Why you should learn Welsh
I’ve made several posts already about the Welsh language, but I’m only now realising that many people who see my posts might think “Okay, but why would you want to learn Welsh?”, so I decided it might be a good idea to post about why I personally believe Welsh is a language people should learn!
1. It’s a minority language
Some people are particularly interested in learning minority languages and trying to keep them alive or to help increase the number of speakers. This means that some of you might be interested in Welsh!
2. It’s not as hard as you might think!
Welsh has a reputation for being pretty difficult to speak because things like of place names such as Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyndrobwllllantisiliogogogoch. People often think it’s full of long and overcomplicated words. The truth is, this place name was just made up for tourism, and the Welsh language is actually a lot simpler than people expect. For starters, it’s a phonetic language where all letters make only one sound each (with the exception of y). Also, the grammar isn’t more complex than any other language’s grammar
3. Welsh identity
If you’re Welsh and don’t speak Welsh fluently (like me), or even at all, it might be worth considering learning the language. While I know for many of us learning Welsh in school was a major drag, learning Welsh by choice is very different. Choosing to learn our language for myself made me embrace my identity and feel proud of where I come from for perhaps the first time in my life. Particularly if you feel lost with your identity, I highly recommend at least dipping your toes into the duolingo course and seeing how you feel about learning Welsh before dismissing the prospect.
4. It’s a Celtic language
Lots of people who are interested in Celtic cultures decide on Irish, which is great, but this means that the 5 other living Celtic languages (Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Cornish, Breton and Manx) are often forgotten about in those with an interest in the Celtic languages. If you have an interest in all things Celtic, but want to approach it in a way that’s different from the usual Irish route, Welsh is definitely another great option for that
5. Welsh is tied to a unique history and culture
By choosing to learn Welsh, you also choose to open yourself up to our fascinating history, alongside beautiful folktales, mythological beliefs and traditions. Learning Welsh would also allow you to experience some of these significant cultural things from a whole new perspective
6. Music and literature
I suppose this is somewhat connected to my previous point, but Welsh music has somewhat of a reputation (at least across the UK) for its beauty, particularly traditional choral pieces (which has even caused a rumour that we all sing like angels that I sadly must admit is not true). Similarly, our literature (particularly poetry) is well known for being of a very high standard. Speaking Welsh would not only allow you to access more of this music and literature, but also to appreciate the meaning behind it and understand our celebrations of our arts in celebrations like the Eisteddfodau.
Of course, at the end of the day it’s up to you whether or not to study Welsh, but please know that we are welcoming to people learning our language whether you’re from Wales or not. The community of Welsh speakers is growing, and I cannot express how happy this makes me. If you want to join us in learning this beautiful language, we will welcome you with open arms.
Cymru am byth
