The Dictionary of Lost Words + The "Improved" Last Word
“A vulgar word, well placed and said with just enough vigour, can express far more than its polite equivalent.”
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams is the debut novel of the most wonderfully engrossing aspect of a historical fiction narrative I never knew I was interested in. Set in Oxford during the height of Women’s Suffrage and World War I, this novel tells the story of the production of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) through the eyes and life of Esme. Esme’s father works at the Scriptorum or garden shed headquarters of the production of the OED and Esme grows up underneath the sorting table of this workplace. As she grows up, Esme notices that the words and meanings in the OED are largely defined by the all-men and all well-off lexicographers. She soon realizes that words that belong to women and common folk are not being recorded. Through a few bad choices, support from others, bravery, and openness, Esme sets out to collect and create her own dictionary to ensure these words are recorded in some way. (Published by Ballantine Books)
As seen on Instagram via @shake_and_stehr
A fictional book connected to the Oxford English Dictionary sounds a bit dry, but the expert layering of storylines, the in-depth character development, and the inspection of words and their influence on our world are enough to get anyone reading. And now a drink to match? The Last Word is the obvious choice, but shake_and_stehr takes another perspective on a classic.
“Improved” Last Word
1 - 1 1/2 oz London Dry Gin
3/4 oz Green Chartreuse
3/4 oz Luxardo Maraschino
3/4 oz lime juice
Islay Scotch spray
garnish: dehydrated lime wheel
