Kerrie Richardson makes two valid points in her chapter one blog. First, few Europeans, especially those from the southern countries, spoke English as of the 1990s. Second, English speakers, Americans among others, assume that their language is universally spoken. Surely the percentage of non-native English speakers has increase since the 1990s. English language popularity may not be based on the fact that it is widely spoke, but rather, the considerable consumption of English language derivatives—music, entertainment, and cinema. Surely English’s popularity is indisputable as commodity. Perhaps, that is what makes some English feel haughty about their native tongue.
Bob Perez is right, English learners, even a specific individual, exist in flux. I too have morphed in regards to English as many other close to me have. I have been considered by some to speak English with an accent and deemed by others to have perfect enunciation. Who knew language ability could vary so greatly without it changing, but by context. That is what makes language so fascinating. It is for that reason that even during my early childhood I sought to learn other languages even under dire circumstances, although I didn’t understand how it would shape me. It is strange how decisions and circumstance can have such a marking effect.
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