Diction in Angela's Ashes

An interesting way that McCourt displayed the cultural differences in the book is through the use of spelling. Frank uses different spelling to illustrate the different accents. For example, when Irish people are talking, McCourt spells his words in the form of an Irish accent. Some of these are "eejit" instead of idiot, "aisy" instead of easy, "o' " instead of of, "tay" intead of tea, and "mam" instead of mom. When Frank moves to America at the end of the book, the difference is evident because McCourt immitates the American accents. "Pawty" is used to display party. The spelling difference emphasizes the cultural difference as well, as Frank's father is often discriminated against for being from Northern Ireland, meaning his accent is strange. It is interesting that McCourt picked up on these differences and their importance so early on in his life. This definitely speaks to the time and culture in which he grew up.