Strange Talk

Discover the captivating world of vernacular in late-19th-century America with "Strange Talk," a thought-provoking exploration by the University of California Press. Published in 1999 and spanning 299 pages, this intriguing book delves into the rise of dialect in American literature, showcasing how local color stories, realist novels, and various poetic forms captivated mass audiences of the time.

Authoritative and insightful, "Strange Talk" investigates the aesthetic politics behind the "cult of vernacular," unraveling the origins of this influential trend in literature. Whether you are a literature enthusiast, a student seeking to understand historical dialects, or simply curious about American cultural history, this book offers a compelling narrative that engages and informs. Add it to your collection and enjoy a rich examination of language and identity in American society.