Student Question
Why do the paisanos in Tortilla Flat speak in their particular style?
Quick answer:
The paisanos' distinct speech style in Tortilla Flat likely reflects a translation from Spanish, incorporating formal phrases like "thee" and "thy," which mirror Spanish's more formal structure. These speech patterns emphasize their cultural separation from Western capitalist norms, highlighting their unique identity and choice, or exclusion, from mainstream society. The formal, coded language also underscores their different cultural background and social integration.
We might presume that the paisanos' speech is actually "translated" from Spanish. Some of the phrases that the men use, such as "thee" and "thy" are direct translations of Spanish phrases that are still in use. (Spanish is more formal than English in some ways.)
This would explain the phrases and idioms used by the paisanos, including the rather formal and codified ways that they curse one another.
The speech patterns of the paisanos serves to emphasize the idea that they do not fully integrate or participate in traditional Western/capitalist culture. They belong to another culture, by choice or by exclusion, or both.
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