Hari's Corner

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Being bi-lingual has its advantages

Filed under: Life and Leisure by Hari
Posted on Wed, Aug 11, 2010 at 10:05 IST (last updated: Wed, Aug 11, 2010 @ 10:05 IST)

Regular readers might have noticed that I've started posting a few articles in my mother tongue - Tamil. It's surprising how the human mind can start afresh when you start thinking and writing in a different language from what you normally use. I'd been running dry of ideas and inspiration to update this blog in recent times, but by switching languages I've actually got back the urge to write something.

For the most part, the effort of switching languages in the mind is unconscious, but when you do notice it, you begin to realize the amazing sophistication and complexity of the brain.

Apart from everything else, I think creativity can be boosted if you think in more than one language. Ideas come out differently in different languages and I don't think that is actually a limitation - it actually allows you to explore the same topic from a totally new angle which a mono-linguist might not be able to appreciate. I feel blessed that I am in a position to do this. I also believe that by improving my vocabulary in both English and Tamil, I can only improve my creativity and expression. It has also sort of inspired me to learn a third language.

I don't think all languages are created equal though. Some languages are inherently superior in certain areas of human knowledge. This is a reflection of the particular community and culture that drives and sustains the language and its usage.

I still feel that two languages are not enough and I don't want to make a big deal of it. Learning a third language will definitely benefit me further. I've been thinking of this for some time, but until recently I've not had a really strong urge to take it forward. Maybe I should find a bit of free time to attend German classes. :biggrin:

2 comment(s)

  1. Being quad-lingual is even better. Gindhi, Tamil, Englees and Jarman pulavar :P

    Comment by Ramshankar (visitor) on Tue, Aug 24, 2010 @ 22:26 IST #
  2. What Gindhi do you know? :-/

    Comment by Hari (blog owner) on Wed, Aug 25, 2010 @ 12:15 IST #

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