Thread: So whats so wrong with being able to speak French?

To the OP, I don't think I'm oversimplifying it too much in thinking that one of his goals in saying that is just to try to paint him as a bit of a sissy. No offense to our French friends, but that's the stereotype in the States, and I'm sure that comes as no surprise. Sometimes the basest implications can be the strongest. No one wants a sissy leading the country!

Also, I think "anti-intellectual" is the wrong term. Anti-European, sure. Anti-elitism, yes. There may be fine lines between these concepts (especially for our European members) but I think they're discernible lines nonetheless.

For example, one of the complaints lodged against Obama is that he at times seems more interested in how the rest of the world views us than many of us really care. Many Americans, including myself, don't see the European system as something to emulate. To many, Obama's seeming to be constantly seeking the rest of the world's approval doesn't jive well with our western, cowboyish, rugged-individualist foundation. He could certainly be playing to that sentiment.

Plus, likening your opponent to John Kerry in any manner is a pretty good tactic.

Originally Posted by Jimbo7

To the OP, I don't think I'm oversimplifying it too much in thinking that one of his goals in saying that is just to try to paint him as a bit of a sissy. No offense to our French friends, but that's the stereotype in the States, and I'm sure that comes as no surprise. Sometimes the basest implications can be the strongest. No one wants a sissy leading the country!

Also, I think "anti-intellectual" is the wrong term. Anti-European, sure. Anti-elitism, yes. There may be fine lines between these concepts (especially for our European members) but I think they're discernible lines nonetheless.

For example, one of the complaints lodged against Obama is that he at times seems more interested in how the rest of the world views us than many of us really care. Many Americans, including myself, don't see the European system as something to emulate. To many, Obama's seeming to be constantly seeking the rest of the world's approval doesn't jive well with our western, cowboyish, rugged-individualist foundation. He could certainly be playing to that sentiment.

Plus, likening your opponent to John Kerry in any manner is a pretty good tactic.

Well said

Jeff

I admire the French to some degree. They will have a revolution at the drop of a hat (so to speak).

As to speaking multiple languages, the more the better. I only speak two; English and Spanish (and neither one well). I forgot what little Tzutujil I learned and only know 2 words in Quiche (both are Mayan languages).

I intend on becoming more fluent in Spanish and learning some Portuguese and maybe some other romance languages. Depends on where I want to travel to some degree. French appears to be more difficult than I wish to deal with. Here in the western hemisphere I can survive knowing what I now am able to speak.

Jeff

As for the political side of this thread, we will get what they give us. It will be some one who will hold the status quo. I have very little respect for either major party here in the States.

Jeff