I have been in hawaii for a couple weeks now and I have picked up on something. It seems that people here use almost no hawaiin launguage except for the word Mahalo, which means thank you. I really cant stand it because they should choose if they want to speak english or not. I hate that they just try to put one word in and make you think that if you use this one word then you are respecting the hawaiin launguage, maybe even more. So while I am here I refuse to say the word Mahalo. Do you know any place that has something like what I am talking about ere?
Thats intersting. But sadly a lot of the Hawaiins have lost there native culture. I studied this a little in my world dance class, and one of the main ways they try and preserve there culture is through the Hula. Not the westernized Hula that many of us think of. The natives actualy sings poems that tell there story and the movements are focused on the words. I thought it was really interesting to see how the Hula has changed over time.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I am completely jealous. Hawaii! Running away from the winter weather that has finally set in?
ReplyDeleteSecondly, I agree, it is interesting...although, somewhat expected. With the number of American tourists that frequently visit the island, it's no surprise to me that their native language would take a backseat. It's unfortunate.
You are so lucky I need a vacation after this semester! I feel like so many people visit Hawaii as tourists that it becomes easy for rituals and the culture to get lost
ReplyDeleteWhat are you doing in Hawaii? I will be there in one short month! This will be my third visit, I am very lucky to have a few relatives that live on Oahu. I love the laid back attitude and the casualness of the islands. People are more calm, friendlier and overall nicer. They smile at you, the take it easy, they wear flip flops and khaki shorts to work. It a completely different way of life there. Enjoy your visit!! I hope you plan on visiting the North Shore and seeing the 50ft waves and the Quicksilver surf competition this week! Those waves happen once every 10 years or so. I am super jealous! Let us know if you go and how it is :)
ReplyDeleteyeah nate, wtf are you doing in hawaii? and why are you sweating it if people say mahalo. i bet it's just force of habit. deal, ya lucky bastard!
ReplyDeleteI know Louisiana has an infused dialect with English and French. I actually admire how Hawaii tries to keep their culture alive. They have a strong Samoan representation so it is good to see they haven't forgoteen their heritage. I can't understand it being a bit frusturating being that you are not used to it but that is exactly why you should be going to new places. It is rereshing to experience new things, even if you don't like it...it gives you perspective. At least it does for me.
ReplyDeleteI think this is kind of interesting. Seeing as Hawaii is such a popular tourist destination, I am not surprised that English is the primary language, but I think it is a good thing that there are still some elements incorporated that are representative of Hawaiin culture.
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