Comunicación
Gloria Estefan
The Struggle for Bilingual Expression
Gloria Estefan's song "Comunicación" delves into the complexities and challenges of living in a bilingual world. The lyrics reflect the confusion and frustration that often accompany the blending of two languages, in this case, Spanish and English. Estefan sings about how her speech becomes a mix of both languages, leading to misunderstandings and a sense of disorientation. This duality is a common experience for many bilingual individuals who navigate between different linguistic and cultural identities daily.
The song highlights the importance of communication, not just in terms of language but also in understanding and empathy. Estefan points out that the real issue is not the mixing of languages but the lack of effective communication in the world. She emphasizes that whether she speaks in Spanish or English, the message should be understood the same way. This underscores a broader societal issue where the focus should be on the content and intent of communication rather than the language used.
Moreover, the song touches on the cultural pressures and expectations placed on bilingual individuals. Phrases like "launchear" and "typear" illustrate the blending of languages in everyday life, often leading to criticism and misunderstanding. Estefan's refusal to choose between Spanish and English symbolizes a broader resistance to conforming to a single cultural identity. Instead, she advocates for embracing both languages and cultures, promoting a more inclusive and understanding world.