Quote by June Jordan
Language is political. That's why you and me, my Brother and Sister, that's why we supposed to choke our natural self into the weird, lying, barbarous, unreal, white speech and writing habits that the schools lay down like holy law. Because, in other words, the powerful don't play; they mean to keep that power, and those who are the powerless (you and me) better shape up --mimic/ape/suck --in the very image of the powerful, or the powerful will destroy you --you and our children.
Summary
This quote highlights the political nature of language and how it is used by those in power to maintain their dominance. The speaker suggests that individuals who lack power, like you and me, are expected to conform and suppress their natural speech in order to adopt the language and writing habits imposed by schools. The powerful enforce these linguistic norms to ensure they continue to hold onto their power. Failure to comply with these expectations can lead to destruction for individuals and future generations.
Topics
Language
By June Jordan
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