American Minority Literature: Terms and Themes

"Double Language"

Double language was originally a feminist language concept that suggested how women, lacking voice in a patriarchal society, find ways to express their attitudes.

A standard humorous example involves a gathering of couples in which one husband starts telling his wife how he expects things to be, to which his wife answers, "Yes, dear."

"Yes" may have more than one meaning for more than one audience.

The husband hears "yes" and feels validated.

However, the other women may hear tones in her voice that suggest reservations, or that the wife is just saying yes to keep the husband calm. Maybe "yes" doesn't really agree with what he's saying but only that she's listening.

The concept of double language can be extended from gender to ethnic minorities. A standard example is blues music, in which the lyrics and melody offer alternative moods of joy and sadness.

Other examples will follow . . . .