Elise Mooradian

Let's look at an Iowan frame of language.

(INTERVIEW):

What is your name & what pronouns do you use?

My name is Elise Mooradian, and I use she/her pronouns.

Where are you from?

I am from Des Moines, Iowa.

What is unique about the language/the way language is used where you are from? 

The language used where I am from is through and through midwestern. The actual sound associated with our language is not super distinct; some would say bland, which is the trademark of the midwest. Others might say the language used here has a lot of farm/agricultural tones and heavy emphasis on vowels like o and a. People use a lot of metaphors in day-to-day life as well as Euphemisms. Definitely heavy on Euphemisms. Being polite is a norm that bleeds into the language we use. 

What kind of environment does this use of language create?

In my experience, social issues are not often talked about directly as they are points of conflict and often make people feel uncomfortable, which goes against the whole polite thing that is going on here. People use different words in place of words like sex, black, gay, etc. because even if they aren't actually controversial words, people associate these words with controversial topics.

Can you think of an interaction or saying that describes where you are from?

When I think of words or phrases the term "ope" or phrase "let me squeeze past ya" are definitely great examples of the sorts of sounds and phrases you hear thrown around a lot. 

When it comes to more serious conversations about things like social issues, for example, people will often beat around the bush to be politically correct. For example, people might say African American instead of the word black to be politically correct, even though that's the more politically incorrect thing to say. For some reason, the word black makes people uncomfortable. I suppose it's relevant to note it's a very white region of the world. 

How has this impacted who you are? 

I think this has made me very hesitant when talking about sensitive topics like race, gender, sexuality, etc. I sometimes find it difficult to refer to things as they actually are because growing up I was taught that people had adverse reactions to those sorts of things.

Where do you think you break away from this language? 

I think I’ve learned to speak more directly over time. To refer back to my earlier example, I’ve learned that black is not a bad word and is often more accurate than saying “African American,” which often wrongfully assumes that every black person is of African descent. I think the realization that a lot of these social issues directly impact me and the people that I love has made me realize I don't really want to adhere to this polite framework of navigating the world because things aren't addressed as they should be in that context.

POST-INTERVIEW: What does Elise's experience tell us about frames?

Elise's narrative is a compelling study of how linguistic norms in Iowa shape perceptions and conversations around crucial social issues. It's an intricate dance of words, where what is left unsaid is as telling as what is spoken. Elise's journey of learning to speak more directly, particularly on topics like race and gender, is a testament to the evolving nature of language and personal growth. Her experiences reflect a broader commentary on the influence of regional linguistic norms on our worldview. It demonstrates how one can both belong to and stand apart from their linguistic heritage, challenging and reshaping the 'frames' they were born into. Elise's story is not just about adapting to linguistic norms but about breaking free from them to address issues in a more forthright and authentic manner. This evolution highlights the dynamic interplay between language, culture, and personal identity in the Midwestern context.