Importance of the Ulster-Scots language

by Jim Millar, director of language and education, Ulster-Scots Agency

A quick glance through the paages of 'The Ulster-Scot' reveals that Ulster-Scots cultural activity continues to thrive in our communities.  Large numbers of us are participating in dance, music and literature as well as  in historically based pursuits.  Its all great crack and I suppose that's why we do it.  However, it's also a further recognition of a deep-seated need for expression of an Ulster-Scots cultural identity throughout the ancient kingdom of Ulster.  It's a way of expressing who we are and what our values are.

  Language is another expression of who we are and the presence of so much written Ulster-Scots on these pages supports the view that 'the language a person speaks is part and parcel of their identity and culture.' 

  Regrettably, though there are far too many examples where people who have been interested in the Ulster-Scots language have been discouraged in their attempts to use the vernacular.  Whether it's in the written form or in daily spoken communication, whether as children at school or as adults, this disregard for Ulster-Scots has had a big impact on the linguistic credibility of the 'Hamely Tongue'.

  One of the more regularly heard criticisms regarding the use of Ulster-Scots is that it is simply just 'bad English'.  The thought that those of us who use Ulster-Scots do so because they cannot use English effectively is absurd.  I don't think that overseas students attempting to learn English, speak Ulster-Scots when errors occur in their vocabulary or pronunciation.  

  I never ever heard some one being described as 'heich-heidit' by mistake.  It is well over 20 years ago that I first heard that phrase used at the Giant's Causeway when a hardy old Portrush man used it to describe some one who we both knew and who we regarded as more than a wee bit arrogant. There was no mistake in its use then!

  Old Sammy was a great Ulster-Scots speaker, and he used a wide range of words that were so expressive.  Another regularly used phrase by Sammy was his description of someone as 'lang-luggit', usually used to describe some one who was always trying to find out too much about other people's business. 

  Sammy's vocabulary was richly descriptive using words like 'targe' to describe a lady friend who was upset with him and 'tyke' to make reference to a wee lad that was a bit rough and ready. 

  Sadly, Sammy is long gone and with him went the opportunity to listen to his use of Ulster-Scots. There was always the chance that when you were in his company, you would pick up more of his style of word use.  Because of this there was always the chance that you might be able to develop your own understanding and skill in the use of the vernacular.

  If 'oul' Sammy was about today, he'd probably be in great demand as a story teller and an entertainer.

  Today, most Ulster-Scots language enthusiasts will tell you that the language is important as it underpins the Ulster-Scots cultural identity and helps us understand more fully why we have particular values and beliefs.  For that reason alone, yes language retention is so important.

  However for me, another important reason for ensuring the survival of Ulster-Scots is that it offers a fascinating and enjoyable means of communication that is seriously good fun for both speaker and listener. 

  I suppose that may be one of the reasons why many of us are increasingly interested in reading texts that are written in Ulster-Scots.  There is a lot to choose from and its always worth beginning that process by looking at the work of the 'Weaver Poets'.

  Some one once said that 'if you limit people's speech, you limit their thoughts'.  Given that Ulster-Scots has established its credentials in the United Kingdom, Irish and European Parliaments, perhaps we should now be developing the confidence to dwell more regularly on the contribution that language can play in our cultural development.  The Ulster-Scots have never taken kindly to having their thoughts dismissed.