Gloria Anzaldua’s article “How to Tame a Wild Tongue” focuses on the cultural differences between American and Mexican culture. It also examines how immigrants slip between the cracks. She explores these topics, as well as discussing cultural domination and low self esteem. She wants to show the audience that learning another language shouldn’t be a cause for shame. This piece also explores the theme of Acculturation. It is where she explains that immigrant should have the ability to create their own identity. Anzaldua believes that Americans must accept their heritage.
Anzaldua began her essay by comparing Anzaldua’s accent and the way that she speaks. Anzaldua mentions her dental visit where she was told that Anzaldua has a very stubborn and stubborn tongue and needs to be controlled. The doctor’s words seem to frustrate her and she starts to think of ways to manage a wild mouth. However, the dentist does not mention her accent and doesn’t intend to. But, her reaction to him says it all. She then begins to think of ways to control a wild tongue. Anzaldua’s anecdotes appeal to the emotions of people, helping them understand how this oppression can be emotionally devastating. Anzaldua 39. She feels like she doesn’t have the ability to accept her language as legitimate until she does. She simply wants her audience respect Chicano Spanish, and to feel comfortable with their own culture and language. She doesn’t want to be ashamed of being alive.
Anzaldua states that Spanish speakers feel reprimanded when they speak Spanish. However, many Spanish speakers also accuse Spanish speakers of “speaking an oppressor’s dialect” when they speak English. She discusses how she felt under pressure from both sides. Anzaldua goes on to explain the criticisms she received when she used Chicano Spanish, a bilingual tongue that has “naturally” developed. Many Latinos and Latinas regard Chicano Spanish as “a mutilation” of Spanish (35).
“How to Tame a Wild Tongue”, overall, has provided me with a lot more insight into a world of suffering than I would have if I hadn’t read Anzaldua first-hand accounts. She relates her Chicano experience and the hardships she had to endure over the years. Language is key in identity building. It is a way to communicate and interact with others and helps create unity. There are many languages in the world. Each person must learn to appreciate each other’s language. It is crucial that people learn how to get along with one another. Multiculturalism can be a boon for any nation. The author dealt effectively with the themes of racism.
