Latin American Literature Reading List Posted by Transparent Language on Jan 7, 2008
As we greet the New Year, now might be just the time to introduce a loved one (or yourself!) to the varied and delicious world of Latin American literature.The following is a partial list of some of my favorite Spanish-language novels (in no particular order), all of which are easy to find in Spanish…
Apenas Posted by Transparent Language on Jan 2, 2008
Apenas is an adverb frequently used in the Spanish language, and one that has a multiplicity of meanings and applications.It’s one of those words that require you to use the context to determine which meaning the speaker intends.My Spanish students would often complain about this phenomenon, until I reminded them how context-driven oral English…
Las Posadas Songs Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 31, 2007
Posadas is a wonderful Mexican holiday that brings neighbors and friends together for nine festive nights of singing and eating. Beginning December 16th and continuing through Christmas Eve, Posadas reenact the experience of Joseph and Mary as they wandered from house to house, looking for shelter (Posada means inn in Spanish) Traditionally, participants gather together…
The History of the Piñata Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 27, 2007
As the holiday season comes upon us, I felt it timely to clear up a misconception about the piñata.The piñata is widely viewed as a Mexican diversion and has become an indispensable attraction in children’s birthday parties throughout the world.However, in Mexico the piñata makes its most important appearance, not at birthday parties, but…
The Meaning of “Ahorita” Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 18, 2007
I have learned a curious thing about the word ahorita since living in Mexico for a couple of years.It has two seemingly contradictory meanings: “right now” and “in a minute.” When I first studied abroad, I found that when my host mother asked my host sister to do something “ahorita,” she jumped to attention…
The Preterite and the Imperfect: Part 1 Posted by Transparent Language on Dec 9, 2007
Ah, the dreaded past tense.Once the Spanish learner comes to terms with ser and estar, they are thrown the curve ball of preterite and imperfect.Here is a quick review of the main uses of each.However, keep in mind that as with any grammar “rule” there are exceptions! The preterite is used when talking about…
The Word América Posted by Transparent Language on Nov 12, 2007
In skimming through TL´s Portuguese Blog I came across Christopher O’Donnell’s excellent article on the word “America” and the controversy it can spark when used incorrectly in a foreign language. This is an important point for our Spanish-speaking audience as well, and a problem I personally faced on my first study abroad experience in Mexico…