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Conventional Functions of Black English in American Literature »

Authors: Richard O. Lewis
ISBN-13: 9781572920323, ISBN-10: 1572920327
Format: Paperback
Publisher: University Press of America
Date Published: September 2001
Edition: (Non-applicable)

Author Biography: Richard O. Lewis

Book Synopsis

A stimulating contribution to the present debate over bilingualism and education, Richard Lewis' study provides a thorough analysis of the components and structure of Black English and its paradoxical position as a vernacular in today's culture and literature.

Booknews

Analyzes the components and structure of what many now call Ebonics and its paradoxical position as a vernacular in today's African- American culture and literature. Drawing from literature rather than oral expression, distinguishes 16 conventional functions in the language. They include the readers' mood response, shifts in the author's emphasis, satires of racial prejudice, and irony and paradox. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

	Foreword
	Acknowledgements
Pt. I	Meaning of the Term, "Black English"	1
Pt. II	How do Authors Use "Black English" in American Literature?	15
	Setting and Time	19
	Background Information	19
	Author's Tone	20
	Reader's Mood	21
	Shifts in Author's Emphasis	23
	Develops Foils	23
	Foreshadowing Heightens Suspense	24
	Idiomatic Expressions	25
	Western Civilization's Literary Conventions	26
	Author's Political and Social Commentary	27
	Disavows "Primitive" Stereotypes	29
	Satirizes Racial Prejudice	30
	The Black Oral Narrative Folktale	31
	Mouth/Ear Rhythmic Sensations	32
	Irony and Paradox	38
	Verbal Sexualization	38
	Conclusion	46
	Appendices	52
	Works Cited	61
	Index	67

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