A Vocabulary of Criminal Slang: A Comprehensive Review

Given the provided information, “A Vocabulary of Criminal Slang by Louis E. Jackson” is not a novel in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a dictionary or glossary. Consequently, a review necessitates a different approach, focusing on its nature as a reference work rather than a narrative.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

As a vocabulary of slang, the book’s primary function is informative. The value of such a work depends heavily on its comprehensiveness, accuracy, and the historical context it provides. My overall feeling is that the book’s strength lies in its potential to offer a glimpse into a specific subculture and its language. It’s a resource for understanding how criminals communicated, which can be useful for researchers, writers, and anyone interested in the history of crime and language.

Writing Style, Character Development, and Literary Themes

Since the work is a dictionary, there is no traditional writing style, character development, or plot. The “writing style” is simply the method used to define and explain slang terms. The quality of this writing depends on the clarity and accuracy of the definitions. There are no characters in a literary sense. However, the collection itself suggests characters and their environments. It paints a picture of the individuals who use this particular language.

The “literary theme,” if any, is about the power of language to obscure and communicate. It suggests how marginalized communities create their own linguistic systems. The context of the vocabulary defines the theme and sets it apart.

Pacing and Structure

The structure is alphabetical, typical of dictionaries and glossaries. There is no pacing in a narrative sense. The experience is of a reference work.

Author’s Use of Language and Imagery

The author’s use of language is primarily focused on clarity and precision in definition. It provides the context of the definition. The effectiveness depends on how well Jackson defines the vocabulary. The imagery is created by the individual slang terms and the contexts they represent. For example, a term such as “gat” for a gun, or “shakedown” for extortion, immediately conjures images of crime and illicit activity.

Emotional Impact

The book’s emotional impact is unlikely to be high. It may evoke curiosity or a sense of historical interest, but it is not designed to generate strong emotions. The book’s goal is to inform and enlighten.

Themes and Messages

The author is trying to convey information about criminal slang and its use. It is a record of a specific aspect of criminal culture. The message might be that language is dynamic. Criminals make their own unique language. The commentary, if any, is historical and social. It provides insight into how language reflects a subculture.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Historical Value: Provides insight into the language of criminals at a specific time.
  • Potential Usefulness: Beneficial for researchers, writers, and those interested in the history of crime and language.
  • Comprehensive (likely): Depends on the original work; but good dictionaries are usually as thorough as possible.

Weaknesses:

  • Lack of Narrative: It is not a novel and does not have the features of one.
  • Potentially Limited Appeal: The audience may be restricted to those with specific interests in criminal slang.

Recommendation

I would recommend this book to anyone researching criminal slang, historical criminology, or the evolution of language. It is also a good resource for writers crafting stories about crime. Readers of books available on My Ebook might find this dictionary a useful companion for understanding crime-related vocabulary.

Rating

Considering its specialized nature, I would give it a 4 out of 5 stars as a reference work. The value is high for those interested in its specific subject.

Where to Get It

Important Note: The availability of this specific edition may vary. Search for “A Vocabulary of Criminal Slang by Louis E. Jackson” on the following platforms to find a copy:

  • Amazon: Search on Amazon’s website (amazon.com) for both physical and digital (Kindle) editions.
  • Online Bookstores: Search on sites such as Abebooks, Bookshop.org, or other online booksellers for potential used or rare copies.
  • Internet Archive: Check the Internet Archive (archive.org) to see if a digitized copy is available for free access or lending.
  • Google Books: Check if a preview or a complete view is available on Google Books.