Cockney and the Queen (Paperback)

What is Estuary English? This has been a matter of debate in linguistic circles for more than 20 years. Some claim that it is a result of a degeneration in the well-established upper class dialect known as Received Pronunciation, while others believe that it is a completely new dialect that combines RP and elements known from pre-established dialects found around the Thames estuary. One thing is certain: Estuary English is on the rise, and it is spreading quickly. This book addresses the phenomenon known as Estuary English, and attempts to shed light on its development and how it has impacted the way people speak in the south-eastern parts of England.