Bonjour chers lecteurs et lectrices,
Without pretense, I decided today to join the community of bloggers. I strongly believe that I have a lot to share about the French language and everything linked to speaking and learning French. Of course, a language cannot be discussed in isolation because it is directly connected to the people speaking the language; it is embedded in their culture and their everyday life.
With every new posting I will have le mot du jour or the word of the day. I intend to present and deliver different forms of postings depending on my inspiration, my frame of mind, the time I will have available, as well as suggestions by others (which are very welcome). My objective here is to illustrate that the French language is still very much alive. The mots du jour will give me a chance to address a wide selection of topics and things.
One more disclaimer: as I am trying to reach non-French speakers, I am writing in English and you will quickly recognize that this is not my native language so, bear with my very own writing style. However, I will use French words and expressions on a regular basis as I am trying to disseminate the French language. Don’t worry, there are no pop quizzes!
For starters, do you know in how many countries French is commonly spoken? How many people speak French around the world?
About 200 million people around the world speak French (as their native or second language or as the official language of their country); about 70 different countries and/or governments form la Francophonie or le monde de la Francophonie. French-speaking people who live in these countries are called Francophones, not to be confused with francophiles (persons who admire France, its people or/and its culture).
Le mot du jour: la Francophonie
Here is a map to give you an idea of the francophone community
More info on the subject:
http://www.frontenac-ameriques.org/la-francophonie-en-amerique/article/qu-est-ce-que-la-francophonie
Felicitations! and welcome to the blogosphere. I agree the French language is alive and well. Looking forward to more "mots" on the subject
Posted by: une jolie fille | 09/10/2010 at 06:55 PM
Nicely done Dr. Hicks! I believe it is important that blogs such as this exist in an effort to better articulate the social and historical aspects of a language to the language learner. In a world where we have the technological tools to be instantaneously connected to one another, it is important to use tools such as this to gain a better understanding of what aspects of modern life we share, and what differentiates us across continents. I look forward to the discussions!
Posted by: Dr Randall Ryder | 09/13/2010 at 05:08 AM
Great webpage. I like all the links to various places where French is spoken. And the pictures of the Paris rooftops--were they taken from the same apartment, but different windows?
Keep blogging. Your page is fun, tres jolie!
Posted by: Patrick | 09/21/2010 at 07:25 PM
The picture of the rooftops is a view of Paris I have never seen. Indeed, I would have to agree it is beautiful! I would also admit that your narrative along with the photos helped me to feel that I was there with you. Nicely done!
Posted by: Joanne | 09/22/2010 at 02:47 PM