C.B. Strike is a British detective series written by Robert Galbraith, the pseudonym of J.K. Rowling. The series features private detective Cormoran Strike and his assistant Robin Ellacott, as they solve complex cases in London.
One of the striking (pun intended) aspects of the series is the use of British English. While the language is not drastically different from American English, there are several nuances and colloquialisms that may be unfamiliar to non-British readers. In this post, we will explore some of the British English used in the C.B. Strike series.
Tea
Tea is a quintessentially British beverage, and it features heavily in the C.B. Strike series. In the first book, The Cuckoo’s Calling, Cormoran Strike offers Robin a cup of tea when she arrives for her job interview. Later in the series, characters are often seen drinking tea or offering it to others. However, it’s not just the act of drinking tea that is uniquely British – it’s the way they make it. British tea is typically served with milk and sugar, and there are even specific words for different levels of milkiness – “builder’s tea” is strong tea with a lot of milk, while “weak tea” has just a splash.
Slang
Like any country, Britain has its own set of slang terms that may be unfamiliar to outsiders. In the C.B. Strike series, characters use slang terms such as “knackered” (tired), “bloody” (an expletive), and “naff” (uncool or boring). These words may not be commonly used in American English, but they add a layer of authenticity to the dialogue and help to establish the British setting.
Swearing
British English is also known for its colourful swearing, and the C.B. Strike series is no exception. Characters frequently use words such as “bollocks” (testicles), “arse” (butt), and “bugger” (a mild expletive). While these words may be considered vulgar in some contexts, they are generally more accepted in British culture than in American culture.
Food
British cuisine is often maligned, but it has its own unique flavours and traditions. In the C.B. Strike series, characters eat a variety of British foods such as fish and chips, bangers and mash (sausages and mashed potatoes), and black pudding (a type of blood sausage). These dishes may not be familiar to non-British readers, but they add to the sense of place and help to establish the series’ British setting.
Place names
Finally, the C.B. Strike series is set in London, and the city’s geography plays a large role in the stories. Characters frequently visit different neighbourhoods such as Soho, Mayfair, and Whitechapel, and these names may not be immediately familiar to non-British readers. However, they help to establish the series’ sense of place and add to the overall atmosphere of the books.
In conclusion, the C.B. Strike series uses British English in a way that adds to the authenticity of the setting and the characters. From the way they make their tea to the slang they use, the language helps to establish the series’ uniquely British flavour. While some readers may find the language challenging at first, it ultimately adds to the richness and complexity of the books.