What is dialect? In Chapter 1, dialect becomes an important part of the book. In Their Eyes, most conversations use the dialect of the rural South. Taking your time to understand what the dialect says will increase your appreciation of the book.

Analyzing Dialogue Directions: The following sentences from chapters 1-2 are written in dialect and contain figures of speech. Translate each phrase into standard, contemporary English that expresses its meaning. Janie: “I reckon they got me up in they mouth now.” (ch. 1)   Nanny: “Look lak she been livin’ through uh hundred years in January without one day of spring.” (ch. 2)