Poems and Songs in the Lancashire Dialect by Edwin Waugh offers a charming and authentic glimpse into the culture and history of Lancashire through its use of dialect. Waugh's poetry captures the essence of daily life in the region, from the struggles of the working class to the beauty of the countryside. His songs are filled with emotion and nostalgia, invoking a sense of pride and connection to the Lancashire people and their traditions.

The language used in the poems may be difficult for those unfamiliar with the Lancashire dialect, but it adds a unique and genuine touch to the work. Readers who take the time to decipher the dialect will be rewarded with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the poems.

Overall, Poems and Songs in the Lancashire Dialect is a delightful collection that showcases Waugh's talent for capturing the spirit of Lancashire in his writing. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region through the lens of poetry.

Book Description:
A selection of poems in the Lancashire dialect by the foremost exponent of the form. A printer by training, Edwin Waugh left his trade for secretarial work and began his literary career in 1852. His first dialect poem, 'Come whoam to thi' childer and me', was written at the Clarence Hotel, Manchester, on 10 June 1856 and published in the Manchester Examiner the following day. The best known Lancashire dialect poem of its day, it inspired numerous followers whose dialect poetry and prose provided an often nostalgic accompaniment to the sound and fury of the industrial revolution. This selection of dialect poems was published shortly after Waugh's death alongside a selection of his standard English poetry. It consists of the poems that editor George Milner judged to be presentable and is accompanied by a critical introduction and commentary on Waugh's use of the Rochdale variety of the Lancashire dialect.