| 24. |
31 Dec 2005 Sat 02:05 pm |
|
Quoting LauzBrownEyedBe: gutted i already sent it. thank you for next time though  |
Don’t worry Laura!! I’m sure your boyfriend's mother will not be offended by the use of "sen" rather than "siz".
Although siz does show respect, I think that the message in question is very informal in tone, so sen is appropriate here. Also, the fact that she has said: "Umarım seni rahatsız etmiyorum" does show care and an element of respect. And I must admit, the fact that it starts with "Hi, it's Laura again" would make me think that the use of sen can be justified. Plus, given that this is a text message, I feel it is more apt that an informal tone is adopted. (Particularly when you consider the content). If Laura was sending a text message in English to her boyfriend’s mother, the tone would be as she has written here – friendly and warm. This does not mean that the message is disrespectful; it is just our culture not to be overtly formal. (Naturally, there are exceptions.) Of course, Laura should respect Turkish culture, but I would think that Musti's mother would be flattered that this girl has taken the time to write in Turkish. (After all, she doesn't know that the message has been translated by yabanci – although she may be a little surprised at the content).
If Laura and Musti are to stay together, they need to start learning each other's culture now! Musti's mother should not be offended by the use of sen, just as I would hope she would not be offended if at their first meeting Laura did not know to kiss her hand. (Note to Laura, do learn about these customs before meeting this lady!) They are from different countries – cultural differences are to be expected and embraced.
Phew... I am beginning to feel like I know these people.. and that I am in a soap-opera...! I look forward to the next installment!
|
|
