Emma Jo Tennant

Exploring the Frame of Language that Exists in Nashville, Tennessee: 

(INTERVIEW):

What is your name & what pronouns do you use?

My name is Emma Jo Tennant, and I use She/Her pronouns.

Where are you from?

I grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, but I spent time in Oklahoma and Kansas growing up too.

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

Southern lingo/phrases utilize many metaphors and expressions that may seem borderline inappropriate or offensive when in reality, I've heard them used to describe everyday actions/events. 

There is a lot of religion tied into how Southerners describe the actions of others or even judge others, for example, the usage of language like "bless her heart". 

I think these characteristics often categorize Southerners as less educated than the rest of the United States just by how they say things, which may be true in some cases, but often it acts to discriminate against those who do not have adequate access to quality education, if any.

What kind of environment does this use of language create?

This language environment reinforces the religiosity and perceived "backwardness" of Southern culture by those in other regions in the United States and across the globe. 

Bringing up topics of sexuality, race discrimination, or politics usually invokes a certain amount of anger in many people in the South as they group together church and state. This usually results in more of a defensive tone when bringing up important issues as a product of the environment around the South.

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

Phrases like 'bless her heart (which can be used in so so so many ways, for example, to show sympathy or to show judgment), the dominant usage of the word "y'all", and the prominence of the 'southern accent" really dominate how conversations function and flow.

How has this impacted who you are? 

This impacts the implicit bias I have toward the south, even though I am a product of Southern culture. 

I think I try to avoid "sounding southern" because I believe that people at GW and other places will have a certain perception of me that may not necessarily be positive. 

Where do you think you break away from this language?

I think I diverge from the "southern language" with its connections to religion and how it's equipped in the lingo to judge others that don't fit by the culture's definition. 

I think this is a reflection of my more liberal views compared to the majority of the south and as a product of my "unusual/untraditional" upbringing compared to my peers and others, I interacted with growing up.

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

Decoding the Southern Vernacular

EJ sheds light on the quintessentially Southern way of speech, marked by its rich metaphors and expressions. These phrases, often misunderstood as inappropriate or offensive, are in fact intricate parts of everyday discourse in the South. She highlights the religious undertones prevalent in expressions like "bless her heart," reflecting a deep-seated intertwining of faith and daily life.

This linguistic style, EJ notes, often leads to misconceptions about the education level of Southerners, overlooking the socio-economic disparities that limit access to quality education.

The Cultural Context of Southern Speech

The Southern dialect, as EJ reveals, is more than just a means of communication; it's a mirror reflecting the region's religious fervor and perceived conservatism. Discussing sensitive topics like sexuality, race, or politics often stirs intense emotions, highlighting the fusion of church and state in the collective Southern psyche.

Phrases that Paint a Picture

EJ brings to life the essence of Nashville with phrases like "bless her heart" and the ubiquitous "y'all," accentuated by the distinct Southern drawl. These linguistic elements are not just words but are keys to understanding the rhythm and flow of conversations in the South.

EJ's Personal Linguistic Journey

This linguistic backdrop has significantly shaped EJ's self-perception and biases. Despite her Southern roots, she consciously distances herself from the regional accent to avoid stereotypical judgments. Her liberal views and unique upbringing have led her to diverge from the traditional Southern language, particularly its use in passing judgment based on religious beliefs.

Post-Interview Reflections: The Power of Linguistic Frames

EJ's insights offer a profound understanding of how the 'frame' of language in a specific region can both shape and limit an individual. Her journey highlights the broader significance of the human language experience and how one can transcend the confines of regional linguistic norms.

Through EJ's narrative, we unravel the complexities of setting, participants, conversational dynamics, speech forms, and societal norms in language development. Her story is a testament to the power of language in shaping our identity and our worldview, urging us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the rich, diverse tapestry of human communication.