The people in this story suddenly realise how precious their language is to them. What shows you this? Why does this happen?

Several elements in the story can show the sudden realization of the preciousness of language to the characters:

1. Loss of Communication: Perhaps the characters experience a situation where they are unable to communicate effectively due to a language barrier. This loss of communication highlights the importance of language as a tool for understanding and connecting with others.

2. Expressing Identity and Culture: The characters may come to recognize that their language is not just a means of communication but also a reflection of their identity and cultural heritage. They may realize that their language embodies unique expressions, traditions, and values that are integral to who they are.

3. Preserving History and Stories: The characters may realize that their language carries within it the stories, history, and wisdom of their ancestors. They may come to appreciate the richness and depth of their language as a repository of cultural knowledge and heritage.

4. Emotional Connection: Through moments of nostalgia, poetry, or shared memories, the characters may experience a deep emotional connection to their language. They may realize the power of language to evoke feelings of belonging, comfort, and intimacy.

This sudden realization of the preciousness of their language can happen for various reasons:

• External Threat: Perhaps the characters face a situation where their language is endangered or under threat, leading them to appreciate its value more deeply.
• Personal Growth: Through personal experiences or encounters with others, the characters may undergo a process of self-discovery and come to recognize the significance of their language in shaping their identity and relationships.
• Cultural Awakening: The characters may undergo a cultural awakening or moment of enlightenment, where they gain a deeper understanding of the importance of language in preserving their cultural heritage and sense of belonging.

Overall, this realization may lead the characters to take proactive steps to preserve and celebrate their language, whether through language revitalization efforts, cultural initiatives, or simply cherishing and passing on their linguistic traditions to future generations.