Tags
authors, cant, England, George Choundas, georgian, Georgian England, Georgian Underworld, historical, history, jargon, London society, London Underbelly, meanings, pirate, pirate speak, pirates, society, speak, Stephen Hart, The Pirate Primer, Underworld, words
I’m blogging at Historical Hussies today!
Writing historical romance is a gratifying experience that can oftentimes be difficult too. An author makes choices that help modern readers understand the way people spoke in historical times, but must also season the story with historical words that transport readers to that era. Which words to use and when to use them? Well… that’s a talent every writer must master. Fortunately, several books are available to help authors achieve storyline Zen.
My go-to book for pirate jargon has always been THE PIRATE PRIMER by George Choundas. A fascinating book! A dash of ‘You’re wasting words’ and a smidgeon of ‘What maggot’s burrowing under your periwig?’ goes a long way. (Pirate!)
Most Regency authors tackle stories of the upper crust. Who doesn’t love daring and dashing dukes, marquises, or earls who champion the day? Even historical aristocrats spoke in gentleman’s code. Several of my favorites include ‘Banbury stories’ (falsehoods), ‘befogged’ (confused), ‘dicked in the nob’ (crazy), and ‘land a facer’ (punch in the face).
Read the rest of this great list of Georgian and pirate cant at Historical Hussies!
Raisin' the Signal Flag 