When I envisioned creating my blog, I asked myself an essential question: Which language should I use to express myself? As Yohanan, every conscious decision I make stems from my own history, personal experiences, and feelings. A trilingual journey – French, English, and Spanish – turned out to be more than just a practical choice: it reflects my experiences.
French: My Roots and Aspirations
Born in France, I’ve relished the nuances of this language through its various dialects and expressions, with each region having its own melody. Brussels was then my home for seven years, a city where French mixes with other languages but always maintains its central place. My love for Switzerland is not only linked to its majestic mountains and lakes but also to its unique version of French, colored by accents and exclusive terms. And Quebec? It’s a lifelong dream, an aspiration, a plan. I am drawn to the idea of living amidst this dynamic culture where French is sung with a different melody.
Living in England: Immersion in the English-speaking World
Living in Glastonbury for several years, the spiritual heart of England, the magic of English surrounds me. From local legends to streets in certain towns and villages reminiscent of Harry Potter, this language connects me to a rich universe. But its reach goes beyond: English is also the world’s lingua franca, crucial in business, pop culture, and international exchanges.
A Journey Through South America
My relationship with Spanish deepened during my travels in South America. From the mystical heights of the Peruvian Andes to the colorful markets of Bolivia, from the vast desert expanses of Chile to the fiery tangos of Argentina. Each of these countries offered me unforgettable perspectives and encounters, enriching my understanding of the Spanish language and culture.
Language Challenges
Contrary to what many might think, languages have never been a natural passion for me. On the contrary, they’ve always been a challenge. Even French, my mother tongue, was a puzzle during my childhood. I often struggled in French class, though I’ve always been an avid reader. Learning English and Spanish was a journey filled with obstacles, but also discoveries and wonders.
Hidden Treasures of Each Language
Each of these languages harbors unique treasures that have fascinated me. French, with its nuance and poetry, always reminded me of the “language of the birds”, this esoteric expression that conceals deeper meanings. English, with its simplicity and directness, became the perfect tool to express my ideas concisely while diving into a rich and varied literature. Spanish, with its passion and musicality, allowed me to emotionally connect with my stories, bringing warmth and sincerity to every word.
A Third of the World’s Population
Choosing to be trilingual in French, English, and Spanish is more than just a linguistic choice: it’s a powerful strategy to reach nearly a third of the world’s population and extend to 53 countries. With English, the language of business and culture, you can reach over a billion speakers in nations ranging from the UK to Australia. Spanish, with its 580 million speakers, is the official language of 21 countries, mainly in Latin America and Spain. French, spoken by about 275 million people, is the official language of 29 countries across several continents. Thus, by combining these three languages, one opens up to a potential audience of 2.3 billion individuals spread across 53 countries, ensuring unmatched international influence and reach.
Technology at Our Service, but the Soul Remains Irreplaceable
Today, we live in an era where online translation tools are of exceptional quality, greatly facilitating the task for bloggers like me. These tools can provide a solid base, but it’s essential to infuse one’s own essence into them. Translation shouldn’t just be faithful to the text; it should carry the soul of its author. It’s with this goal in mind that I rework each translation, ensuring that my voice, my identity, is present.
In Conclusion
My choice to combine English, Spanish, and French mirrors my journey, with its ups and downs, successes, and challenges. It’s an invitation to all my readers to join me in this adventure, to explore the riches and complexities of each language, and to share your own stories and challenges. Together, we continue to learn and grow.
