An Atikamekw Language Lesson

Lucien Ottawa
March 30, 2011
Manawan

"Onimiski is like thunder, electric current or lightning."

Lucien Ottawa, Nehirowisiw

Each language has its own vocabulary and unique way of arranging words to describe people or situations, to express ideas or emotions. The Atikamekw's is very colourful. It can name the Earth this "ember from a burst of sunlight", and the train, the "vehicle driven by fire". In one word, it can identify a man, his profession and his condition, but it requires many letters. It takes 32 to designate the "deceased bad little electrician", but everyone in the community knows who we’re talking about!