The Challenge

Here I'm trying to put together the right resources for studying Maya in English, but staying true to the proper Maya writing (not anglicized) so in the future we can pronounce properly what we read.

Your danger is that the "anglicization" of Maya writing hides important information that in turn changes the meaning of the word and misinforms you.

For example, an official Yucatán website that promotes learning Maya for English speakers anglicized the writing in a way that makes reading Mayan's writing difficult, if not nearly impossible.

A pinch of salt
hun thuy taab (anglicization of Maya)
jun t'úuy ta'ab (standard Maya)

Maya will be my 5th language, so I know the importance of focusing on the basics. Here I'm using my previous linguistic experience to put together my own lessons.

One thing I want to have is the proper vowel sounds. Why? Look at this:

T’AAB = to light on fire
TÁAB. = Mecapal headband (used to carry things on one's back)
TA’AB = Salt

So the anglicized "taab" does not specify where the accent goes in the long-vowel sounds. Do you mean salt? headband? to light on fire? Keep your eyes open for the accents!