Texting Africa: Writing as performance. (7th September 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Deumert, Ana; Lexander, Kristin Vold
• Is Part Of: Journal of sociolinguistics. Volume 17:Number 4(2013:Sep.)
• Page Start: 522
• Page End: 546
• Publication Date: 2013-09-07
• Subjects: Texting -- Africa -- intimacy -- (non‐standard) spelling -- performance -- multilingualism; Sociolinguistics -- Periodicals; 306.4405
• DOI: 10.1111/josl.12043
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-6441

Abstract

Abstract : This paper discusses African multilingual digital writing, focusing on one digital genre: texting. Our analysis draws on quantitative and qualitative data from five highly multilingual African countries: Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal and South Africa. Writers are shown to draw on local as well as global linguistic resources in crafting their messages. Being a good texter requires the performance of 'textual linguistic dexterity': the ability to articulate meaning through the skillful use of both global and local forms. Good texters are valued by their audiences not only for the speed with which they reply, but also their ability to 'play with words'. The quantitative data shows such practices to be widespread, while the qualitative data allows us to understand writers' motivations and underlying linguistics ideologies. Texting is frequently used in intimate interactions, especially for expressions of love, affection and attraction. Through the juxtaposition of linguistic material, and drawing on the social meanings of different resources within their multilingual repertoires, writers are able to project particular personae and to negotiate various forms of emotional attachment.