Polari, also known as palare, is a language used by the LGBTQ+ community in Britain in the mid-20th century. It was a secret code used by gay men, drag queens, and other marginalized groups to communicate in a way that was unintelligible to those outside the community. However, as LGBTQ+ rights have progressed and acceptance has grown, the use of Polari dwindled over the years. But recently, there has been a resurgence of interest in this unique and colorful language.

Polari has a fascinating history, originating in the British theatrical and circus communities in the 19th century. It was a mixture of Italian, Romani, Yiddish, and Cockney rhyming slang, creating a distinctive lexicon that was both playful and subversive. Polari was used as a way for LGBTQ+ individuals to identify each other and create a sense of community in a society that was often hostile and discriminatory.

However, as societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals began to change in the late 20th century, the need for a secret language like Polari diminished. Many younger LGBTQ+ individuals were no longer exposed to the language, and it gradually fell out of use. But in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Polari, with queer scholars, linguists, and activists working to preserve and revive this important part of LGBTQ+ history.

One reason for the resurgence of Polari is a growing appreciation for its unique linguistic features. The language is full of playful words and phrases, many of them derived from rhyming slang or borrowing from other languages. Polari was also known for its campy humor and wit, with vocabulary that was both creative and subversive. For example, “bona” meant good or attractive, “palone” referred to a large woman, and “vada” meant to see or understand. These terms allowed LGBTQ+ individuals to communicate openly about their identities and experiences without fear of persecution.

In addition to its linguistic appeal, Polari is also being revived as a way to honor and preserve LGBTQ+ history. Many queer historians and activists see Polari as an important cultural artifact, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals in the past. By reviving and studying Polari, they hope to shed light on the experiences of those who came before them and celebrate the resilience and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community.

There are now Polari classes and workshops being offered in some LGBTQ+ communities, allowing people to learn and practice the language in a fun and inclusive environment. There are also online resources and dictionaries available for those interested in exploring Polari further. This revival of interest in Polari is a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of LGBTQ+ culture, and a reminder of the importance of preserving and honoring our history.

In a world where LGBTQ+ rights are still under threat and discrimination persists, the resurgence of Polari is a powerful statement of queer resilience and community. By reviving this unique language, LGBTQ+ individuals are reclaiming a part of their history and identity, and celebrating the rich tapestry of queer culture that has always existed beneath the surface. Polari may have once been a secret code, but now it is a proud and vibrant language that is making a comeback in the LGBTQ+ community.