Here's a breakdown of what it means:
Key Features:
* Informal: Vernacular writing often uses slang, colloquialisms, and regional expressions. It's not concerned with strict grammatical rules or formal vocabulary.
* Accessible: It's easy to understand and relate to, even if the reader isn't familiar with the specific dialect.
* Authentic: It reflects the real way people speak and think, making it feel genuine and relatable.
* Time-Specific: Vernacular language changes over time, so writing from a specific era will reflect the speech patterns of that period.
Examples:
* Shakespeare's Plays: While Shakespeare used some formal language, his plays are filled with vernacular expressions that would have been understood by common people of his time.
* Mark Twain's "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn": Twain uses the dialect of the American South to create realistic characters and a distinct voice.
* Contemporary Novels: Modern writers often use vernacular language to create authentic characters and dialogue, reflecting the speech patterns of different communities.
Why is it important?
* Historical Understanding: It helps us understand the language and culture of different periods.
* Authenticity: It makes writing more engaging and relatable.
* Social Commentary: It can highlight social differences and inequalities.
In contrast to formal writing:
Formal writing, on the other hand, uses a more polished and elevated language. It follows strict grammar rules and avoids slang or colloquialisms. This style is typically used in academic writing, official documents, and speeches.
In summary, writing in the vernacular is about using the language that people actually speak, making your writing more authentic, engaging, and reflective of the culture it depicts.