Parallel Worlds

Sam but different
Ha’in, fae da start, mair as ee wye o spaekin,
O makkin sense o things, we learn ta fit
Whit we say to whit’s lippened. Takk pity apo dem
At’s born to wan tongue; dem at nivver preeve
Maet fae idder tables. Raised wi twa languages is unconscious faestin; twa wyes o tinkin.
Een extends da tidder; can shaa wis anidder wirld
Yet foo aa wirlds is jost da sam, but different.

De Luca's languages (Shetlandic, English, Scots) have given her her identities and her expression. Includes a brief overview of the Shetlandic dialect and origins and translation of terms into English.

Read by Christine.

Christine's first two collections of poetry each won the Shetland Literary Prize and her work has been translated into more than a dozen languages. Parallel Worlds is an accomplished collection that transcends the parochial and personal to create honest, universal beauty.

With poems in both Shetlandic and English, Parallel Worlds explores the two worlds circumscribed in thought and experience by the two languages and cultures of Christine's experience. For those accustomed to the Shetlandic language, here is a rare and rich indigenous talent whose enjoyment in what is, after all, her mother tongue is obvious. Even for those with no knowledge of Shetlandic, the natural vibrancy of the language is tangible, and a brief introductory overview of the language, as well as a glossary of terms accompanying each poem, ensure that the expressive beauty of Parallel Worlds is immediately accessible to everyone.