Spanish is the language of Chile, as it is of all South American
countries, except Brazil, but in Chile it has taken on idioms until it
differs in many particulars from the pure Castilian. Like all Latin
languages it lends itself to elaborate speech, pleasing compliment,
plentiful platitude, vague and uncertain meaning and is a charming
means for the exchange of polite pleasantries. It possesses qualities
that commend it especially for diplomatic usage, as the ordinary
sentence, written or verbally expressed, can be construed to mean one
thing or another to suit the desire or convenience of the person giving
it utterance. These qualities, however, render it unsatisfactory as a
commercial language, which should be direct and definite in meaning.
Perhaps no other language is so easily acquired by foreigners, and none
is more beautiful and attractive when correctly spoken and properly
enunciated than Spanish. There are no silent letters, and each word
is pronounced as it is spelled. The verbs are irregular, but once the
rules of grammar are learned, it is a matter of comparative ease to
acquire facility of speech.
The Chilenos, like all Spanish speaking people, emphasize all verbal
expressions with elaborate gestures. Their gesticulations are graceful,
and instead of being objectionable, are attractive. They are born
orators, and the average Chileno can deliver a most effective speech
on any and all occasions, on short notice or with small provocation.
Even small boys will harangue a crowd with well-chosen words formed
into beautiful sentences, and delivered with splendid oratorical
effect. This is true in the larger sense also, and the speeches
delivered on public occasions, and in the legislative halls are as a
rule excellent examples of the art of oratory. The meaning is often
vague, and the language ambiguous, but the diction good. A speech
delivered in Spanish in a well modulated voice, emphasized with
sweeping and graceful gestures, is both pleasing and dramatic in effect.
In Valparaiso, the principal port and commercial city in the Republic,
English is more generally used in the transaction of business than any
other language, Spanish not excepted.