Can Someone Be a Native Speaker of Two Languages Without Knowing How to Read or Write?

Language is a complex and often beautiful system that goes far beyond the written word. While literacy is undoubtedly an important aspect of mastering a language, it is not a requirement to be a fluent and native speaker. In fact, there are numerous instances where individuals can be proficient in multiple languages without reading or writing them. Let's explore this fascinating topic and delve into some examples.

The Role of Reading and Writing in Language

Of the thousands of languages spoken in the world today, only a few hundred have formal writing systems. This leaves the vast majority of languages to be passed down through oral traditions, such as storytelling and recitation. Cultures around the world also maintain rich musical and literary traditions that are often remembered and shared without the need for written records.

At the heart of a language lies its spoken form. It is through speech that language truly comes alive, and fluency in a language is often reflected in one's ability to use it naturally in conversation. The ability to read and write can certainly enhance a person's command of a language, but it does not define the depth of their native fluency.

Being a Native Speaker Without Literacy

The concept of being a native speaker of a language is inherently tied to the speaker's fluency and natural command of the language. For a long time, it was believed that reading and writing were necessary components of being a native speaker. However, this view is now being challenged, and many linguists and researchers are exploring the nuances of multilingualism beyond the traditional scope of literacy.

Living in a multilingual environment can lead to fluency in multiple languages without the need for written literacy. In many cases, individuals learn their native language or dialect primarily through oral interaction, without ever learning to read or write. They may also learn additional languages in similar oral contexts.

Examples of Illiterate Native Speakers

There are many examples of individuals who are illiterate yet still capable of being native speakers of multiple languages. Here are a few significant examples:

Businesswoman from a Developing Country

My late mother-in-law was an excellent example of an illiterate individual who mastered multiple languages and business skills. She was a highly successful businesswoman in a developing country, entirely without the ability to read or write. She managed to build a lucrative produce business that thrived for decades, relying on her oral communication skills and domesticated literacy through trusted advisors and business partners.

She exemplifies how one can navigate and thrive in a multilingual and often illiterate environment. Her success lies in her ability to communicate effectively through spoken language and to rely on a network of trusted individuals who can help with written documentation and other formalities. This network acted as an extension of her 'written' capabilities, ensuring that she could still conduct all necessary business activities.

Language Immersion through Childhood

Another intriguing example is found in cases where individuals spend part of their childhood in one country and part in another. In such situations, people can develop a deep bilingualism, with neither language dominating the other. Consider a child who is exposed to one language at home and another in their community or at school. If they are immersed in both environments equally, they can become a fluent speaker of both languages without needing to read or write either of them. This type of bilingualism is known as simultaneous bilingualism.

Business and Social Networks

Illiterate native speakers often rely on a strong network of social and business contacts to navigate their environments. These networks can include:

Conversations and discussions with trusted colleagues and friends to tr_build their language skills. Reliance on oral recitations, storytelling, and traditions to retain and share cultural knowledge without written records. Utilization of trusted advisors and intermediaries to handle documented transactions and written documentation.

By leveraging these resources and the support of a robust community, illiterate native speakers can achieve high levels of proficiency in multiple languages.

For many individuals in less developed or isolated regions, literacy is not a prerequisite for being a native speaker. Regulatory or formal documentation may not be accessible or necessary, which means that these individuals can still live full, productive, and successful lives simply by mastering spoken language.

Conclusion

The ability to speak and understand multiple languages is a testament to the richness and adaptability of human communication. While literacy is a valuable skill, it is not a defining factor in being a native speaker. Whether through immersion, cultural traditions, or the support of a strong community network, individuals can effectively master and communicate in multiple languages without ever learning to read or write.