Overview

Tradition, community, and pride are fundamental aspects of the history of Appalachia, and the language of the region is a living testament to its rich heritage. Despite the persistence of unflattering stereotypes and cultural discrimination associated with their style of speech, Appalachians have organized to preserve regional dialects -- complex forms of English peppered with words, phrases, and pronunciations unique to the area and its people. Talking Appalachian examines these distinctive speech varieties and emphasizes their role in expressing local history and promoting a shared identity. Beginning with a historical and geographical overview of the region that analyzes the origins of its dialects, this volume features detailed research and local case studies investigating their use. The contributors explore a variety of subjects, including the success of African American Appalachian English and southern Appalachian English speakers in professional and corporate positions. In addition, editors Amy D. Clark and Nancy M. Hayward provide excerpts from essays, poetry, short fiction, and novels to illustrate usage. With contributions from well-known authors such as George Ella Lyon and Silas House, this balanced collection is the most comprehensive, accessible study of Appalachian language available today.

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9780813147437

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Reviews

So I work to preserve our speech as carefully as I protect my great-grandma's black Bible wiht the cracked leather cover and folded handkerchief inside. I do it because, as Linda Scott DeRosier writes in her book Creeker, we carry heritage in our mouths. We do it so our children and generations of beyond will hear our voices in their own. And there ain't no shame in that. -- Amy Clark, Blue Ridge Country (Guest Column)

[...] [The book] rounds out a reader's understanding of an important and identifiable characteristic of Appalachian life. -- <i> <i>Courier-Journal</i></i></p>

Beginning with a historical and geographical overview of the region that analyzes the origins of its dialects, this volume features detailed research and local case studies investigating their use.... With contributions from well-known authors such as George Ella Lyon and Silas House, this balanced collection is the most comprehensive accessible study of Appalachian language available today. -- Paintsville Herald

Author Information

Amy D. Clark is associate professor of English at the University of Virginia's College at Wise, USA. Nancy M. Hayward is professor emeritus of English at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, USA.

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