A Bavarian headmaster has criticized Deutsche Bahn by pointing out its casual neglect of local language sentiments. “Too much of English” is bad for our tracks, he says.
He complains of local difficulties in understanding and interpreting words and phrases in display in English at stations, and recommends more Germanization of railway terminology. The suggestion is that a local passenger enjoys the right to read the signs and instructions in his/ her native tongue.
However, this change of language is not to be applied at the expense of tourists’ accessibility to information. It doesn’t deter their comfort either. At least in places where the foreign visitors come in large numbers, they would still be able to exercise their freedom of choice and read in their own preferred language. That means, in all likelihood, English would co-exist with German in such places.
It is glad news that the Deutsche Bahn now posesses the vision and initiative for revamping the system. The company will remove all barriers and add multiple options to lend credence to its impartial service. They have their best intentions to assist both locals and foreigners at the same time and avoid unpleasant criticism.
We need to respect the local preference and inclination for German. Furthermore, if we really go deeper into it, we will find the genuine urges behind this awakening. One's first language has its profound significance and psychological value. It's that unexplainable devotion to mother tongue.
As far as I can see, I take this a very constructive and dynamic view. I hope the 'global communication link' will be made stronger and better.
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