In Which Jenn’s Language App Makes Subversive Suggestions

There’s a decent chance I’ll vacationing in Puerto Rico this December, so I’ve decided that just in case I should brush up on my Spanish. My roommate tipped me off to this app called Duolingo that puts you through your language paces; I’ve downloaded it and have spent the last week furiously working through the sections.

I’ve noticed something, though – the sentences the have you translate can be weird.

It started innocently enough – “El gato come la manzana.” I have never offered an apple to either of my cats but it does not strike me as something they’d be interested in eating. Still, they do like melon, so maybe Duolingo is on to something.

“El gato duerme cerca del pinguino.” I have never known either of my cats to sleep anywhere near a penguin. I sincerely doubt they know what a penguin is. Maybe Duolingo is confused about the nature of cats.

If that is the case, they are not confused about the nature of ME. I think Duolingo has stopped merely messing with me and is now actively mocking me, guys.

 

Given that the Marine Corps Marathon is in October and the Wine and Dine Half is in November, this isn’t going to work too well. What are you trying to tell me, Duolingo? That I should just quit?

Oh. I see. So my grandmother only takes ONE month off. She’s a better runner than I am. Nice.

I… I… I give up.

Don’t forget, you can follow FRoA on Twitter @fairestrunofall and on Instagram @fairestrunofall. If you have any questions or thoughts, leave a comment or email fairestrunofall@gmail.com. See ya real soon!