Modernizing the language

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  • Dphillipson
    Full Member
    • Jan 2012
    • 25

    Modernizing the language

    Only the need for economy especially during the silly season could possibly,justify Radio Three's repeating July 19 the 2004 broadcast of Vanbrugh's Provok'd Wife as "specially adapted" by Jim Poyser. Whatever else a dramaturge needs, an ear for consistency is essential. A decade ago Mr. Poyser did not have it, and thus wrecked the play. He treated listeners to:
    "I own you are in danger."
    "I own you are right . .; .
    Is there pleasure in that?"
    "Too right !"
  • jean
    Late member
    • Nov 2010
    • 7100

    #2
    I wasn't aware of the broadcast's history when I switched on. The linguistic anachronism was so preposterous that I thought it must be intentional, though I couldn't really see what the intent might be. I quickly switched off again.

    Who is Jim Poyser? Why did he do it?

    Comment

    • french frank
      Administrator/Moderator
      • Feb 2007
      • 30537

      #3
      Originally posted by jean View Post
      Who is Jim Poyser? Why did he do it?
      a) I don't know b) to make it more relevant.

      Lady. Good morrow, Dear Cousin.
      Bel. Good morrow, Madam; you look pleas'd this morning.
      Lady. Yup.
      It isn't given us to know those rare moments when people are wide open and the lightest touch can wither or heal. A moment too late and we can never reach them any more in this world.

      Comment

      • jean
        Late member
        • Nov 2010
        • 7100

        #4
        He could have made it that much more relevant by having them say 'Hiya' instead of 'Good morrow'.

        No point in doing things by halves.

        Comment

        • Eine Alpensinfonie
          Host
          • Nov 2010
          • 20576

          #5
          Originally posted by jean View Post
          He could have made it that much more relevant by having them say 'Hiya' instead of 'Good morrow'.
          Or "Ay up!"

          Comment

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