HAGS!

Age: 20

Date of Performance: 2/13/2025

Language: English

Nationality: American

Occupation: Student

Primary Language: English

Residence: United States

  1. Text

The informant is a sophomore student at USC, who is studying Public Relations. She quoted a minor genre saying of “HAGS” that she used to write in yearbooks.

2. Context

“In yearbooks, everyone would write ‘HAGS.’ I did it a lot, it means, ‘have a good summer.’ It was for friends, teachers, but it was bigger in elementary school and middle school I feel like.”

3. Analysis

The reference of the informant to the tradition being larger in elementary school than middle school is reflective of the proverb’s reflection of youthful values. “HAGS” is a casual saying exchanged between peers to represent camaraderie and encourage optimism for the future. Summer is a traditional celebration for school-aged children, and HAGS aligns with that value for students. Additionally, yearbooks are a tradition for many students and a measure of friendships between peers.