John Stephen Farmer

John Stephen Farmer
John Stephen Farmer (1854–1916) was an English lexicographer and author known for his contributions to slang dictionaries and Elizabethan literature. His notable works include "A Dictionary of Slang and Colloquial English," co-authored with W. E. Henley, which catalogued English slang from multiple periods. Farmer also edited collections of early English plays, including "The Tudor Facsimile Texts," a series of facsimile reproductions of Elizabethan and Jacobean dramas. His works remain valuable resources for the study of historical English and its informal uses.

Author's Books:


FOREWORDS When Harrison Ainsworth, in his preface to Rookwood, claimed tobe "the first to write a purely flash song" he was very wide of themark. As a matter of fact, "Nix my doll, pals, fake away!" had beenanticipated, in its treatment of canting phraseology, by nearly three centuries, and subsequently, by authors whose names stand high, in other respects, in English literature. The... more...

INTRODUCTION. Nash's "CHOISE OF VALENTINES" has apparently come down to us only in manuscript form. It is extremely doubtful (Oldys notwithstanding), whether the poem was ever before accorded the dignity of print. Nor would it now be deemed worthy of such were the only considerations those of literary merit or intrinsic value: truth to tell there is little of either to recommend it. But,... more...