Conversational Cajun French 1 (French Edition)
The Cajun language has been passed on by word of mouth for more than two hundred years. The authors approximate that 60 percent of Cajun French vocabulary can be found in any standard French dictionary. The remaining 40 percent is comprised of words with origins in other languages or words that are unique to Cajun French. "Tabasco" is an originally Spanish word that has ensconced itself in the Cajun language to the point of almost becoming synonymous with the entire culture. Indian and African words, like "bayou" and "gombo," respectively, have also found their way into the language. Furthermore, Cajuns often shorten words and run words together. In standard French, "à cette heure" means "at this time" or "now." When spoken quickly, this becomes "aseteur," which is how the Cajuns pronounce it.   While complex, the Cajun language does not have to be complicated. Authors Randall P. Whatley and Harry Jannise, both Cajuns, believe that their language can be taught and written, just like standard French or Spanish. Their book, Conversational Cajun French I, introduces the Cajun language to the reader. This companion CD, narrated by Whatley, provides the crucial pronunciation necessary to learn this beautiful, and until now, elusive, language.