Métivier was born on 29 January 1790 and is believed to have lived in Fountain Street in his early years. Some of his poetry focuses on this. As a young man Métivier studied in England and Scotland and was destined for a career in medicine before focusing on language and literature. His poems were routinely published in Guernsey's newspapers of the day and Métivier is said to have described himself as Guernsey's "national poet".

Among his legacies was the first dictionary produced of the Norman language in the Channel Islands. Métivier's Dictionnaire Franco-Normand was published in 1870, eleven years before his death at 91. He and other poets of the time were also responsible for a move towards satirical and political publications in the Channel Islands which combined with his other works led Victor Hugo to describe his as "Guernsey's Burns". 

Pictured: George Métivier (l) and Victor Hugo (r)

As part of the continuing drive to promote the use of Guernsey French as well as other traditional aspects of local culture, the first ever Métivier Night has been planned with the organisers saying the event will "celebrate Guernsey language in poetry, spoken word and song".

Jo Dowding from the Language Commission says: "sometimes we hear that Guernsey French isn't a proper language because it's never been written down. In fact, Guernesiais has a literary heritage to be proud of. Events like this help raise the profile of the language and give chances for people to speak it".

The event will include poetry readings and songs, with some performed as a duet in Guernesiais and English.

Ms Dowding says those knowing nothing of the language will be catered for, but the bar will only take orders in Guernesiais: "handouts will be provided for those who know nothing of the language to ensure they can stay well refreshed!"

The event at Torteval Church Hall is free, with doors open from 19:00 and supper served at 19:45. Everyone is asked to bring a dish to share.

Pictured above: George Métivier (images from Wikipedia)