This page shares our unique knowledge as Newfoundlanders of the many terms and concepts incorporated in The Shipping News that relate to our island and its culture and history. Click on our names to access our explanations of these terms.

Kelli-ann defines and explains a number of Newfoundland words and sayings. And Carla adds a few more.

Donna comments on Newfoundland sayings, Proulx's character descriptions, and so-called "Newfie jokes" in a very informative page.

Kurtis Baggs explains weather lore.  Nancy Parsons shares sayings related to weather and omens.

Tasha Reid shares knowledge of Newfoundland place names--and more! Jaime has a perspective on place names in the novel, too.

"Mummers and jannies" (p. 281) are explained by Rachel Alexander. And Margaret Bartlett adds her explanation.

Michael Dinn provides comment on Newfoundland cuisine and gives some recipes for the fare. Margaret Bennett dishes out some fishy recipes. And Wendy Cunard shares some traditional  cod recipes. Margaret Bartlett explains the importance of fish and shares her versions of the traditional recipes.

Jennifer Canning describes traditional Newfoundland wakes and funerals.

The rodney is defined by Sheila FitzPatrick.  Jaime O'Leary illustrates other boats familiar to Newfoundlanders.

Twenty-five facts about Newfoundland are provided by Shelly Perham.

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