The Discourse of Desperation

This book examines how the impoverished in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries used language strategically to address their critical needs. The Discourse of Desperation reveals their resourcefulness.

In The Discourse of Desperation, the author explores how the impoverished individuals of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries utilized their linguistic skills to address critical needs. Through an analysis of three distinct corpora of letters, the book reveals how these individuals, often facing significant educational barriers, crafted messages that were essential for their survival and well-being. The letters, written by the poor, provide a unique glimpse into the strategies employed by these writers to convey their messages effectively.

The central inquiry of The Discourse of Desperation revolves around the question of how those with limited literacy managed to write letters that were crucial to their interests. The author, Timmis, argues that the key to this phenomenon lies in the strategic use of formulaic language. This approach not only enabled the writers to produce coherent letters but also allowed them to adopt a tone that they believed would resonate with their audience. By examining letters from paupers seeking parish relief, women prisoners awaiting transportation, and anonymous letters demanding money, the book demonstrates the adaptability of language in desperate circumstances.

By shedding light on the resourcefulness of individuals in communicating their needs during crises, The Discourse of Desperation offers valuable insights into literacy and the awareness of language among the less fortunate. This work is particularly relevant for students and scholars interested in the intersections of corpus linguistics and social history, as it highlights the complex relationship between language and socioeconomic status.