I’ve had to do a lot of research for my next book, Finding Edith Pinsent because Edie’s story spans almost eight decades. I’ve read quite a few books set in the early periods – the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s – and I’ve watched a lot of television. My go-to TV channel has been one called ‘Talking Pictures TV’. It’s full of old movies and short information films that were made as far back as the late 1930s. They’re brilliant for giving you a glimpse into everyday life back then.
It’s been fascinating and ever-so-slightly addictive. For a while, I became a bit obsessed. Watching them has made me much more aware of how the way we speak changes over time. Not just the accent but the things we say. Here are a few phrases I’ve picked up from a 1940s film that, I have to admit, made me smile a little.
I do actually say good lord. I’m obviously a bit of a forties throwback. How embarrassing.
I’ll be posting more of these little insights in the build up to the release of Finding Edith Pinsent on 10th January. Look out for more snippets coming your way soon.
