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On language and political awareness

Decided to combine two themes for today's post because they're both kind of short.  Early on in my trip I noted subtle differences in the use of language by Australians versus those in the States.  It was a pleasant surprise, and something I have continued to take note of during my time here.  The following phrases are just a few examples of how Australian English has a very light and chipper flavor:

"Would you like me to top off your tea, ma'am?"

"I've got to top up my myki today" (transportation card)

"Cheers" (used often instead of thank you, hello, goodbye, good, okay)

Word + "o"
    Examples: cheerio, right-o

Goodonya--that one's not necessarily as cheerful as the others, but still a very Australian phrase; hard to translate, but kind of used as "good job", or "good deal".  Very situational.

Other things I picked up about Australian English are its relationship to aboriginal roots.  Examples: Corowa, Woorongarra, Wahgunyah, Warangatta.  There seems to be a love affair with the letter W as well.

Random fast fact:  Did you know that "kangaroo" actually translates to "I don't know"?  Haha neither did I until yesterday.

Based on all of these linguistic nuances, I have a feeling British English is pretty similar in it's lilt.

The other topic of interest is political awareness.  Maybe it has something to do with the fact that compulsory voting was enacted in Australia in 1912, but wow, do I feel dumb when it comes to understanding Australia's politics and political system.  I feel like most people here know more about the States than I do!  And it's more than just pop culture.  Stories about Trump are on the headlines and featured as part of the mainstream news on TV.  I know that news coverage is pretty biased in the U.S., but I didn't realize how sheltered it makes us and vulnerable when we're completely unaware of what's going on elsewhere.  I think that we would do well to implement a similar compulsory voting law.  We'd probably want to know more about the people being put in office, right?  And maybe there would be enough support for representatives from different political parties that our whole system could change for the better.

Such a law would require massive public support.  Or an executive order by the President.  Not sure how that could work....

Anyways, as I'm writing this I have a kick ass view of the Docklands from one of the library branches right on the water.  Working on job applications for a couple hours and then headed to the South Melbourne Market to volunteer with SecondBite, an organization that does work with reducing food waste.



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