Victorian Fan Language, Updated for Subway Riders:

Ten Key Expressions

by Holly Manley

1) DRAWING THE FAN ACROSS THE EYES

Victorian meaning: “I am sorry.”

On the subway:  “The express is going local.”

2) OPENING A FAN WIDE

Victorian meaning: "Wait for me.”

On the subway:  “We’re being held in the station.”

3) SHUTTING A FULLY OPENED FAN SLOWLY

Victorian meaning: "I promise to marry you.”

On the subway:  “You’re going to miss the train.”

4) THREATENING MOVEMENTS WITH A CLOSED FAN  

Victorian meaning:  "Do not be so imprudent.”

On the subway:  “Move in to the car.  Please.”

5) OPENING AND CLOSING THE FAN SEVERAL TIMES

Victorian meaning:  "You are cruel.”

On the subway:  “Turn your music down.”

6) HIDING THE EYES BEHIND AN OPEN FAN

Victorian meaning:  "I love you."

On the subway:  “Your fly is open.”

7) TWIRLING THE FAN IN THE LEFT HAND

Victorian meaning: "We are being watched.”

On the subway:  “There’s a bug on that seat.” 

8) DRAWING THE FAN THROUGH THE HAND

Victorian meaning:  "I hate you!”

On the subway:  “You took my seat.”

9) PRESENTING THE FAN SHUT

Victorian meaning:  "Do you love me?”

On the subway:  “Shall we take a cab?”

10) THE FAN PLACED NEAR THE HEART

Victorian meaning: "You have won my love.”

On the subway:   “The express is here.”

 


Holly Manley is a native New Yorker, lawyer and writer.