McWhorter, J. (2016). Talking back, talking black: Truths about America's Lingua Franca. Bellevue Literary Press.
The Tale of Two Worlds has become a growing trend in America, where many individuals feel they live in alternate realities or dual lives. This concept is similar to wearing "the mask," as described by Paul Laurence Dunbar, or experiencing double consciousness, as discussed by Du Bois. Black Americans, in particular, often feel as if they live in two worlds, where they must code-switch between their community's language and Standard English, which is privileged in society. John McWhorter's book, "Talking Back, Talking Black," explores the linguistic and cultural significance of Black English in America and challenges negative stereotypes about it.
McWhorter establishes the origins of Black English in the unique experiences and perspectives of African Americans, tracing its roots back to the forced migration of enslaved Africans to the United States and the development of Creole languages in the Caribbean and the American South. He argues that Black English represents a distinct linguistic and cultural heritage that has been shaped by cultural exchange. McWhorter acknowledges the cultural significance of Black English but emphasizes the importance of code-switching between different dialects in different contexts to improve one's chances of being hired, as Black English is not a widely recognized dialect.
One of the book's strong suits is McWhorter's in-depth analysis of the dialect's linguistic complexity. He highlights distinctive features of Black English, such as phonological and grammatical features, which reflect complex linguistic systems that have developed over time in response to African Americans' social and cultural experiences. McWhorter demonstrates how particular words are used in context through voice inflection and interchangeable words, highlighting the poetic qualities of Black English. He also challenges common stereotypes and misconceptions about Black English, arguing that it is a fully-formed and complex language system with its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. McWhorter offers a compelling case for the value and legitimacy of Black English as a distinct dialect worthy of appreciation and respect.
However, McWhorter's belief that there should not be a standard language falls short. Every society needs a standard language, and in America, it is Standard English. Many immigrant groups have adopted Eurocentric values, such as speaking standard English. McWhorter does not oppose Eurocentric values but emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting Black English for its unique cultural and linguistic features while acknowledging the dialect's colloquial uniqueness in its rhythmic cadence, euphemisms, and metaphorical groupings.
Actually, he masterfully addressed the issue of racism in this text. Many readers might assume that the rejection of Black English by white Americans is rooted in the belief that it is an improper way of speaking, that it violates rules of grammar, and is indicative of ignorance, bigotry, and a lack of education or intelligence among Black people. However, McWhorter's nuanced and sophisticated approach highlights the bidialectal fluency of many Black Americans, which challenges these stereotypes and provides evidence that Black English is a legitimate and necessary form of communication with its own rules and structures.
In conclusion, McWhorter's book offers a compelling analysis of the linguistic and cultural significance of Black English, challenging negative stereotypes and misconceptions about it. The concept of living in two worlds or navigating multiple identities is a common experience for many Black Americans, and McWhorter's work adds an important perspective to ongoing discussions of language and identity in America.
About the author: Tremaine Love is a doctoral student in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Curriculum Leadership and a CISLL affiliate.
