In order for a person to understand any storyline it is important  that they, first, understand the language. The Shipping News by E. Anne Proulx consists of several terms specific to Newfoundland.

    Below are a few terms I came across while reading the novel. I hope you will find them useful !

Blasty Boughs -   Of the branches of a spruce or fir, dead and dry but with the needles, now red or brown, still adhering; such a branch which, used as kindling burns with a quick, fierce, crackling flame.

Fishing Banks - An undersea elevation or shoal forming a fishing ground.

Omaloor - A clumsy, stupid, simple- minded fellow.

Scruncheons- Bits of animal fat or fish liver, especially after its oil has been rendered out.

Tuckamore - Small stunted evergreen with gnarled spreading roots, forming closely matted ground cover on the barrens.

(Terms taken  from The Dictionary of Newfoundland English.  1998.)
 

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