“English Is Just Like an Outer Shell”: A Case Study of a Multilingual Indian Family in Tokyo

Abstract: This case study examines the reported language practices of a 13-year-old boy and his father from Kerala, India, living in Tokyo, as well as the meanings associated with Malayalam, English and Japanese. Methodologically, the data were generated through a language portrait produced by the child and separate semi-structured interviews with the child and his father. The study analyses how these languages are used, positioned, and given meaning in everyday life. The analysis shows that Malayalam, his first language, is represented as the most emotionally grounded language, although its use is limited to within the family and the Malayali community. It is closely associated with family, Malayali identity, and belonging. His father’s account similarly connects Malayalam with roots. English is used frequently at school and in other social settings. However, it is positioned as a more external language, described as “like an outer shell”. Japanese is positioned mainly as a language of local participation and mediation. The findings suggest that meanings associated with languages cannot be understood simply through their frequency or range of use. This case also highlights the complementary value of interpreting a language portrait together with oral explanation and interview data.