I sometimes write in Spanish on the theory that I probably write as well (if not as fluently) as native speakers who never studied their own language. In the same way, educated ESL speakers often write English better (if not more fluently) than under-educated native speakers.
No one should be discouraged from writing or speaking another language. What would be the point in learning one? Sure, you'll make mistakes, but if you wait until you get it right before you start you'll never say or write a word.
I'm not keen on language dropping, the practice of sprinkling foreign phrases into a poem to show your own erudition. Foreign words and phrases have their uses in writing, of course; they can add local flavor or establish geographical or cultural connections or characterization. But don't assume a reader won't know whether you've managed them correctly just because you don't know the difference. Your poem could wind up sounding like something a computer translated.
Carol
[This message has been edited by Carol Taylor (edited September 09, 2008).]
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