Mother Tongue

English is considered the primary language spoken in America. However even though America was settled by immigrants that speak other languages, the culture of power keeps white educated English the only form of English we should strive to learn. 

In her argument Tan includes a quote for her mother. This is a great example of the other forms of spoken English. It would not have the same effect if it were paraphrased. The English in the quote was not the standard English spoken by white educated people. Therefore, it is a great example for the argument that thisenglish is imperfect. It is still language. It's her mother's tongue and the English she grew up with. She is limited by the culture of power because that form of English is a "setback" in life. 

Tan critices herself in the essay because she wants to show how her English has improved over the years. The English that her mother spoke at home limited her opportunities in he world and her scores on standardized tests and English grades in school. Her argument is that we need to start accepting other forms of English as English. Once we do this, we will end he culture of power and prejudice towards immigrants.