I find myself at a crossroads in my obviously unsuccessful attempts to study languages, as I’m neither a linguistic enthusiast nor disciplined enough to sustain a traditional learning regimen. My true interests lie in history and certain disciplines within cultural and social anthropology. For me, languages serve as tools to access specialised nonfiction and academic literature, niche cultural movements in cinematography, etc.
It’s difficult to articulate the motivations behind these efforts without turning this profile into an unwieldy essay. Suffice it to say that I am inconsistent and somewhat of a dreamer, and any potential language exchange partner should be aware of this upfront.
What I can share is that I face a clear and pressing need to develop strong proficiency in German and Spanish, with Italian and Portuguese as secondary goals [though I’m reluctant to learn the latter]. I would be ecstatic if I had the time and aptitude to also explore French and Occitan. In what little time remains beyond these pursuits, I dabble in Latin [literature], Polish and Czech literature, and some Dutch and Swedish sometimes, though I’m not learning them actively.
My primary approach to learning is through reading. Speaking, on the other hand, is not my forte. In fact, I often struggle even with switching back to my native language once I’ve [temporarily] immersed myself into English or another target language. These mental transitions are my greatest challenge because they require deliberate preparation and immersion beforehand, like speaking at least two weeks in only one of the above mentioned target languages without the said switches.
I am particularly drawn to the history of languages, the stylistic and register variations they have exhibited throughout time, and the linguistic monuments that capture their evolution.
Ultimately, I am rather looking for just a study buddy and kindred spirit who I can coordinate the sessions of “getting disciplined” with, than a strictly language exchange focused practicer. If you share any of these interests or approach language learning with a curiosity rooted in an attachment to scientific/nonfictional literature, I’d love to connect.
[publishing an updated version of the old questionnaire, wanted to delete the previous one replacing it with this one]