The central theme of the story centers around Richard’s struggle with language during his childhood. In his household, Spanish is spoken, providing a private connection for him and his family. However, as he becomes more skilled in English, speaking Spanish becomes increasingly difficult. This presents a problem because Spanish is the language that allows him to communicate with his parents and close relatives. There is a fear that fully embracing American culture will result in losing his private language. Eventually, Richard realizes that true intimacy does not depend on a specific language but rather on the bond between individuals. While becoming more open to English, he still values intimate moments at home. The story consistently portrays the cultural issue of exclusively speaking Spanish in Chicanx or Latinx households. Losing fluency in Spanish leaves Richard feeling betrayed and facing teasing and ridicule from family members who are disappointed by him forgetting their cultural language, intensifying his sense of disconnection. As Richard improves his English skills, he encounters difficulties in interpersonal situations due to lacking fluency in Spanish. The disapproval from his family negatively affects his confidence and makes it challenging for him to respond appropriately in various scenarios. Despite facing similar challenges and finding solace in small gestures and simple words, I can personally relate to Richard’s story.As a young child arriving in the US, I was unfamiliar with both Spanish and English. Growing up in a Spanish-speaking household allowed me to learn Spanish first, while attending school helped me quickly pick up English. This led to fluency in both languages. Unlike my peers, I didn’t take a Spanish class, which is something I regret now. However, my speaking, writing, and reading abilities in Spanish were better than those who did take the class. This remained true until junior year of high school when speaking Spanish became less necessary outside of home where I primarily spoke English.
My parents understood some things but for those they didn’t fully comprehend, I would say them in Spanish – creating a blend of both languages when communicating with them. Unfortunately, this has made it more challenging for me to speak Spanish now as I struggle to make the effort despite knowing its importance. However, unlike Richard though there has always been a strong connection felt between me and my family members whenever we converse due to our shared language.
Personally, I find Spanish to be a much more beautiful language than English. Just as Richard previously mentioned about the loss of true meaning when translating certain expressions from Spanish to English, I often find myself in a similar situation where I translate from Spanish for others who need help. However, during the process, I feel like the message is not effectively conveyed.Despite not being fluent in Spanish, I still manage to communicate with my relatives, even though I struggle with pronunciation and occasionally forget words. However, my Spanish skills are sufficient for casual conversations. Similar to Richard, I have also experienced teasing from my family members. Spanish remains my primary language and I will continue practicing it so as not to lose it. My intention is not to abandon one culture in favor of another. To conclude, Richard Rodriguez’s short story deeply resonates with many individuals because it portrays the challenges faced when navigating between two distinct cultures. Above all else, Richard shows that his cultural language will always endure through personal connections formed by small gestures. Despite understanding a new culture and feeling comfortable within it, he manages to retain his true identity.
