Phó Giáo Sư John Phan Và Hành Trình Tìm Về Chữ Nôm

In a world where the dominance of languages like Mandarin and English is ever-expanding, there are individuals who strive to preserve and explore the rich tapestry of ancient tongues. Among them is John Phang, a remarkable linguist on a quest to rediscover the beauty of the Vietnamese language. As we embark on this journey with John, born in 1980 in the United States and now an associate professor at Columbia University in New York, specializing in East Asian languages and cultures, we'll uncover the hidden gems of the Vietnamese language.

The Quest for Identity and Culture

Growing up in the United States, John had limited opportunities to learn about Vietnamese culture and history. He recalls his university days, yearning to delve into the intricacies of Vietnam but finding few courses that focused solely on this rich culture. Fueled by this desire to understand his heritage, John set out on a mission to explore the treasures concealed within the Vietnamese language.

What he discovered was astonishing – the Vietnamese culture and literature were exceptionally diverse and rich, far more than what one might find in other Asian studies. While Chinese and Japanese studies have flourished, the spotlight on Vietnam's cultural richness seemed dim in comparison. John felt compelled to bridge this gap and share the multifaceted culture of Vietnam with the world.

The Journey to Revive Nôm Script

A pivotal moment in John's journey was his encounter with the Nôm script. Nôm is an ancient Vietnamese script that radically transformed the structure and vocabulary of the Vietnamese language. It emerged from a process of translating classical Chinese literature into Vietnamese, employing a unique system of characters known as chữ Nôm.

For John, delving into the ancient Nôm script was no easy feat, especially considering his upbringing in the U.S. However, he received invaluable guidance from numerous experts in Hán Nôm (the Vietnamese script derived from classical Chinese) both within and outside Vietnam. These mentors played a crucial role in his exploration of Nôm and the treasures it held.

Embracing the Vietnamese Roots

Humbling as it was, the journey to learn the Vietnamese language often came with a sense of embarrassment. For many second-generation immigrants born in foreign lands, mastering their native language can be an ongoing challenge. John recognizes the stigma surrounding this issue but emphasizes that learning Vietnamese is not just about eradicating that embarrassment. It is an essential step towards unlocking the depths of Vietnamese culture.

John's path to exploring the ancient Vietnamese language might not be the easiest route, but it is undoubtedly a rewarding one. It enables him to unearth the profound richness and diversity of Vietnamese culture. The embarrassment he once felt about his language skills has transformed into a deep appreciation for the multifaceted tapestry that is the Vietnamese heritage.

Sharing the Richness of Vietnamese Culture

John Phang's mission extends beyond personal enrichment. He aims to share his discoveries with the world by translating Nôm works into English. Vietnam's literary world is vast and brimming with unexplored treasures. While older generations of scholars have translated many classic Vietnamese works, there are countless more waiting to be introduced to the global stage.

The history of Vietnamese linguistics plays an integral role in preserving the country's heritage, and John is determined to contribute to this cause. As he continues his journey, he hopes to create a Nôm language class for enthusiasts who wish to explore their cultural roots.

In a world where diversity and cultural appreciation are paramount, John Phang's relentless pursuit of the Vietnamese language is not only commendable but essential. It's a journey that showcases the beauty and depth of a language and culture that deserves its place in the global spotlight.

John Fan, or Dương Phan in Vietnamese, is a testament to the power of language and the drive to reconnect with one's roots. In his pursuit, he reminds us that sometimes, the most extraordinary adventures begin with embracing one's heritage, even if it means mastering a language that once brought feelings of embarrassment.