Does Every Character in Fargo Have an Accent?

For viewers unfamiliar with the distinctive dialects of the American Midwest, the show Fargo can often sound like an alien language. Growing up in the north of England, subtitles were often a lifesaver during the early seasons of the show, as the Minnesota dialect was challenging to decipher. In this article, we explore the importance and authenticity of the accents in Fargo.

The Case of the Minnesota Accent

Minnesota, located in the frosty upper Midwest of the United States, is known for its unique forms of speech. In Fargo, characters speak with a combination of Minnesota-derived accents. This is not just for the sake of regional authenticity; it serves as a storytelling tool to emphasize the cold, sometimes hostile, and alienating environment of the show. The dialogue often seems to emanate from the thick, snowy air, making it harder to understand at times, akin to “ther erl serm ter sperk werthert yersn ther merths ernd ter herv ernly wern verl sernd”, as one birther put it.

Why Every Character Has an Accent

1. Azure County's Rural Flavor: The characters in the rural area of Azure County, where the action primarily takes place, possess a distinct accent rather than breaking the rules of their setting. This extends to many individuals in the town, reflecting the reality of regional speech patterns. The show’s creators strive for authenticity by ensuring that no one in the rural towns speaks with a neutral, standard American accent.

2. The Siren’s Call of Huey Long: In Fargo, Huey Long plays an essential role, and his Minnesota accent is another aspect of his character’s defining characteristics. Long’s accent is even more pronounced than Huey Long, the former governor of Louisiana, as the show’s creators have based the character on Huey Long’s legendary stump speech style. This accent not only adds a layer of richness to the character but also pays homage to the golden era of radio and live theater.

3. Better Understanding of HFAT: The HFAT (Hennepin, Ford, and Wright) counties set in the Twin Cities area of Minneapolis and St. Paul also feature heavily in the series. These areas are known for their metropolitan accents, which are markedly different from the rural dialects found in Azure County. While many urban characters have accents that align with the metro area, there are notable exceptions. The city isn’t entirely populated by characters with the accent, which is an intentional choice to maintain the show’s complexity and nuance.

Challenges of Capturing Authenticity

.Actor performances play a crucial role in capturing the authenticity of Minnesota accents. Viewers often comment on the necessity of subtitles or the need to turn up the volume to understand the characters. This isn’t just for dramatic effect; it’s a testament to the complexity and diversity of the dialect. The series’ creators often hire actors based on their ability to convincingly perform various accents, highlighting the importance of linguistic accuracy.

Another challenge is the regionalism of Fargo's linguistic landscape. Accents aren’t just consistent but also vary by community. From farm wives in the rural counties to cultured lawyers in the metro area, each character's accent is carefully crafted to reflect their background and personality.

Conclusion

The accents in Fargo's Minnesota setting are not just an aesthetic choice but a storytelling tool that underscores the show’s unique atmosphere. Whether immersive and challenging or nuanced and layered, the accents provide a rich tapestry that enhances the viewing experience and reflects the layered reality of the Midwest.