I sometimes ask about that to myself. My target is to pass the Eiken Pre-1st grade so far. However, I'm wondering whether the thing is useful for my future. Is it just only self-satisfaction?
Because of its unstable thought, I occasionally lose my passion to study the language.
But, at last, I found that it seems to like my hobby. Since I change my thought of the purpose like that, it gives me a great sense of relief.
みゆきゆみ, I agree with you that learning English gives me some degree of relief. Actually, practical reasons of learning English, for instance,to take advantage of it when getting a job etc doesn't matter to me.
I feel inferior complex when I meet a person who's first language is not English but can speak very good English.
I shouldn't feel like that but not-being-able-to speak better English embarrasses me very often.
Practicing English does, for me, give self-satisfaction.
Also, I'm interested in American & English literature and Hollywood movies so being able to understand English brings me a wider range of chance to enjoy my hobby. (provided I can understand some of English)
Well, I don't learn English myself, it's my native language. However, I can relate to your point as I am learning a second language as well. I am learning Japanese for personal reasons, mainly being because I want to travel and learn to live by myself. I also have an appreciation for Japanese culture. I am very new to the language, having only been studying for half a year, and I worry that I won't be able to make the kind of progress I'd like as soon as I'd like. I practice speaking for about two hours a day from Monday to Friday, and I practice reading and writing on and off, depending on my schedule.
So basically, as for the reason why, well... I want to go there to study the music, and maybe live some of my life there. I love the Koto and Taiko drumming! I study music in university as a percussionist, so I really like Taiko!
Jamie & Peter,
Your writings give me courage and hope.
When I find someone, like yours, have an effort to study language, I regard yours as fellows having the same target.
I'd like to express my gratitude to yours!