I have grown up in a Chinese English Bilingual community for most of my childhood. I take bilingual math and social science courses in school, even though my family is originally from India and my parents do not speak Mandarin.

​

As such, I’ve had a unique opportunity to read – to a certain degree of sophistication – in both English and Chinese. Even through the topics were far from cultural, Chinese books still resonated differently from English ones. Not only in the semantics or language structure, but also in the ways the authors approached the topics. For example, in fiction books, Chinese authors strive to develop a mood or atmosphere, following a less linear plot-line. In contrast, English authors are more focused on developing a narrative line and detailed characters. Even at a more detailed, word-by-word level, bilingual reading allows readers to appreciate the differences. Many idioms or phrases in Chinese are derived from Classical Chinese literature, and have no equivalent in English, such as the Chengyu 画蛇添足.These phrases would have lost their significant relation to Chinese culture if translated into English, thereby being lost on English readers. 

​

In this way, bilingual reading gives students an understanding of the original culture (in my case Chinese culture), without the impairments of translation. Subtle cultural nuances are no longer lost on the reader. 

​

Most importantly, this understanding is reflected in their actions. Research has shown that bilingual learners are more likely to appreciate different cultures. They are also better at adapting to certain situations with cultural norms in mind (National Institute of Health, 2021). Having the opportunity to immerse myself into the Chinese culture, writing, speaking, listening to and reading Chinese, was crucial. This multicultural understanding has helped me unlock new avenues and passion in my life, such as participating in a Chinese Speaking Competition in Shenzhen. 

Indeed, in today’s increasingly polarised world, bilingual learning is becoming ever more coveted and important. The potential for bilingual agents and bilingual publishing in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and bridging gaps is growing. For example, the numerous cross-culture committees, increased bilingual teaching in school, and increasing publications of bilingual books, all indicate the importance of bilingual learning today. 

​

Bilingual learning is more than just learning two languages. Its about learning the intricacies of two cultures. Its about using that understanding to see the world from two different perspectives; and to use those perspectives to make better choices. Especially with the backdrop of current world events, the importance of this cannot be overstated.