To make con worlds more realistic, authors should consider incorporating multiple languages and portraying them accurately.
Authors should avoid using labels such as 'old' or 'high' to describe prestige or higher register languages in their con worlds.
Deep dives
Realistic Multilingualism in Con Worlds
Multilingualism is a common situation in the real world, especially in pre-modern societies. However, many fantasy novels and science fiction works often simplify language diversity. This is often attributed to the fact that many of these works are written by monolingual English speakers. In reality, different regions of the world see a wide variety of languages spoken. To make con worlds more realistic, authors should consider incorporating multiple languages and portraying them accurately. This can involve creating naming languages or using indigenous languages for place names and cultural references. Code switching and language mixtures, along with the role of interpreters, can also add depth to a con world's language dynamics.
The Issue with 'Old, High' Language Labels
Authors should avoid using labels such as 'old' or 'high' to describe prestige or higher register languages in their con worlds. These labels can be misleading and may not accurately reflect linguistic realities. For example, 'old high elvish' might evoke images of aging hippie elves rather than conveying a sense of prestige or formality. Instead, authors should consider using more descriptive terms that are less prone to misinterpretation.
The Unreliability of Language Descriptions
Authors often attempt to provide descriptions of languages in their works, even if they haven't fully constructed those languages. However, vague descriptions like 'guttural' or 'cadence' can be unhelpful and confusing for readers. These descriptions may not accurately convey what the author intends. For authors who want to include language details without creating full conlangs, it may be better to focus on specific linguistic aspects or use expertly written code-switching and language mixing to portray linguistic diversity and complexity within the narrative.
Language Mechanics in Role-playing Games
Role-playing games often have language mechanics to determine a character's language skills. However, most gaming groups prefer simplified language systems that allow for easy understanding and communication among players. Incorporating full conlangs might not be practical or desired in these games. Instead, authors and game designers can opt for naming languages or procedurally generated gibberish to add flavor, symbolism, or restrict communication between factions.
This week, we have a relatively short discussion on the creation and fictional portrayal of multilingual conworlds. It’s a linguistics-light topic, but we thought it might be useful. Links: Dragoman Feedback: Email: Azul*, guys: So, I’ve just got done with the Tone episode (#81), and at the end someone mentioned “bogolangs,” which put me in... Read more »
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode