Slang In Society

All around the world no matter ones cultural differences or age, slang is spoken though out the household, office, and even school yard. Unlike some languages like English, Spanish, or even French, slang is not one that can be learned in the classroom or textbook.  It is the only language that does not have direct or correct definitions, leaving loads of words up for interpretation. Slang also has no concept of remembrance. According to poet Carl Sandburg, “Slang is the language that takes off its coat, spits on its hands, and goes to work”. For this, the reason that slang is constantly changing and never lasts long, and using it in literature or formal writing situations would be a huge mistake.

Youth today have the upper hand on this subculture. Learning and creating this world of culture is as simple as creating new music, clothing, and art. Changes within the environment, society, and governments will reflect the words we choose to use. For example; months after the horrible tragedy of 9/11, language in America was drastically changed. American citizens using words like terrorist, turban, and jihad although would never otherwise be used, were created as insults to one another. Like most of the societies though these eras, these words will soon die out and create an opening for new and improved ones. Having the ability to use these old “played out” words as a sound track of the past allows us to create an imaginary “picture” of what culture truly means.