In The Language of African literature what does NgugiwaThiongo say changes for indigenous peoples when they are forced to learn another language?

Ngugi wa Thiong'o argues that when indigenous peoples are forced to learn another language, they undergo a profound shift in their identity and understanding of the world. Here's a breakdown of his key points:

1. Loss of Cultural Identity:

* Language as a foundation: He sees language as the foundation of culture. It's not just a tool for communication but embodies a people's history, values, traditions, and worldview.

* Erasure of identity: When forced to learn a foreign language, especially one associated with colonialism and power, indigenous people are effectively forced to abandon their own language and culture. This can lead to a sense of alienation and a loss of their own identity.

2. Colonization of the Mind:

* Internalized dominance: Learning the colonizer's language is not just about acquiring a new skill. It also internalizes the power dynamics of colonialism and reinforces the idea that the colonizer's language and culture are superior.

* Intellectual subservience: This process can lead to a feeling of intellectual subservience, where indigenous people are made to believe they are incapable of expressing themselves or thinking critically in their own language.

3. Distortion of Reality:

* Limited perspective: Language shapes our perception of the world. By learning another language, we are forced to view the world through the lens of that language, which may not fully capture or reflect the reality of our own experiences and culture.

* Loss of knowledge: The suppression of indigenous languages also results in the loss of valuable knowledge and wisdom passed down through generations in those languages.

4. Need for Reclaiming Language and Identity:

* Decolonization of the mind: Ngugi argues that reclaiming and revitalizing indigenous languages is crucial for decolonizing the minds of individuals and communities.

* Empowerment and agency: By using and promoting their own languages, indigenous people can regain agency and control over their own narratives and cultural expressions.

In summary, Ngugi wa Thiong'o believes that forcing indigenous peoples to learn another language is a form of cultural and intellectual colonization. It leads to the loss of identity, internalization of power dynamics, and a distorted perception of reality. Reclaiming their own languages is essential for decolonization and empowering indigenous communities.