IndexLanguage and identityThe power of communicationUnderstanding and acceptanceConclusionLanguage is a powerful tool that shapes our identities, influences our interactions and reflects our cultural background. In her essay “Mother Tongue,” Amy Tan explores the complexities of language and the impact it has on our lives. Through anecdotes and personal observations, Tan conveys the message that mastery of language, particularly one's native language, influences one's self-perception and ability to communicate effectively. The main theme of this essay, "Mother Tongue", suggests that language is not only a means of communication, but also a reflection of our identities and the key to understanding each other. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Language and Identity Throughout the essay, Tan emphasizes the importance of language in shaping one's identity. She recounts instances in which her mother's limited English proficiency led to misunderstandings and assumptions about her intelligence. Tan writes, "I am a writer. And by that definition, I am someone who has always loved language. I am fascinated by language in everyday life" (Tan). This statement highlights the importance of language in Tan's life and the impact it had on her writing career. Using her mother's broken English as a starting point, Tan examines the connection between language and identity, suggesting that our command of language plays a crucial role in how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us. Tan's experiences with her mother's limited English proficiency also shed light on the stereotypes and prejudices that individuals with non-standard English dialects often face. She recalls instances where her mother was treated with disrespect or fired because of her accent or grammatical errors. Tan argues that society often assigns value and intelligence based on one's linguistic competence, reinforcing the idea that language is not simply a tool of communication, but also an indicator of social status and cultural identity. The Power of Communication Another important theme in "Mother Tongue" is the power of communication. Tan highlights the challenges faced by people with limited English proficiency, both in expressing themselves and understanding others. She notes that her mother's difficulty communicating effectively hindered her ability to accurately convey her thoughts and emotions. Tan writes: "His language, as I hear it, is vivid, direct, full of observation and imagery. This was the language that helped shape the way I saw things, expressed things, made sense of world" (Tan). This quote highlights the importance of language in shaping our perception and understanding of the world. Tan argues that language is not only a means of conveying information, but also a tool for building relationships and connecting with others. She describes times when her mother's limited English became an obstacle in her interactions with doctors, customer service representatives, and other authority figures. These meetings highlight the importance of effective communication in addressing various social contexts and the potential consequences of language barriers. Understanding and Acceptance The theme of understanding and acceptance is also prevalent in Tan's essay. She reflects on her own journey to embrace and appreciate her mother's unique linguistic style, despite society's tendency to reject or devalue non-standard English dialects. Tan writes: "I think the English of mine. 14-20.