LANGUAGE: THE FIRST TECHNOLOGY

   

 Every day we hear about “new technologies,” nuevas tecnologías—e-mail, mobile phones, AI, instant communication. I use them gratefully.
    From Madrid, I can consult the Library of Congress, read an 1890 newspaper, send a manuscript in seconds, or access media from across the ocean. Everything is at my fingertips.
    Yet technology is nothing new. Fire, the wheel, writing, the printing press—humanity has always advanced through it. Only the speed has changed.
    One tool, however, remains supreme: Language.
    It lets us communicate, preserve knowledge, persuade, sell, and connect. It is the technology behind all technologies.
    You cannot buy it or download it. You must build it. Success depends on it: vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, comprehension.
    What is the best English or Spanish? The one that is understood. Nothing more.
    Those who master both languages belong to a fortunate minority.
    A few reminders:
    Be understood at once—polish your accent.
    Read: vocabulary is culture.
    Speak slowly and clearly.
    Never claim perfection—there is none.