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From: sdelsol@netcom.com (Shannon Adamson)
Subject: Re: English in France
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Date: Mon, 12 Feb 1996 22:36:12 GMT
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Raphael,
Please, sir, lighten up and follow your own advice.   Nous nous
comprenons.   Your example of not understanding a culture simply by
learning the language is entirely true.  This is demonstrated by your
reaction to my comment about "beauty in your day".  You only assume
you understand what I meant based on the words I chose.  There are no
facial expressions, defined cultural understandings or any other aides
attached to those black and white words.  You know not of where I am
from, or my cultural background, yet you feel the freedom to chastise
me publicly about the very thing you yourself are guilty of.     How
could you think I implied that the nuances of an entire culture could
be understood through words?  There is no one language that can
encompass every culture of the world.  Yes, English is very practical
and may well be the most effecient choice for an International
language - a common denominator for BUSINESS, not full cultural
understanding.     As far as my learning social nuances for gaining
insights about  another country, you have no idea to what extent I
have gone to do so.  More than you obviously have based on your well
chosen, oh so "English" words.  For the record, I am neither naive or
"schmatzy", and you obviously could use a little more beauty in YOUR
day.  Thank you for bringing such clarity and cultural understanding
to the Internet with your wise opinions.   Je ne peux vous en dire.  
Shannon 

