1. What’s your story? How did you get into all these languages?

When I was five years old, the world I knew shifted dramatically. My mother, who had always been the guiding force in my life, became blind. Suddenly, communication changed. It wasn’t just about words anymore; it was about touch, texture, and alternative ways of seeing the world. This is when I encountered Braille, not a language, but a way of communication that opened my young mind to the endless possibilities of human expression. I vividly remember running my small fingers over the raised dots, fascinated by the idea that this simple, tactile system could convey meaning without sight. For a child, this was magical—a secret code that allowed me to speak to my mother in a completely new way. Little did I know, this experience would lay the foundation for a lifelong fascination with languages and the alternative ways we communicate.

Braille was my first step into this world of alternative communication, and it ignited a curiosity that never left me. I began to wonder how many different ways there were to communicate beyond just what I saw and heard around me. This curiosity led me, over the years, to a journey through various languages, each one opening new doors, revealing new worlds, and offering different ways to see life.

Languages have since become not only my passion but also my job. I am currently Distinguished Professor (特聘教授) at the School of Foreign Studies (SFS) at Tongji University (同濟大學外國語學院), where I also serve as the Director of the International Center for Intercultural Studies (ICIS). In addition, I am the Deputy Director of the Research Center for Chinese Discourse and Global Communication. I’m proud to be a member of AIIC (the International Association of Conference Interpreters), a member of Assointerpreti, an Honorary Member of Associação de Tradutores de Macau, and an expert member of the Translators Association of China (TAC). Before joining Tongji University, I was Full Professor of Chinese translation and interpreting at Shanghai International Studies University. In my professional journey, I’ve also earned the title of Chartered Linguist and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Linguists (FCIL). I have published extensively in the fields of translation and interpreting studies and Chinese literature, making these subjects the core of my academic and professional endeavors.

What started as a simple yet profound encounter with Braille has since blossomed into a life filled with languages, cultures, and the endless exploration of new ways to communicate. Every language I learn is like unlocking a new dimension, a secret garden where each word, phrase, and cultural nuance opens up infinite possibilities.

Among all the languages I’ve learned, Chinese holds a special place in my heart. It wasn’t just the beauty of the characters or the tonal complexity that drew me in—it was the way the language opened up a new cultural dimension for me. Learning Chinese gave me an incredible opportunity: I became the first foreigner to host a television show in Taiwan about Chinese characters. The show was not just a linguistic exercise, but a deep dive into the cultural and historical significance of the characters, each stroke imbued with centuries of meaning. The opportunity to connect with a Chinese-speaking audience at such an intimate level was a transformative experience. It wasn’t just about mastering a language; it was about becoming part of a culture and helping others see the beauty of their own language in a new light.

Adding to this joy, I also had the privilege of being the only Westerner to have authored two books entirely in Chinese. One of these, titled 沒在怕！有話直說的勇氣, was published in Taiwan in 2016, while the other, 譯朵看不見的花, was released in the Chinese mainland this year. Writing these books not only allowed me to express my thoughts and experiences in Chinese but also deepened my understanding of the language and its intricacies. Each word and phrase became a bridge connecting me to Chinese culture, further solidifying my appreciation for this beautiful language.

2. Which language(s) do you wish you could spend more time practising?

I wish I could spend more time practicing Slavic languages because they are relatively new to me, and anything new is always permeated with secrets to unveil. There is an exotic allure to the unfamiliar sounds and structures, making them intriguing and full of discovery. I also wish I could dedicate more time to Tagalog. Its complex verbal system, filled with infixes and other grammatical intricacies, presents a challenge that I find fascinating and deeply rewarding.

3. What are some languages you’d like to learn in the future?

In the future, I would love to bring my A1 and A2 languages to at least a B2 level. This includes Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Tagalog, Serbo-Croatian, German, Bulgarian, and Greek. Strengthening these languages would open up even more doors for deeper communication and understanding of their unique cultures.

4. So let’s be honest, what’s the sexiest language?

Well, I’m Italian—need to ask? Of course, Italian has that effortless charm! Also, Italian movies are the most pleasant to listen to, thanks to the impeccable quality and the sexy voices of Italian dubbers. But joking aside, I find Brazilian Portuguese to be a perfect mix of sexy and funny. There is something about the Carioca accent that just makes everything sound like a dance, even when you’re talking about the most mundane things!

5. What’s the greatest pleasure you get from speaking so many languages?

The greatest pleasure I derive from speaking multiple languages lies in the profound connections I can forge with people from diverse backgrounds. Each language opens up a unique cultural landscape, allowing me to experience different perspectives, stories, and traditions. Whether it's sharing a laugh with a friend in Portuguese, discussing literature in Chinese, or enjoying a heartfelt conversation in Italian, these interactions enrich my life in ways that transcend mere words. Additionally, there's a deep sense of fulfillment in decoding the nuances of each language—the idioms, the humor, and the emotional subtleties that might be lost in translation. It’s like unlocking a treasure chest filled with vibrant expressions and ideas that enhance my understanding of the world. Moreover, the ability to navigate different languages gives me a sense of freedom and adaptability. It allows me to explore various communities and cultures more authentically, whether I’m traveling or engaging with people in my own neighborhood. Ultimately, the joy of speaking many languages is about building bridges and celebrating the beauty of human communication in all its forms!

Yet, the most exhilarating joy for me comes from the realization that with every new language I learn, I increase my chances of discovering that perfect friend who might be waiting for me somewhere in the world. Each language is like a key, unlocking potential friendships and connections that span cultures and continents. Imagine the thrill of sharing laughter over a cup of coffee (or rather tea in my case) in a bustling café in Paris while conversing in French, or bonding with someone on a remote island while speaking Indonesian. The possibility of forming deep, meaningful relationships with people I might never have encountered otherwise adds a layer of excitement to my language-learning journey. It’s not just about being able to communicate; it’s about the shared experiences, the moments of understanding, and the emotional connections that language facilitates. Each language opens up a new realm of cultural nuances, traditions, and values, enriching my interactions and making them more profound. Moreover, this quest for connection drives my passion for languages. Knowing that a single conversation in a foreign language could lead to a lifelong friendship inspires me to keep learning and exploring. Ultimately, it’s the hope of finding that special person—someone who resonates with my thoughts, experiences, and dreams—that makes every lesson, every practice session, and every new word worth the effort. The world feels smaller and more interconnected when I consider the possibilities that lie ahead, waiting for me to discover them through the beauty of language.

6. Some people say the world is really just going to have a few languages left in a 100 years, do you think this is really true?

I see the future of languages as a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, globalization and advances in technology may indeed push some languages into the background. However, I firmly believe that many languages will continue to flourish, fueled by cultural pride and a strong sense of identity. As awareness grows regarding the importance of linguistic diversity, there's a vibrant movement aimed at preserving lesser-known languages, often championed by local communities and activists. Moreover, the internet has revolutionized how we interact with languages, making it easier than ever for smaller languages to find their niche communities and audiences. Social media platforms, online learning resources, and streaming services enable people to connect with their heritage and explore languages in ways that were unimaginable in the past. So, while it’s likely we’ll see some languages fade over time, I also anticipate robust efforts to keep others alive and thriving. Additionally, as we move forward, we will undoubtedly witness the emergence of new variants and dialects of languages we’re familiar with today, influenced by cultural exchanges and technological advancements. In the end, language transcends mere communication; it’s an essential part of our identity, shaping how we understand and interact with the world around us!

7. What is your message to young (and not so young) people out there who are interested in studying multiple languages?

My message to young—and not so young—people interested in studying multiple languages is simple: embrace the journey! Language learning is not just about memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules; it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures, perspectives, and ways of thinking. Every language you learn opens up a new world of opportunities, from connecting with diverse communities to accessing rich literature and media.

Don’t be afraid of making mistakes; they are part of the learning process and often lead to the most memorable experiences. Surround yourself with the language as much as possible—watch films, listen to music, read books, and engage with native speakers. The more you live the language, the more natural it will become. Also, remember that learning languages is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Lastly, keep your curiosity alive! Each language has its own unique beauty and complexity, so approach your studies with an open mind and a sense of wonder. You never know what doors learning a new language might open for you!

Don’t choose to study a language solely because it’s widely spoken, considered an international language, or thought to be advantageous for job opportunities. Instead, seek out your passion and motivation for learning. If you don’t have a genuine interest in the language, you’ll likely struggle to make progress. Find what excites you about the language—be it its culture, literature, or the people who speak it—and let that passion drive your learning journey!

When I moved to Bergen, Norway, back in 2006, people often questioned my decision to study Norwegian. They’d ask, “Why learn a language with so few speakers when everyone there speaks English?” But I’m glad I didn’t listen to those voices. Learning Norwegian opened the door to Scandinavian culture and gave me access to mutual understanding with Swedish and Danish. I trusted my heart, and it led me to a rewarding and enriching experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Language learning, for me, is like unlocking the gate to a secret garden. Every new language I learn is another key that opens a door to hidden worlds of meaning, culture, and connection. Each language has its own unique way of interpreting the world, and as you learn it, you begin to see life from a new perspective. It’s like decoding a secret; you start to understand the subtleties, the idioms, and the emotions that can’t be fully expressed in any other language. The process is endless, and that’s what makes it so thrilling.

Imagine walking through a garden filled with countless doors, each leading to a new world of discovery. Behind one door, you find the precision and directness of Norwegian; behind another, the poetic fluidity of Portuguese. Another door reveals the intricate balance of tones in Vietnamese, while another brings you into the lively, rhythmic world of Spanish. Every door you open changes you, enriching your view of the world and the way you communicate within it.

But the beauty of language is not just in the learning. It’s in the connections you make along the way. Every new language brings with it new friends, new stories, and new possibilities. In this sense, language is more than just communication—it’s a bridge to new experiences, a way to broaden your understanding of humanity, and a tool that unlocks infinite doors of opportunity.

In the end, learning a new language is not just an intellectual exercise; it’s a profound experience that allows you to live multiple lives. Each language carries with it the soul of its people, the history of its culture, and the key to understanding its deepest values. Languages are like codes that unlock the treasures of the human experience, and the more you learn, the more you realize that the world is filled with infinite possibilities—each one waiting behind a door, just waiting to be opened.