The changing sounds of Britain: the decline of RP
For most of the 20th century, Received Pronunciation (RP), also known as "BBC English" or "the Queen's English", was the most prestigious accent in Britain. This non-regional accent originated in the upper-middle class of southern England. It was seen as the epitome of refined speech and social standing. Its adoption by the BBC further cemented its standardisation. Why is this no longer the case?
29 November 2023 by
Dave Child
Half of the English language is of French origin
The English language is a fascinating mix of words and phrases from all over the world. While it is primarily a Germanic language, it has been heavily influenced by other languages. Including French. In fact, it is estimated that up to 60% of the English vocabulary is of French origin. This is due to the […]
26 October 2023 by Dave Child
How journaling can improve your writing skills
Journaling is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings, track your progress, and de-stress. But did you know that journaling can also improve your writing skills? Here are some ways that journaling can help you become a better writer. Practice makes perfect The saying “practice makes perfect” is true for many things, including […]
14 September 2023 by Dave Child
The act of verbing a noun
Recently, a lawyer used the term 'straitjacketing' as a verb. Some grammarians were disgruntled. What is verbing and how can we use it effectively?
12 April 2023 by Dave Child
How did ghost stories become an unlikely tradition?
Telling ghost stories at Christmas time is a tradition originating in Victorian England. How did this come about?
22 December 2022 by
Laura Kelly
How to read more effectively as a writer
Reading can be very active if you make it so. Gather your post-it notes and let’s explore how we can read to become better writers.
21 October 2022 by Laura Kelly
Be Kind to Writers and Editors Month
September is Be Kind to Writers and Editors Month. Here are some reasons why writers and editors deserve appreciation.
9 September 2022 by Laura Kelly
Some of the greatest bestselling novels were initially rejected
You'd be surprised at the pitfalls some of the greatest works of our time faced. What bestselling novels initially got rejection letters?
30 August 2022 by Laura Kelly
The history of the paperback
Saturday 30th July is Paperback Book Day. Learn about the history of this medium.
29 July 2022 by Laura Kelly
The best UK spots for literary tourism
Literary tourism is a way for book lovers to travel. Here are some locations that inspired some of the greatest literary works.
15 June 2022 by Laura Kelly
A lesson from Nabokov: how to write for the senses
Metaphors are one of the most powerful devices. Nabokov was synaesthetic. What is synaesthesia and how can it help you craft interesting metaphors?
20 May 2022 by Laura Kelly
The greatest insults in Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was deft with wonderfully worded insults in his works. Here are some of our favourites.
22 April 2022 by Laura Kelly
