Henry James's The Question of Our Speech (1905) is an essay that critiques American speech, manners, and cultural values. James laments the decline of articulate and civilized communication in the United States, expressing concern over its effects on society. He juxtaposes American cultural habits with those of Europe, where he believes a coherent culture of speech, manners, and taste constitutes civilization.

Reflection on American Identity: The essay prompts reflection on what it means to be American and how American identity is expressed through language and social behavior. Comparison with European Culture: James's comparison of American and European cultures highlights the differences in values and priorities between the two. Emphasis on Civility and Decorum: The essay underscores the importance of civility and decorum in social interactions. James suggests that these qualities are essential for maintaining a harmonious and civilized society. Critique of American Social Habits: James critiques various American social habits, including how people eat and read, arguing that these habits reflect a broader lack of manners and attention to form.

The Decline of Speech: James expresses concern over Americans' inability to communicate decently, which he sees as a reflection of a broader absence of manners. He distinguishes between mere talk and genuine speech, the latter involving attention to tone, articulation, and civility. Manners and Morals: James argues that speech, manners, morals, and civilization are interconnected. He suggests that a decline in one area inevitably leads to a decline in the others. Cultural Criticism: James's essay is a critique of American culture, particularly the perceived lack of attention to civilized habits and expectations of decency. He contrasts this with the European emphasis on manners, taste, and coherent culture. Gender Roles: James directs some of his criticism toward American women, who, despite their preoccupation with social activities, do not take sufficient care in how they speak1. He acknowledges that American men may be even more deficient in their manners due to traditional gender roles. The Importance of Education: James emphasizes that the educative process cannot begin without a knowledge of speech. He believes that the ability to converse and handle social situations is essential for achieving manners and taste, which he sees as the foundation of a coherent culture.

Reflection on American Identity: The essay prompts reflection on what it means to be American and how American identity is expressed through language and social behavior. Comparison with European Culture: James's comparison of American and European cultures highlights the differences in values and priorities between the two. Emphasis on Civility and Decorum: The essay underscores the importance of civility and decorum in social interactions. James suggests that these qualities are essential for maintaining a harmonious and civilized society. Critique of American Social Habits: James critiques various American social habits, including how people eat and read, arguing that these habits reflect a broader lack of manners and attention to form.

Stimulation of Cultural Debate: The essay likely stimulated debate about American culture, values, and social behavior. James's provocative critique would have encouraged readers to consider their own habits and attitudes. Influence on Education and Social Reform: James's emphasis on the importance of education and cultivation of manners may have influenced educational practices and social reform movements. Promotion of Cultural Awareness: The essay may have promoted greater cultural awareness and appreciation for the role of language and manners in shaping society. Contribution to Literary and Intellectual Discourse: James's work contributed to the broader literary and intellectual discourse on American identity, culture, and the challenges of modernity.

The Question of Our Speech is a critique of American culture, lamenting the decline of articulate and civilized communication. James emphasizes the interconnectedness of speech, manners, morals, and civilization, advocating for the cultivation of taste and decorum in American society. His essay serves as a call for cultural improvement, urging Americans to prioritize education, civility, and the pursuit of a more coherent and refined culture.