A quick description of Babel-17’s story is about language and how it shapes how people perceive the reality they live in and how they communicate with each other.
When it comes to “mind game” in the story, I feel language may be perceived as a mind game. Language, by definition means combination between individuals. In Babel 17, language is used to determine how one is to go through certain situations. Their grasp on the language is their way of seeing how one perceives the world and how the different classes, from upper class, new world, Far East, and how to determine each of their values.
Language, as seen in the story, is used to show political awareness and and establishment, as well as showing character’s actions and how they would react towards certain situations. I feel that this gives language this sense of importance. Language is very important. It is used to verbally show culture and can help other cultures learn from one another. In Babel-17’s case, I do feel that this assumption is exaggerated, yet made into an interesting aspect of the story. Language is used as an understanding, which is quite similar to how language is now; viewed as understanding another culture.
The idea that language can be the main theme of a Sci-Fi story is interesting. The way that it is used to show different classes is similar to our world and it is sad to think it is still might be used the same way in the future.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your interpretation of language being used as a mind game. Rydra Wong really messes with people's heads as she is able to predict what others are thinking and repeat it to them out loud. The feeling that someone is able to hear whats going on inside your mind can seriously mess with your mental state and perception of reality.
ReplyDelete