The Wheezy Geezers

Have you ever had one of those moments where your character being "surprised" just didn’t cut it? They’re standing there, jaw dropped, eyes wide, and the only word that truly fits the explosion of bewilderment in your brain is something like flabbergasted. There is a specific kind of joy in a word that sounds exactly like the feeling it describes.

Lately, it feels like our daily digital chatter has flattened out. We’ve traded rich, textured descriptions for a handful of tired adjectives and a library of emojis. But there seems to be a quiet movement afoot—a collective desire to reach back into the dusty corners of the English language and pull out the "gems" our grandparents used to use.

Why the sudden urge to bring back "claptrap" or "discombobulated"? It isn't just about being quirky or "retro." These words carry a weight and a whimsy that modern slang often lacks. When you call a situation a hullabaloo, you aren’t just saying it’s noisy; you’re painting a picture of chaotic, slightly ridiculous energy.

Reviving these older terms does something wonderful for our connections, too. It breaks the ice. Using a word like shenanigans in a professional email or a casual text instantly injects a sense of playfulness. It reminds us that language isn't just a tool for data transfer; it’s a playground.

The research results

Research company OnePoll found that:

• • 42% of respondents felt that old expressions might make comeback, especially if they were modernised, for example “talking Cods” for “talking Codswallop”.
  • 31% such modernising might be helpful in bridging generation gaps.
  • 62% felt that some of these vintage expressions are clearer than their modern alternatives.
  • 73% agreed reviving words would make conversations more interesting, 81% for the 25-34 age group
  • 77% felt that communication could feel more personal and expressive.

Maybe introducing long-lost or vintage expressions could achieve this.

20 great vintage words to bring back.

Bamboozled
Blimey
Chuffed
Codswallop
Crikey
Fiddlesticks
Flabbergasted
Flummoxed
Gallivanting
Gobsmacked
Gosh
Hanky-Panky
Jolly
Kerfuffle
Malarkey
Perplexed
Poppycock
Skedaddle
Tomfoolery
Whippersnapper

Takeaway

By dusting off and using these linguistic heirlooms in our witing, we descriptively bridge a gap between the past and the present. We aren't just talking; we’re storytelling. The next time your character finds themselves "annoyed," maybe try being miffed instead. It’s only a small change, but it makes the world feel just a little bit more colourful.

Your library in your pocket or bag.

Did you know that your library card is actually a golden ticket to a world of free digital entertainment? If you aren’t using BorrowBox or Libby, you are missing out on thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines that you can access right from your smartphone or tablet.

BorrowBox

BorrowBox is a digital library service that lets you borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, and even "ePress" titles like magazines from your local library at absolutely no cost. It is specifically designed to be easy to use, making it feel like you have a local library right in your pocket. The key features and benefits include

• No late fees: Items are automatically returned after 20 days, so you never have to worry about overdue fines.
• Unlimited access: Unlike many digital services, BorrowBox offers special collections that you can borrow instantly with no waiting lists.
• Read anywhere: The app is compatible with phones, tablets, laptops, and eReaders, allowing for seamless reading or listening while you walk or commute.
• Simple setup: You only need your library card number and PIN to get started.

Learn more and get started at: borrowbox.com

Libby.

Developed by OverDrive, Libby is a highly polished, user-friendly app that connects you to your library’s digital catalogue. It is widely praised for its modern interface and robust feature set that rivals many paid subscription services.
Key Features and Benefits:

• Customisation: You can adjust font sizes, background colours (including dark mode), and even playback speeds for audiobooks.
• Kindle integration: For readers in the U.S., Libby allows you to send borrowed eBooks directly to your Kindle device.
• On-the-go listening: Libby supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to enjoy audiobooks hands-free while driving.
• Deep search: This feature helps you discover titles not currently in your library’s collection and notifies you if they become available.
• Offline access: Titles are automatically downloaded so you can keep reading even without an internet connection.

Learn more and get started at: libbyapp.com

Takeaway

Both platforms are completely free, legal, and ad-free, as they are powered by public library systems. While BorrowBox is fantastic for its "unlimited access" collections and local library feel, Libby offers a more tech-forward experience with its Kindle and car integrations.

The best part? You don't have to choose, as you can use both to ensure you always have your next great story or latest magazine ready to go!

Scent of Jasmine

Lynda Fletcher (author of "An American Rose in England") in her Romance series, has just published her second short story.

"Seeking a country retreat so that he can write that novel he has in his head, Matt is not prepared for the shockwave that is Jasmine Eleanor Hardy, known as Ellie. Nor was she expecting to find her Romeo when she applies for a job with him. But the path of true love does not run smoothly - the mistakes and misunderstandings that keep them separate emotionally have to be dealt with first... and also some unfounded jealousy."

Pages: 66
Format: Kindle
Available to buy on Amazon/Kindle.