Filthy English: The How, Why, When and What of Everyday Swearing

A frank, funny, and provocative journey through the international culture of swearing, from the shocked seventies to the naughty noughties

 

For decades the most offensive word in the English language began with an F, then some ****s decided that it began with a C?although these days to really offend people you need to use the N word. This popular history traces how, when, and why this transition and others like it have occurred, and their significance. It also explores when and why English speakers moved from blasphemy to sexual swear words, and such other questions as Are racial insults the last remaining no-go area? Why do mother insults cut so deep in the Mediterranean? And who gives a **** anyway? Considering the cultural nuances of profane language, this book offers a witty look at swearing and the impact of its new acceptability on language, manners, and society.

Peter Silverton has been a journalist for 30 years. He started as features editor at Sounds in 1976, covered punk, went on the Anarchy tour bus with the Sex Pistols and Clash, and later wrote Glen Matlock's autobiography, I Was A Teenage Sex Pistol. He has also worked as an editor at the Guardian, the Mail on Sunday, the Sunday Express, and Time Out.