Subject
English language -- Dialects -- England -- Yorkshire Books
Best books
F. W. (Frederic William) Moorman
Yorkshire Dialect Poems (1673-1915) and traditional poems
"Yorkshire Dialect Poems (1673-1915)" by F. W. Moorman is a collection of dialect poetry that showcases the rich literary heritage of Yorkshire, primarily composed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This anthology features both traditional poems and works from various authors renowned for their contributions to Yorkshire dialect literature. The likely topic of the collection revolves around the everyday lives, customs, and experiences of Yorkshire people, expressed through the distinctive and lively vernacular of the region. The opening of this volume includes a preface by F. W. Moorman that delves into the historical context of Yorkshire dialect poetry and its evolution over centuries. He emphasizes the book's unification of poems across different dialects and highlights the importance of capturing the authentic speech of Yorkshire. The first poem presented is "A Yorkshire Dialogue between an Awd Wife, a Lass, and a Butcher," a lively and realistic exchange that vividly represents the dialect and daily occurrences in rural Yorkshire, setting the tone for the collection as an exploration of local culture and language through poetry.
John Hartley
Yorksher Puddin' A Collection of the Most Popular Dialect Stories from the Pen of John Hartley
"Yorksher Puddin'" by John Hartley is a collection of popular dialect stories written in the late 19th century. The work captures the essence of Yorkshire life, characterized by its regional dialect and rich storytelling tradition. Through the tales and characters, the book explores themes of working-class struggles, community interactions, and the humor embedded in everyday life, often reflecting on poignant social issues through a lighthearted lens. The opening of "Yorksher Puddin'" sets the stage for a series of engaging tales with its first story, "Frozen to Death," which depicts a cold Christmas morning where two children, Tom and Susy, are hurrying to their factory job. Their difficult journey through treacherous and icy conditions illustrates their family's poverty and need for the children's earnings. Meanwhile, back at home, their mother, Bessy, is anxiously awaiting their return while caring for her ill husband and newborn. The narrative quickly shifts from their hopeful spirit to tragedy as the children's struggle against the elements highlights the harsh realities faced by working-class families during this era. Hartley's story unfolds with a mix of sorrow and everyday resilience, establishing a gripping start to the collection.
John Castillo
Awd Isaac, The Steeple Chase, and Other Poems With a glossary of the Yorkshire Dialect
"Awd Isaac, The Steeple Chase, and Other Poems" by John Castillo is a collection of poems written in the early 19th century. The poems reflect various themes, including faith, moral lessons, and social commentary, often using the Yorkshire dialect to resonate with the local populace. The central voice of the narrative, Awd Isaac, serves as a representative character who shares his life experiences and spiritual journeys through the verses. The opening of the collection introduces readers to Awd Isaac, who reflects on his life as he encounters an elderly man during an evening walk home from work. Their conversation unfolds with themes of aging, loss, and the importance of faith, illustrating Awd Isaac's past trials, including the loss of loved ones and struggles with despair. The dialogue reveals his transformation through faith, showcasing the powerful impact of divine grace and the importance of community support in overcoming life's adversities. As he recounts terrifying experiences and the solace he finds in God, Awd Isaac becomes a voice of wisdom, sharing valuable lessons steeped in the Christian faith.
John Hartley
Yorkshire Tales. Third Series Amusing sketches of Yorkshire Life in the Yorkshire Dialect
"Yorkshire Tales. Third Series" by John Hartley is a collection of amusing sketches depicting Yorkshire life written during the late 19th century. The book employs the Yorkshire dialect to offer a humorous look at the everyday experiences and characters from its setting, showcasing their unique quirks and conversations. The opening of the collection features several characters, including Sammywell and his wife Mally, who engage in lively dialogue filled with banter and witty observations about life, appearance, and social expectations. The frequent discussions revolve around themes such as vanity, community, and the humorous misunderstandings that arise in everyday circumstances. The sketches also introduce scenarios involving friends and family that highlight the contrasting perspectives on life, showcasing both the mundane and the comically eccentric aspects of Yorkshire society.
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