Speechless II: Key Quotes

Language Use

The poem uses jargon related to computational and programming language, underscoring the speaker’s feeling of disconnectedness.
Many readers, particularly those not familiar with this jargon, may be left feeling alienated, much like the speaker feels.
Numerous metaphors are employed throughout the poem, especially those related to technology and computers, further illustrating the speaker’s inability to articulate themselves.
There is the consistent use of phonetic spelling to portray the unique language use of the speaker, giving a more realistic and authentic voice to the character.

Themes and Motifs

A recurring theme within “Speechless II” is communication difficulties, especially regarding expressing oneself and establishing emotional connections.
The speaker feels isolated and unable to connect or communicate in the ways that they’d like, which is an ongoing theme throughout the poem.
The motif of technology, effectively used as a metaphor throughout, alludes to the difficulties in human communication and relationships, highlighting the speaker’s longing for straightforwardness, similar to technical codes.
Miscommunication is also a repeated motif, coupled with frustrations of understanding and acceptance, revealing the complexity of language and communication beyond mere words.

Cultural Identity and Code-Switching

The poem showcases how the speaker struggles to balance his unique cultural background with the wider societal norms - code-switching is both a tool and a burden.
Themes of attempting to conform yet maintaining individuality are also prevalent, reflecting the speaker’s struggle with bi-cultural identity.
“Speechless II” explores the significance of language in constructing and expressing one’s cultural identity.

Key Quotes

“I was well versed in BASIC by the time I was ten” - demonstrates the speaker’s early skill and affinity with computer languages and distancing from human connection.
“it’s not like there’s a manual for this kinda thing… or maybe there is…” - reveals the speaker’s struggle to understand social norms, hinting at a wish for explicit guidelines.
“I learned to keep quiet” - the poignant ending encapsulates the speaker’s feeling of defeat and submission to societal instincts rather than embracing their own unique identity.

Note: The points listed above help highlight the intricate relationship between language, cultural identity, and communication demonstrated in “Speechless II” as well as other Jacob Sam-La Rose’s works. The struggle for identity assertion amidst societal pressures, the richness of linguistic diversity, and the frustrations coming from miscommunication are beautifully yet distressingly illustrated in this composition.