Accenting the Obvious

Because I grew up in the Western Suburbs of Chicago, I have somewhat of a Chicago accent.


I like this accent. It’s useful.

I tend to be very direct. I say what I think. A Chicago accent gives me the leeway to be blunt. People south of St. Louis expect Chicago to be full of Pushy Broads, so when I act like one, no big deal.

Living in South Texas, I find that I have to work at keeping my accent. For example:

In South Texas, “Insurance” is pronounced IN-shur-ence. In Chicago, it’s in-SHUR-ence.

In South Texas, “Y’all” refers to a few people. “Alla y’all” refers to many people.
In Chicago, “You guys” refers to a few people. “All you guys” refers to several people.

I find the biggest misunderstandings in restaurants.

When I order a can of pop (pronounced “acanna paap”), I want a Coke Zero. I am frequently asked to clarify.

And for some reason, when I say something simple like “Baked Chicken and Steamed Vegetables”, waiters hear “Chicken Fettuccine with extra Alfredo. And a Tiramisu. With acanna paap.”

Regional differences. Whaddya gonna do?