In a world where globalization often threatens the uniqueness of local cultures, one man's passion for language is helping to preserve the distinct heritage of Shanghai's dialects. Federico Demarco, a native of Argentina, has taken on a mission that surprises even the locals: mastering the Shanghai dialect and contributing to its preservation. This journey, which began as an academic pursuit, has transformed into a deep connection with the culture and people of Shanghai, making him an unexpected ambassador for a language at risk of fading away.
Discovering Shanghai Through Language
Federico Demarco's introduction to the Shanghai dialect, or "Shanghainese," wasn't just a scholarly endeavour; it was personal. After moving to Shanghai in 2018, Demarco found himself increasingly drawn to the city's rich linguistic heritage. His journey into Shanghainese was sparked by his marriage to a local family, where speaking the local dialect became not just a way to communicate but a means of truly belonging. Learning the language became a bridge to connect with his new family, particularly his mother-in-law, with whom he found greater ease of communication in Shanghainese.
What started as a familial necessity quickly evolved into a scholarly obsession. Demarco began to explore the nuances of Shanghainese, diving into its unique phonetics, vocabulary, and syntax. His dedication to the language led him to Shanghai University, where he pursued a master's degree in linguistics, focusing on the lesser-known suburban dialects of Shanghai, such as those spoken in Jinshan (金山) and Chongming (崇明).
A Foreign Voice in Local Discourse
During this year's Shanghai Book Fair, Demarco's expertise was showcased at a reading session for the "Shanghai Dialect Series" organized by Shanghai University Press. The event, held at the iconic Shanghai Exhibition Center, brought together linguistic experts and enthusiasts, including Demarco, whose fluency in Shanghainese has earned him respect and admiration among locals.
At the event, Demarco's humorous recounting of his journey in learning Shanghainese, especially his motivation to communicate better with his mother-in-law, resonated with the audience. His ability to speak the dialect fluently not only surprised but also inspired many attendees. Demarco's participation in the event as a foreign scholar speaking Shanghainese was a powerful reminder of the language's cultural significance and the importance of its preservation.
Demarco's contributions to the understanding and preservation of Shanghai's dialects extend beyond public speaking. His academic research involves extensive fieldwork, often taking him to the outskirts of Shanghai, where he interviews elderly residents fluent in the local dialects of Jinshan and other suburban areas. These dialects, distinct from the more widely spoken urban Shanghainese, are rich in cultural history but are increasingly endangered as younger generations adopt Mandarin as their primary language.
Despite the challenges, Demarco's work has garnered attention and support from both academic and local communities. His dedication is particularly noteworthy because it comes from a foreigner—a perspective that has added a unique dimension to the ongoing discourse on language preservation in Shanghai. Demarco has collaborated with local scholars to develop an online platform, "Wu Language School (吴语学堂)," which serves as a free resource for anyone interested in learning the various dialects within the Wu language family, which includes Shanghainese.
A deep appreciation for the cultural significance of language drives Demarco's work. He understands that dialects like Shanghainese are more than just means of communication; they are repositories of history, culture, and identity. By documenting and studying these dialects, Demarco is helping to ensure that future generations can access this cultural treasure.
A Scholar's Commitment
As he prepares for his next academic pursuit—a PhD focusing on further research into Shanghai's dialects—Demarco continues to contribute to the cultural life of Shanghai. He recently completed a draft of a book that records his field research on the Jinshan dialect, which he plans to publish by the end of the year. The book, which includes detailed analyses of phonetics, vocabulary, and grammar, aims to provide a comprehensive resource for scholars and language enthusiasts alike.
Demarco's story is a testament to the power of language as a bridge between cultures. His work not only preserves the linguistic heritage of Shanghai but also fosters greater understanding and appreciation among its residents. In a city where rapid modernization often overshadows traditional culture, Demarco's efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding the past while embracing the future.
As Shanghai continues to evolve, so too does the role of its dialects. Thanks to the work of passionate individuals like Federico Demarco, the Shanghainese language, along with its suburban counterparts, is finding new life and relevance in the 21st century.
