Polari, a secret language used by gay men in Britain in the mid-20th century, is a fascinating and little-known piece of LGBTQ+ history. Often referred to as the “lost language of Polari,” it was a unique vernacular used by members of the gay community to communicate with one another in a time when being openly gay was illegal in the UK.

Polari had its roots in the British theatrical and circus communities, where it was used as a type of code language to communicate discreetly about gay or queer topics. The language was made up of a combination of Italian, Romani, Yiddish, Cockney rhyming slang, and other languages, creating a distinct and secretive lexicon that was both playful and subversive.

One of the most interesting aspects of Polari was its ability to adapt and evolve over time. As new words and phrases entered the lexicon, they were integrated into the language seamlessly, allowing Polari speakers to stay ahead of the authorities who were trying to crack down on gay culture.

In addition to being a means of communication, Polari also served as a form of cultural resistance. By creating their own language, gay men were able to carve out a space for themselves in a society that was largely hostile to their existence. The use of Polari became a way for gay men to assert their identities and create a sense of community and solidarity in the face of discrimination and persecution.

Despite its importance in British gay history, Polari fell out of use in the late 20th century as attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people began to shift and the need for a secret language waned. However, in recent years there has been a renewed interest in Polari, with scholars and activists working to preserve and celebrate this unique part of LGBTQ+ history.

Today, Polari is often used as a way to reclaim and celebrate queer heritage, with events like Polari nightclubs and performances taking place in cities across the UK. By looking back at the lost language of Polari, we can gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people in the past and the resilience and creativity they used to overcome them.

While Polari may have been a secret language used by a marginalized community, its legacy lives on as a testament to the power of language and the importance of queer voices in shaping our shared history. As we continue to fight for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, it’s important to remember the hidden histories and languages that have helped pave the way for progress and acceptance.