I do not like the German language. It sounds ugly, rispid. If it was a movie scene, it would be the scene where someone runs through thick woods and thorns and get really hurt and keep tripping because the terrain is not plain and there are roots in the way. Plus, the words are far too long.
I do not deny, however, the need to speak German. Let it be know, I know nothing of it. But I admit I should learn. Someday, eventually, in the far future, after I am done with, hmm, Japanese, Italian, Latin, Russian. Maybe. Maybe applies to all five languages mentioned here so far.
Because, unfortunately, Germany is a powerful economy today. And many smaller countries in Europe speak some form of German, such as Austria and Switzerland. I understand the differences between what is spoken in Germany and Switzerland are enormous, but my point stands, no less.
Furthermore, there is the issue of reading the original. As I am sure Dostoievski is much better in its original Russian form, I do believe Kafka meant a lot more than our translations show. And unless the tales about the Japanese translation being better than the original are true, German is still the best way to read "Faust".
Lastly, there is one thing I noticed recently that has the potential to nullify my first point, about it being ugly. It is called Asuka. From Evangelion, which I finally, finally watched. German spoken by her sounds adorable, delightful. Of course, most languages spoken by Japanese girls sound cute. Saabisu, saabisu! Mayhaps, if it comes to pass, I shall learn German in Japanese.
Hmmm.
Posted by Etienne at July 21, 2003 06:02 PM