Slessor speaks on differences between UK and US

Former BBC documentary film director, Tim Slessor, spoke about differences between United States and the United Kingdom at this week’s Grave Lecture Series Tuesday evening in the King Library Room 111.

Slessor showed students and professors geographical, historical, and social differences between U.S. and U.K. His presentation, titled “Perceptions–Them and Us–U.K. and U.S.,” focused on the distinction of English language’s pronunciation, spelling, meaning, and modern features.

Slessor discussed the common terms and phrases that are said around the world, known as Americanisms. Examples included “okay” and “no comment.” Also, he presented the different analogies. For instance, Great Britain does not use terms “what’s up” and “go figure.”

A London native and long-time BBC documentary films director, Slessor, visited CSC the first time 49 years ago.

“I sent the request to the president of your college and got a very enthusiastic letter,” he said.

Slessor worked more than 30 years making BBC Nature documentary films. He has written several books about a variety of topics including his travels across the U.S. and Europe, historical editions, and government’s secrets of 20th century.

His book, “First Overland,” focused on the expedition from English Channel to Singapore.

Another publication, “More than Cowboys,” exposed the American West features and history.

A third, “Lying in State,” centered on how and why government hid facts during a world crisis and wars.

Slessor said he loves Chadron people because they “are friendly.” He also said he noticed a difference between CSC students in the 1960s and now.

Slessor will present his final lecture about his residency in Chadron, Wednesday, Nov. 19, in the CSC Sandoz Center.