Category Archives: Folk speech

You always do kind things with expecting nothing in return.

Age: 22
Language: Spanish/English

Text: You always do kind things with expecting nothing in return.

Context: The participant remembers hearing this saying a lot around his family, especially coming from his mother. Although originally the phrase was said to him in Spanish, he does not remember the original Spanish phrasing; as such, he only remember this translation. He recounted that in his youth, his mother enjoyed volunteer work and would always encourage his entire family to volunteer and help out their local community. To the participant, this saying reminds him that he should be doing good “not as a means to something but for the act of doing good”. 

Analysis: This saying is meant to convey an ethical lesson in support of altruism. In other words, it’s meant to encourage the helping of others without the expectation of any reward – monetary, praise, or otherwise. This proverb feels pretty universal in its applicability – although the participant has been told the saying in Spanish, the main message of selflessness transcends language.

Character is what you are in the dark 

Age: 59
Language: English

Text: Character is what you are in the dark 

Context: The participant believes he heard this saying on a show (“Buckaroo Banzai”) while he was in college. In the show, the main antagonist is addressing his followers (who are aliens) in a speech, and recites this phrase while trying to rouse them to work harder so that they can all return to their planet. Despite the fictional context of the show, the participant found great importance in truly considering and adhering to this phrase. It is a phrase he says he uses frequently to hold people responsible for their actions – in arguments, critiques, or even in jest.      

Analysis: This saying refers to one’s actions, and how they are a reflection of their true personality or character. It alludes to how your actions – even when performed in “the dark” or out of public view – are seen as a testament to the kind of person you are. Even though one might say they have good intentions, this categorization is wholly performative; one’s character can only truly be measured by what they do when no one is around to see. This proverb is very similar to others that speak to moral qualities and character such as “Actions speak louder than words”. By grappling with this idea of conscience and character, this saying should be taken as encouraging good behavior and morals even if one is not in public or being rewarded for doing so.

“Don’t be sad that it’s over, be glad that it happened”

Nationality: American
Age: 18
Occupation: College Student
Residence: Chicago
Language: English

Text:

“Don’t be sad that it’s over, be glad that it happened”.

Context:

The informant’s mother would say it when she was upset or sad when something was over; this reminded her to stay present in the moment. The informant states that this quote helps acknowledge that nostalgia is a gift in our lives.

Analysis:

From my perspective I see this proverb similarly. Although one may focus on the past it’s important to take a step forward and focus on the present and what’s to come in the future, as you can’t always live in the past. You may cherish the past but also remember to enjoy the present. This reminds me of “friend of a friend” as this was a belief that the informant learned from their mother and now uses it in their life.

“Treat others the way you want to be treated”

Nationality: American
Age: 19
Occupation: College Student
Residence: Bay Area
Language: English

Text:

“Treat others the way you want to be treated”.

Context:

It’s a common saying that the informant has heard many times throughout their childhood. Whether it was through fights in middle school or other things that may have caused this phrase to be said which then helped resolve the issues. They see this as a good mantra to have in your mind because it gives you a good attitude and positive mindset with friendships.

Analysis:

I have also grown up following this proverb, I was taught this in elementary school, it was called The Golden Rule. It’s important because it helps for you to respect people but also for others to respect you. The phrase emphasizes how being respectful goes both ways, it’s not one sided. This proverb is found throughout the world which has caused it to have a specific name.

“Don’t bite the hand that feeds you”

Nationality: American
Age: 19
Occupation: College Student
Residence: Bay Area
Language: English

Title:

“Don’t bite the hand that feeds you”.

Context:

It’s to appreciate your family because family is the most important thing in your life. The phrase comes from disrespecting your parents or when the informant got in fights with his mom. But it makes you realize that she does so much for you and to be grateful.

Analysis:

I also interpret this in a similar way but in more of a broad perspective. I see this as being grateful for anyone that has helped you in life whether it may be during an obstacle you encounter or just everyday life. Don’t forget about those who have helped you along the way and not act unappreciative towards them. This quote is a proverb due to the fact that it is a metaphor.