John Platt – författare

First published in 1984, The New Englishes explores new varieties of English. Well-known examples of New Englishes include Indian English, Philippine English, Singapore English and African Englishes of nations such as Nigeria and Ghana.The book deals with the way New Englishes have developed in those non-native situations where they are used for a wide range of functions within the community. These New Englishes are varieties which have become localized not only through the influence of the other languages of the regions where they are used but also through being adapted to the life and culture of their speakers. They are, or are in the process of becoming, varieties of English in their own right—as legitimate as the ‘older’ Englishes which have been passed on from generation to generation of native speakers. As the authors show, these New Englishes had their beginnings in the colonial era, but in many nations, independence has meant an increase in the use and functions of English.Characteristics of these New Englishes are examined and compared to show that although there are many differences from one New English to another, there are also striking similarities. Topics such as accent and intonation, new meanings for words, new expressions, features of sentence structure, the development of styles, problems of standards and the use of the New Englishes in literature are discussed. Throughout the book, the authors show how English has been modified and enriched in its new settings.

Best Blues Book 2014 by Blues Matters magazine.Have you heard about Eel Pie Island?Anyone with an interest in the history of UK rock n' roll is familiar with The Cavern Club and the role that Merseyside played in the story of the British Beat scene. But on a far-less-celebrated, but no less significant path, over a small bridge onto an island in the middle of the Thames, Eel Pie Hotel, another great 60s club night, played host to acts that would later make a global name for themselves.The Rolling Stones, Long John Baldry, Rod Stewart, Pink Floyd, The Small Faces, David Bowie and The Yardbirds are amongst the many acts who performed at the legendary Eel Pie Hotel during its 50s and 60s heyday, as did jazz greats like Ken Colyer, Kenny Ball and Acker Bilk, as well as more avant-garde performers like Ivor Cutler.But how did The Eel Pie Club become such a popular venue?What motivated its founder, Arthur Chisnall to create a space where young people could enjoy the music they wanted to, in an environment free from the usual constraints?Why has this thriving West London scene been omitted from rock history when its influence has spread far and wide?Recently, bands like The Mystery Jets have paid homage to Chisnall's fabulous club, playing gigs on the island that launched careers and cemented rock's infamous relationships.The latest incarnation of the Eel Pie Club is alive and well. This book traces the origins of a scene that is long overdue for recognition.