1. "Broken" or "Limited" English: This is the English spoken by her mother, characterized by grammatical errors, limited vocabulary, and a heavily accented pronunciation. While functional for everyday communication, it is often perceived as "inferior" or "incorrect" by the dominant English-speaking culture.
2. "Standard" English: This is the formal, grammatically correct English taught in schools and used in professional settings. Tan acknowledges that she has mastered this form, but she also recognizes its limitations in capturing the nuances of her mother's language.
3. "Englishes" of the Chinese-American Community: Tan describes the various Englishes used within her own community, which often incorporate Chinese words, phrases, and grammatical structures. These "Englishes" reflect the unique cultural experiences of Chinese-Americans and can be understood and appreciated only by those within the community.
4. "Literary" English: This is the sophisticated and eloquent language Tan employs in her writing. She uses this form to challenge the dominant perception of "correct" English, showcasing the richness and beauty of her mother's "broken" English in literary form.
5. "The Language of the In-Between": This is the concept Tan introduces to bridge the gap between "broken" and "standard" English. It acknowledges that language is not static but evolves and changes based on context, experience, and identity.
Tan's main argument is that:
* There is no single "correct" English, but rather a spectrum of Englishes influenced by culture, background, and identity.
* "Broken" English is not simply incorrect but rather a reflection of a unique cultural perspective and deserves respect and recognition.
* By embracing the complexities of different Englishes, we can challenge linguistic hierarchies and foster understanding and appreciation across cultures.
In conclusion, Amy Tan's "different Englishes" highlight the importance of linguistic diversity and the power of language to reflect identity and cultural experiences. She urges us to move beyond simplistic notions of "correct" and "incorrect" English and embrace the richness and beauty of the many ways people communicate.