Toasted English — R.K. Narayan | Essay | Theme | English Notes

Toasted English — R.K. Narayan | Essay | Theme | English Notes

"Toasted English" is a well-known essay by R.K Narayan. He is one of the best Indian novelists in English. He has published more than ten novels and short stories. His works have been translated into many Indian and European Languages. His famous works include :

Toasted English — R.K. Narayan | Essay | Theme | English Notes

• The Guide
• The English Teacher
• A Tiger for Malgudi

Narayan is known for his simple language and realistic characters. “Toasted English” is a half-humorous, half-serious essay about how the same language English differs from one country to another.

In the essay, the difference between American and British English has been shown in an amusing way. The author tells that like Indians, Americans also drove the British out of their country but adopted English. The Americans used the English Language in an easy way and left the use of passive voice. They also gave up formalism and used certain keywords for their convenience.

This process of modifying English is called “Toasting”. For e.g Instead of “Trespassing Prohibited”, they say ‘Newly Planted, don’t walk' on the notice board. The new words became very handy because they could be used for multiple meanings.

‘Ok’, ‘Yeah’, and ‘Yes’, are more commonly used expressions. Narayan mentions the Example of the word “Check” which may safely be labeled the American National Expression. While The British uses this word according to the definitions, the American uses it anywhere. I’ll check means I’ll find out, examine verify. ‘Your check’ means your ticket, token ‘Check girl’ is one who takes care of your coat, umbrella, or anything you have.

Further R.K. Narayan discusses the bazaar status of English. It is used in a polite way in London. The conductor will never say, “Ticket, Ticket on a London bus, but simply go near the passenger and say, “Thank you” on receiving the fare and issuing the ticket also. We have no need to use ‘Yes Sir, ‘yes darling’ with the words yes. The words yes, okay are self-sufficient word that needs no suffix to show any special respect. “Yeah” seals the sentence without any fuss to continue the dialogue or conversation. ‘Yeah’ is spoken in a short-base of tongue grant.

R.K. Narayan feels that the time has come when English should come out in the open in dusty streets and become the language of the common man. Like Americans, it should also adapt according to the Indian needs and atmosphere. He does not want the mongrelization of English. Grammatical rules should have remained the same. Like ‘Toasted English, India should develop a Bharat brand of English. One should not have to think before speaking. The author wants that Indian English should have its own identity- its “Swadeshi Stamp”. It should be unique and distinct from the present English.

Important Questions and Answers - Important FAQs

Q: What is "Toasted English"? A: "Toasted English" is an essay written by R.K. Narayan, an acclaimed Indian author. It explores the theme of English education and its impact on Indian society. Q: Who is R.K. Narayan? A: R.K. Narayan, full name Rasipuram Krishnaswami Iyer Narayanaswami, was an Indian writer known for his novels and short stories set in the fictional town of Malgudi. He is considered one of the leading figures in Indian literature in English. Q: What is the essay "Toasted English" about? A: "Toasted English" examines the influence of English education on Indian society, particularly its effect on the Indian mindset and cultural identity. Narayan discusses the dominance of the English language and its impact on the aspirations and attitudes of the Indian people. Q: Where can I read the essay "Toasted English"? A: You can read the essay "Toasted English" by R.K. Narayan on the website "True Blue Guide" at the following link: [insert link here] Q: When was the essay "Toasted English" published? A: The publication date of the essay "Toasted English" is not explicitly mentioned in the provided link. However, R.K. Narayan's works were primarily written in the mid-20th century. Q: What is the main theme of "Toasted English"? A: The main theme of "Toasted English" revolves around the influence of English education on Indian society, the impact it has on the Indian mindset, and the cultural implications of English dominance. Q: How long is the essay "Toasted English"? A: The length of the essay "Toasted English" is not specified in the provided link. It may vary depending on the edition or publication. Q: Is "Toasted English" a fictional or non-fictional piece? A: "Toasted English" is a non-fictional piece. It is an essay that reflects R.K. Narayan's thoughts and opinions on the topic of English education in India. Q: What is the significance of the title "Toasted English"? A: The title "Toasted English" suggests the idea of English education being assimilated or "toasted" into Indian society. It hints at the blending of English language and culture with Indian values and traditions. Q: Are there any other notable works by R.K. Narayan? A: Yes, R.K. Narayan has written several notable works, including novels like "Swami and Friends," "The Guide," and "The English Teacher." He is also known for his short story collections, such as "Malgudi Days."