ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the idea that language is a transparent medium. It helps the reader to see the role of language in constructing a sense of 'reality'. The chapter explores connections between language, thought and discourse. Any work of discourse analysis needs to start from an examination of what is 'silently taken for granted' in language use. Berger and Luckmann saw the power of language as residing in its very unexamined ordinariness: It is important to stress that the greater part of reality-maintenance is implicit, not explicit. Eva Hoffman's experiences, and her ability to articulate the issues involved in trying to move between cultures and languages, are clearly unusual. Similar ideas can be expressed in another language but may have to be described in some very longwinded ways. No two languages are ever sufficiently similar to be considered as representing the same social reality.
