeare's clowns."  This is related to slang since slang seems wrong and comedic to the upper class, but is actually a witty for of speaking that is used to outdo people of a higher rank.  The second metaphor is about the "fermentation and eructation" of language.  This relates to slang since language is used flippantly and made up on the spot in order to suit one's needs, but few words actually stick and last.  The first metaphor is more effective than the second since the second one is overly complicated and the reaction to slang is lost due to having to think deeply about what the metaphor is saying.

5) Whitman simplifies paragraph three by using examples of slang and direct language rather than overly complex metaphors.

6) Whitman is able to relate slang to mythology by showing the connections during the development of both.  Words are created on the spot in order to describe and form physical things and are used to open doors to the mind.  These new words are created for the purpose of sharing information and telling stories, like mythology.

7)  In paragraphs six through ten, Whitman uses evidence to prove one main point with several sub-points.  His main point is that slang has been used throughout history through nicknames.  He uses examples such as names, titles, descriptions, food, and locations that are all referred to by nicknames.  These points help support his main argument.

8) In paragraph eleven, Whitman is very sarcastic in his opinion of American humorists.  I believe that this helps strengthen his essay since he is observing what other people think, rather than ranting about his own personal views on slang.

9) The tone of this essay informative and full of awe.  In the last paragraph, Whitman uses the metaphor of the english language being like layers of rock.  Like the layers of rock the roots of the english language go deep and each new form of language builds upon the layers below it.  This is where Whitman gives the reader the visual of the true depth of the english language and all that supports it, which reveals his sense of awe in regards to the extensive and unique diction used in the english language.  The metaphor of the layers helps the reader to feel the same way that Whitman does.

10)  The other writings of Walt Whitman agree with what he states within this essay.  His style is similar in the sense that it is profound but in a simplistic way.  In his poem, Mannahatta, he uses simple and common language to convey his message without seeming generic and common.  His writing is meaningful without being over complicated.  While he does leave room for deeper interpretation, he keeps things simple so that nothing is too hard to make sense of and allows one to think without becoming overwhelmed.

11) Whitman's definition of slang is still relatable to today's time.  While modern slang is much different than what Whitman experienced, his definition is timeless since slang is always present.  In today's society it is not uncommon to hear someone to describe something as "mad ___."  Mad literally means angry or agitated, but the land form means more along the lines of really.  "Mad funny" and "Mad loud" do not make any sense when the words are used properly, but since they are made up of slang, it means "really funny" and "really loud."

12) I do not agree with Tom Dalzell's take on modern slang.  Slang is not used to rebel or defy a larger power, it is simply shorthand communication.  Choices of young generations differ greatly from older generations and are often frowned upon by the elders.  However, when the older generations were young, their parents and elders most likely said similar things to them.  Slang has been used since the beginning of time.  The words "hip" and "groovy" are not used anymore, but they are still slang and have been replaced with new words like "lit" and "mad ___."  Slang is not a rebellious choice, it is just something that develops over time.  To me, slang is like a long term running joke that spreads not just through friends, but entire generations.  It is hard to describe the true meanings of slang words to people who do not understand.  Tom Dalzell acts as though his generation never used slang, and that modern generations and their independent decisions are something that should be regulated and stopped.  He makes it sound as though young people need to experience the world through a filter of proper language.  His take on slang has no facts to back up what he is saying and he sounds like a cranky old man who is scared of change that he is not willing to understand.

A Different Type of English

     People who speak english as a second language are often described as speaking "broken" or "incorrect" english.  While neither word is good to use, broken is very negative to use when describing how someone speaks.  Saying that they are broken means that there is something that needs to be fixed, when in reality they only have difficulty expressing their complete thoughts.  What they are thinking is not wrong or broken; the way that they are voicing these thoughts are just different from what is "normal."  People who speak another language are expected to speak with no accent in perfect english when primarily english speakers do not speak correctly themselves.  Slang is used so frequently that people often forget the true meaning of the word, if the word is real at all.  People who speak another language may have profound thoughts, but the fear of being judged as well as the language barrier can cause them to fumble their words and not be taken seriously.
     No matter what language one speaks, there is a difference between our inner and outer emotions and dialogue.  Some people have strong and passionate feelings on the inside but do not enjoy speaking out or have difficulty doing so.  This difficulty can come from fear of public speaking, and when english is one's first language, no one looks down upon them for fumbling words or incomplete thoughts and sentences.  However, if the fumble is due to a language barrier, people immediately lose interest or become annoyed.  The mockery of people with language barriers inhibit people from voicing a true opinion and from being taken seriously.  These people learn the consequences if they make a mistake or speak with too heavy of an accent, so often times they speak through another person who will be able to "fix" their english, if they even speak out at all.
     There are many varieties of english; such as slang, proper language, sarcasm, and jokes between families and friends.  Each person has their own personal language that can influence others despite it being different.  Different ways of saying things can open doors to new ways of thinking.  One person's word choice may provide a different meaning than someone saying something similar.  People of other cultures also have words that do not translate into something direct, but it translates into a feeling or an action.  This makes it even harder for people to learn english and have to describe something that they normally have a word for.  English slang is similar since most of the time it cannot be translated.  For example, the word "lit" means something different than the slang version, which cannot really be defined.  Often times when people are asked what it means, they just give examples of things that are "lit" rather than actually being able to define it.  It is acceptable to not e able to fully define what one is saying if they speak english, but once someone who is fluent in another language can not define the translation, people become annoyed.  Often times we get so caught up in slang that we forget the real meaning of our words, or even overcomplicate to an extreme.
     Amy Tan, a Chinese author, discuses the struggles of the language barrier that her mother faces in "Mother Tongue".  She used to write overcomplecated sentences that her mother was not able to understand, and her mother could only speak in english in simple or incomplete sentences that fit together like puzzle pieces.  Through these experiences, Tan was able to realize that the most effective way to write in order to inform is by writing easy to read sentences.  Tan decided that while she was writing she would imagine that she was going to have her mother read it, which allowed her the opportunity to write relatable and easy to understand essays and books.  I believe that the title can refer to two things.  "Mother Tongue" can refer to someones native language, but it could also refer to  her mother's way of speaking in english.
     Language barriers are very difficult to overcome, but people who do not speak english as their primary language should not be ridiculed when making mistakes or speaking in an unusual manner.  It is socially acceptable to speak incorrectly as an english speaker, but once someone does the same but with an accent, they are looked down upon and not treated with respect.  Amy Tan voices this and provides personal examples of how she has witnessed her mother's struggle with speaking english.

The Importance of a Name

     Since Americans do not feel that they need to learn about other cultures, they often pronounce things incorrectly, if they even try at all, and will not put in the effort to educate themselves on different dialects.  They take the names of people of color and turn them into mockeries and swears, believing that their way is superior.  People of color are expected to perfect American pronunciation, but Americans are not held to the same standard to put in as much respect for other cultures.
     A name is a unique title that means something to each person and their culture.  Names make up who we are.  Everything that we say or do is under our name, but some people are forced to change their title as a means of survival, which takes away a piece of them.  Changed names can make the person or even their  family feel as though they are rejecting their culture.  However, people of color are forced to change their name because if they do not, they are often times rejected when applying for jobs.  Either way they are not truly happy since if they change their name they are taking away something special to them, but if they do not, they are to respected and cannot find jobs since they are assumed to me immigrants.
     Among the many challenges people of color face is the mockery of their names.  Generic and simple one-syllable American names are considered ideal, and anything different is rejected.  People of color are expected to change their names in order to fit in.  Americans force them to change their beautiful names with unique meanings to something average and easy to pronounce.  Americans are scared to look stupid and are insecure of their own culture that functions on sterotypes.  They want to keep the superiority that they consider their birthright, bringing down other cultures in the process.
If people of color do change their names, Americans begin to assume that it is their "real name," which often subjects them to hearing derogatory terms about their culture.  They hear their names warped into profanity.  Either the name itself is spit out as a swear, or it is changed to be a swear.  For example, the author of the essay titled "The F-Word," Firoozeh Dumas tells the reader that her name was changed changed to "dumbass" in order to mock her.  The title of the essay itself is in regards to her first name being taken as a swear.  It was seen as something wrong that should not be said in its entirety.
     Not being willing to learn a person of color's name is a form of racism.  Very few people are willing to learn about the meaning and pronunciation of people of colors' names.  However, as more people are making the effort to end this disrespect, there may come a day that the names of people of color will be treated with the same amount of respect as American names.  With the growing awareness on the acceptance of people of color, there is more of a chance for the names of people of color to be accepted in American society.

The Power of Positive Thinking

Emotions often dictate the manner in which a person conducts themselves.  Through the influence of those around me, I believe in the power of positive thinking.  Optimistic thoughts lead to positive results, and in turn cynical thoughts lead to negative consequences.  Having an open mind can boost one’s confidence and give a person the strength to pursue further ambitions.  Intrusive thoughts lead to worst case scenario thinking, resulting in hesitation or even giving up.  My teachers have taught me this valuable lesson of the power of being optimistic over the years, which has a strong affect on me today.

            My favorite teacher from my middle school once told my class that positive thoughts will lead to positive results.  For class, we had to write a short essay.  I do not remember what it was on, but I do recall her telling me that if I am confident with what I am saying and if my information is accurate I could not go wrong.  People will not always agree with what you are saying, but if you give evidence as to why you believe something to be true, you will have a strong argument with powerful statements.  Despite being confused at the time, my teacher showed me that positive thinking and self-confidence will have a stronger impact on the reader.  However, if negative thoughts begin to infiltrate one’s thoughts, lack of confidence can lead to mistakes.  This year I have had a problem with second guessing myself.  I will walk into a test thinking that I am going to preform poorly, and as a result I second-guess myself.  I will have a correct answer and change it to the wrong one because I am lacking the positive thoughts I need to preform well.  Teachers have asked me why I second guess myself, and all I can say is I am not sure when in reality I know.  I did not go in with a positive thought process which then affected the quality of my work.  Positive thinking has the power to affect our performance level.

            My teachers throughout middle school and high school have shown me that there is power in positive thinking.  Through their encouraging words and enthusiastic motivation, I have learned that having an optimistic mindset can have a positive impact on one’s actions.  I remembered my middle school teacher telling me this but not fully understanding what she meant.  After all this time, this memory has come back to me each time I have doubted myself, especially this year.  I used to hear it often but now it has a direct affect on me, which has allowed me to open my eyes to the true meaning of optimism.  This does not mean that I do not doubt myself now that I am aware of the power of positivity.  However, now I know that in order to do well, I cannot simply give up and throw in the towel.  With this newly understood knowledge, I hope that in the future I will gain the faith in myself to increase my amount of positive thinking.  As of right now I am still very cynical in regards to myself, but I know that the power of positive thinking will have a helpful long-term affect on my abilities.

            When one person is positive and shares that emotion with others and influences them, a cycle forms in which the power of positivity is passed along.  We can all learn just as I did that optimism is the most beneficial form of self-improvement.  I believe that the power of positive thinking can affect everyone.    

Home is Peace

     Home can have different meaning to different people depending on their personal experiences.  To me, home is where I am welcomed, accepted, and taken care of.  My version of home is not always a particular place, but is usually with certain people such as my family and close friends.  I am usually a very tense person, so when I feel safe is when I feel at home.  That is normally with a variety of people and not at a specific place.  I often joke that my second home is school, but in a way it is true because that is where my closest friends are.  My physical house can also be home, as well as the houses of my friends and other places.  To me, home means peace, and I find peace with those who love me.
     Being with supportive and loving friends and family is home.  One day I was at my friend's house with a couple of my other friends and we just sat in their room and talk about everything.  I do not remember exactly what was said, but I remember feeling warm, safe, and happy.  We laughed so hard we cried, and within the span of 30 minutes we talked about actual meaningful life situations.  When I think of home I think of this time.  Laughing, playing games, and living life with my closest friends is truly home to me.  We may be goofy at times but I know that when I fall they have my back.  This support system is home.

     Home can come to us in the most unexpected of ways.  When I met my friends I had no idea how close I wold become to them and how much they would mean to me.  I found home within these people, but prior to meeting them I had no idea what I was missing.  Before meeting these wonderful friends whom I love, I forced myself assimilate into a group of people I was not like.  I forced myself to be like everyone else, whereas with my true friends I am able to accept myself and be more confident with who I am.
     We may not always go into a place looking for a home, but it can be found in people who genuinely care.  Finding a home is not the same as looking for a house.  A home is built up through positive relationships with people and finding comforting places.  Buying a home is based on appearance and functionality, where as a home is something one creates themselves.  Such as a comforting and safe space and also those feelings with certain people.
     Homeless people may not have a place to live, but that does not mean that they do not have a home.  They may find home with people who care about them and who understand them.  Others may not even feel safe in their actual house so their home is where people care of them. I believe that it is the same way for most people.  Home is not always a physical place although it can be, but it is often with specific people.  Home is a safe and welcoming community of those closest to one self.