Let’s take a peek into a secret world where every word sparkles with sass - the cheeky realm of Polari.
This isn’t just any old language—it’s a vibrant, coded way of speaking that was a lifesaver for LGBTQ+ folks navigating a less-than-welcoming world. Imagine a language so under-the-radar it’s practically camouflaged in glitter!
History of Polari
Alright it's the early 20th century. You’re in a society that’s pretty strict about who gets to be who. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, being open about their identities could lead to trouble. Enter Polari—a fabulous, coded language that allowed them to chat away while keeping things on the down-low.
Polari’s origins are a bit like a cocktail mix of different languages—Italian, Romani, and Cockney rhyming slang all stirred together. It was like a secret handshake for those in the know, a way to express yourself freely when the world was less than kind. Its heyday was in the mid-20th century when it glittered its way into the public eye through theatre and television. Shows like “Round the Horne” turned Polari into a bit of a star, making it known among a broader audience while keeping its essence intact.
Polari in Popular Culture
Now, let’s talk glam. Polari wasn’t just a secret code; it strutted its stuff onto the stage and screen. Think Kenneth Williams and Danny La Rue, bringing their own sparkle to Polari and making it an iconic part of their acts. These performers didn’t just use Polari—they made it part of the show, turning it into something that was both cheeky and charming.
How Polari Was Used
So, how did this secret lingo work? Picture a lively chat about your latest night out, but with a twist. Polari was all about having fun with language while keeping things discreet. For those who spoke it, it was a way to chat freely and creatively, without worrying about who might overhear.
Phrases You Need to Know
Here’s a little glossary of some Polari phrases to tickle your fancy:
Bona – Good.
(E.g., “That’s a bona look!”)
Naff – Bad or uncool.
(E.g., “That’s so naff!”)
Vada – To see or look at.
(E.g., “Vada your dolly old eek.”)
Dolly – A person.
(E.g., “She’s a right dolly.”)
Zhoosh – To improve or make something fabulous.
(E.g., “Let’s zhoosh up this outfit!”)
Lush – Attractive or nice.
(E.g., “That’s a lush dress!”)
Bona drag – Great or fabulous drag performance.
(E.g., “Did you see that bona drag?”)
Panto – A pantomime or theatrical show.
(E.g., “We’re going to the panto tonight.”)
Nina – A friend or acquaintance.
(E.g., “Hey, nina!”)
Troll – To search or look around.
(E.g., “Let’s troll for some fun.”)
Many Polari phrases have waltzed their way into common usage. Words like camp, diva, and bona have transcended their coded origins and become part of everyday vernacular. It's a testament to how some of Polari's most fabulous terms have found their place in the broader language, adding a bit of sparkle and cheek to our daily conversations.
The Decline and Revival
So, what happened? As the world became a tad more accepting, the need for a secret language like Polari faded. But just like those classic dance moves, Polari never truly went out of style. Recently, it’s been making a fabulous comeback, popping up in drag performances and LGBTQ+ events, proving that a little bit of old-school flair never hurt anyone.
Polari Today
These days, Polari’s got a new lease on life. It’s celebrated and preserved by those who recognise its importance in our cultural heritage. From drag shows to historical projects, Polari is making sure it’s not just a memory but a living, breathing part of our vibrant community.
Fluent in Polari
Here's some Polari Phrase - how fluent are you?
Wrapping It Up
And there you have it—a romp through the dazzling world of Polari. This isn’t just about words; it’s about a piece of LGBTQ+ history that kept spirits high in less-than-friendly times. Try to sprinkle a little Polari magic into your lives, it keeps the glitter alive.