OW BEYON, M'DEEYURS? ... AZ'N THEE BIN APLOWUN ZMARNIN? ... WHIRR BE GWAIN TO? ... COME INYER AND WET THEE WHIZZLE
Can people in Somerset really be speaking the English language?
Indeed they can, and there's more to this distinct dialect than just lots of 'ooh-aars' and endless references to Zummerzet Zyder.
A treasure trove of folk history and vivid English expression can be found in the Somerset dialect. For example, you're probably familiar with the name Dumbledore from the Harry Potter books. But did you now it's actually an ancient Somerset word for bumblebee?
Don't Tell I, Tell 'Ee! traces the origins of the Somerset dialect, capturing the warmth and humour to be found among those who live in the region.
Author Roger Evans lives in Bridgwater and is a well-known local historian, lecturer and writer. He is also the author of Somerset Tales of Mystery & Murder, Somerset Stories of the Supernatural and Blame it on the Cider.
CONTENTS
- Foreword
- An Introduction to the Somerset Dialect
- 1. A look at Nursery Rhymes
- 2. Somerset Grammar
- 3. Getting By in Somerset
- 4. A Somerset Dictionary
- 5. Pub Talk - The Harvest Home Supper
- 6. A Rural Glossary
- 7. The King and the Cakes
- Quiz 1
- 8. Zyder Tawk
- 9. Ghostes
- 10. Adge Cutler & the Wurzels
- 11. Somerset Place Names
- 12. Country Calendar
- Quiz 2
- 13. A Tribute to Frederick Elworthy
- 14. An Insane Somerset Look at British History
- 15. Zomerset!
Illustrated with amusing cartoons, this book is a celebration of the local dialect of Somerset.