American Dialects: A Manual for Actors, Directors, and Writers
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Book Overview
This standard text, now in paperback for the first time-- the companion volume to Foreign Dialects-- American Dialects offers representative dialects of every major section of the United States. In each case, a general description and history of the dialect is given, followed by an analysis of vowel and consonant peculiarities, of its individual lilt and rhythm, and of its grammar variations. There are also lists of the idioms and idiomatic expressions that distinguish each dialect and exercises using them. American Dialects also includes musical inflection charts and diagrams showing the placement of lips, tongue, and breath.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:087830049X
ISBN13:9780878300495
Release Date:March 1997
Publisher:Routledge
Length:312 Pages
Weight:1.35 lbs.
Dimensions:0.7" x 6.0" x 8.9"
Customer Reviews
3 ratings
a book of many voices
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
As a novelist struggling to learn how to give each character his own voice, this book was a gift from God. Perhaps the most important lesson it taught me was to trust my inner ear. It explained beautifully that dialects, even ones that sound ungrammatical, have their own rules of grammar. It helped me to isolate the particular dialect I was striving to recreate on the page and gave me the courage to use it without apology or explanation. A wonderful source for writers.
A wonderful, accurate book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
This book is a remarkably accurate and knowledgeable way to learn the many American dialects. It is very clear and concise, and would be a great help with the theatre. I spent a lot of time perfecting my New York City accent,and even though a don't do alot of acting it was fun to fool people, & with the help of this book, it worked. An amazing compilation that is clear and focused, it offers an invaluable lesson for anyone that has the time to sit and study it. Wonderful.
What a great tool for actors!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
An essential tool for any actor who wants to be able to master the regional American accents. Using the international phonetic, this book will guide you through various areas of the USA and allow you to nail down the subtleties of their accent. With this book you'll fool the natives.
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