Some Problems

Te Ao Hou, September 1964, Page 46

Some Problems Because of local variations in idiomatic expression, in vocabulary and in the pronunciation of some words, some teachers argue that there is no such thing as standard Maori. On what basis then do we correct translation and essay work? Do we base standards on the revised Maori Bible, Grey's ‘Nga Mahi a nga Tupuna’, Ngata's ‘Maori Grammar and Conversation’, or the Maori that is spoken by the Maori elders of the district? I would recommend the Maori Bible, and in conjunction with it the correct idiomatic language of local elders. Some argue too that far too many transliterations are being included in Maori speech —that the Maori which ought to be spoken is ‘pure’ Maori. ‘Pure’ Maori as such can only be spoken on the marae or on ceremonial occasions where the language is formal and highly specialised. It must be realised that Maori as a living language must undergo change; some words are borrowed and others become obsolete. It is relevant too to mention the contentious point regarding the marking of long vowels, either by the use of the macron, or by doubling the letter. Some advocate that they be not marked at all, as for example in the revised Maori Bible. I do believe that for beginners and for those whose knowledge of written Maori is marginal indeed, the marking of long vowels is an important and convenient teaching aid. Of the two methods I prefer the use of the macron. Once greater facility in the use of the language is achieved, the macron can be dispensed with.