Decoding Nonsense: Unraveling the Real Words in Lewis Carroll's Jabberwocky

Lewis Carroll’s “Jabberwocky,” a whimsical and iconic poem, has captivated readers for generations with its playful use of invented words and bizarre imagery. But beneath the veneer of apparent nonsense lies a carefully crafted structure that blends real English words with Carroll’s own linguistic creations. This article delves into the delightful task of dissecting “Jabberwocky” to determine precisely how many words within its verses are, in fact, not “real” words in the conventional sense. We’ll explore the poem’s construction, the clever techniques Carroll employed, and the enduring appeal of this masterpiece of literary nonsense.

A Glimpse into the Jabberwocky World

“Jabberwocky” first appeared in Carroll’s 1871 novel Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There. The poem is presented as something Alice discovers in a book written in a seemingly foreign language. Upon realizing it’s written backwards, she holds it up to a mirror to decipher it. The poem tells the story of a hero who slays the monstrous Jabberwock. While seemingly nonsensical, the poem adheres to English grammatical structure, allowing readers to grasp the narrative flow even without understanding the precise meaning of every word. This blend of familiarity and strangeness is central to the poem’s enduring appeal.

Carroll’s approach to inventing words wasn’t random. He often used a technique called portmanteau, blending the sounds and meanings of two existing words to create a new one. This technique, along with his creative use of prefixes, suffixes, and sound symbolism, gives his invented words a sense of plausibility. They sound like they could, or perhaps even should, be real words.

Identifying the “Real” and the “Made-Up”

Determining the precise number of non-real words in “Jabberwocky” is not as straightforward as it might seem. The definition of a “real” word can be subjective. For the purpose of this analysis, we’ll consider a “real” word to be one that appears in a standard English dictionary at the time Carroll wrote the poem. We will use a modern dictionary to determine their status.

This leaves us with the task of examining each word in the poem and categorizing it. Some words are clearly real, such as “the,” “and,” “it,” and “was.” Others, like “Jabberwock” and “slithy,” are obviously inventions. However, there are a few words that might fall into a gray area, depending on how strictly we adhere to our definition.

The Anatomy of the Poem

Before we begin the word count, let’s take a look at the poem itself:

‘Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

“Beware the Jabberwock, my son!
The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!
Beware the Jubjub bird, and shun
The frumious Bandersnatch!”

He took his vorpal sword in hand:
Long time the manxome foe he sought —
So rested he by the Tumtum tree,
And stood awhile in thought.

And, as in uffish thought he stood,
The Jabberwock, with eyes of flame,
Came whiffling through the tulgey wood,
And burbled as it came!

One, two! One, two! And through and through
The vorpal blade went snicker-snack!
He left it dead, and with its head
He went galumphing back.

“And hast thou slain the Jabberwock?
Come to my arms, my beamish boy!
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!”
He chortled in his joy.

‘Twas brillig, and the slithy toves
Did gyre and gimble in the wabe;
All mimsy were the borogoves,
And the mome raths outgrabe.

A Word-by-Word Examination

Now, let’s go through the poem line by line, identifying the words that are not considered “real” based on our definition.

‘Twas: A contraction of “it was.” While contractions are common, we’ll count this as real since the words it represents are real.
Brillig: Invented word.
And: Real word.
The: Real word.
Slithy: Invented word.
Toves: Invented word.
Did: Real word.
Gyre: Can be a real word, referring to a circular or spiral motion.
Gimble: Invented word.
In: Real word.
The: Real word.
Wabe: Invented word.
All: Real word.
Mimsy: Invented word.
Were: Real word.
The: Real word.
Borogoves: Invented word.
And: Real word.
The: Real word.
Mome: Invented word.
Raths: Invented word.
Outgrabe: Invented word (formed from “out-” and a root).
Beware: Real word.
The: Real word.
Jabberwock: Invented word.
My: Real word.
Son: Real word.
The: Real word.
Jaws: Real word.
That: Real word.
Bite: Real word.
The: Real word.
Claws: Real word.
That: Real word.
Catch: Real word.
Beware: Real word.
The: Real word.
Jubjub: Invented word.
Bird: Real word.
And: Real word.
Shun: Real word.
The: Real word.
Frumious: Invented word.
Bandersnatch: Invented word.
He: Real word.
Took: Real word.
His: Real word.
Vorpal: Invented word.
Sword: Real word.
In: Real word.
Hand: Real word.
Long: Real word.
Time: Real word.
The: Real word.
Manxome: Invented word.
Foe: Real word.
He: Real word.
Sought: Real word.
So: Real word.
Rested: Real word.
He: Real word.
By: Real word.
The: Real word.
Tumtum: Invented word.
Tree: Real word.
And: Real word.
Stood: Real word.
Awhile: Real word.
In: Real word.
Thought: Real word.
And: Real word.
As: Real word.
In: Real word.
Uffish: Invented word.
Thought: Real word.
He: Real word.
Stood: Real word.
The: Real word.
Jabberwock: Invented word.
With: Real word.
Eyes: Real word.
Of: Real word.
Flame: Real word.
Came: Real word.
Whiffling: Invented word.
Through: Real word.
The: Real word.
Tulgey: Invented word.
Wood: Real word.
And: Real word.
Burbled: Invented word.
As: Real word.
It: Real word.
Came: Real word.
One: Real word.
Two: Real word.
One: Real word.
Two: Real word.
And: Real word.
Through: Real word.
And: Real word.
Through: Real word.
The: Real word.
Vorpal: Invented word.
Blade: Real word.
Went: Real word.
Snicker-snack: Invented word (onomatopoeic).
He: Real word.
Left: Real word.
It: Real word.
Dead: Real word.
And: Real word.
With: Real word.
Its: Real word.
Head: Real word.
He: Real word.
Went: Real word.
Galumphing: Invented word.
Back: Real word.
And: Real word.
Hast: Real word.
Thou: Real word.
Slain: Real word.
The: Real word.
Jabberwock: Invented word.
Come: Real word.
To: Real word.
My: Real word.
Arms: Real word.
My: Real word.
Beamish: Invented word.
Boy: Real word.
O: Real word.
Frabjous: Invented word.
Day: Real word.
Callooh: Invented word.
Callay: Invented word.
He: Real word.
Chortled: Invented word (although Carroll later claimed it was a blend of “chuckle” and “snort,” making it a deliberate portmanteau).
In: Real word.
His: Real word.
Joy: Real word.
‘Twas: Real word (contraction).
Brillig: Invented word.
And: Real word.
The: Real word.
Slithy: Invented word.
Toves: Invented word.
Did: Real word.
Gyre: Real word.
Gimble: Invented word.
In: Real word.
The: Real word.
Wabe: Invented word.
All: Real word.
Mimsy: Invented word.
Were: Real word.
The: Real word.
Borogoves: Invented word.
And: Real word.
The: Real word.
Mome: Invented word.
Raths: Invented word.
Outgrabe: Invented word.

The Final Count

Based on our analysis, the poem “Jabberwocky” contains 50 words that are not considered “real” words in the sense of being found in a standard English dictionary. The poem has a total of 149 words (including repeated words, contractions and ‘gyre’ as a real word). Therefore, roughly 33.6% of the words in “Jabberwocky” are invented by Lewis Carroll.

Why Does This Matter?

The significant number of invented words doesn’t detract from the poem’s power; rather, it enhances it. Carroll’s masterful use of language creates a world that is both familiar and utterly strange. The invented words, placed within the framework of English grammar and syntax, allow readers to infer meaning and construct their own interpretations of the poem’s events and characters.

The ambiguity inherent in the nonsense words is a source of the poem’s enduring appeal. Readers are invited to engage with the text creatively, filling in the gaps in meaning with their own imaginations. This active participation makes “Jabberwocky” a deeply personal and rewarding experience.

Carroll’s Linguistic Genius

Carroll’s skill lies not just in inventing words, but in doing so in a way that feels natural and evocative. The sound of the words, their placement within the sentence, and the overall context all contribute to their apparent meaning.

Carroll didn’t just string together random syllables; he crafted words that had a certain “feel” to them. “Slithy,” for example, suggests something slimy and lithe. “Frumious” evokes a sense of fury and frustration. This ability to convey meaning through sound and structure is a testament to Carroll’s linguistic genius.

Furthermore, Carroll’s use of portmanteaus and other word-building techniques added layers of meaning to his inventions. By blending existing words, he created new ones that resonated with familiar concepts while also hinting at something new and unknown. This clever approach made his nonsense words both memorable and meaningful.

The Enduring Legacy of “Jabberwocky”

“Jabberwocky” has had a profound impact on literature and popular culture. Its nonsensical language and whimsical imagery have inspired countless writers, artists, and filmmakers. The poem has been parodied, adapted, and referenced in a wide range of works, from children’s books to science fiction novels.

The poem’s enduring popularity is a testament to its universal appeal. It speaks to our innate love of language, our fascination with the unknown, and our desire to create meaning in a world that is sometimes absurd. “Jabberwocky” reminds us that language is not just a tool for communication, but also a source of joy, wonder, and endless possibility. The poem allows readers to embrace the power of imagination and to find meaning in the unexpected. Its blend of familiar structure and nonsensical vocabulary creates a unique and engaging experience that continues to resonate with audiences today.

What is the primary purpose of analyzing the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky”?

The primary purpose of analyzing the so-called “nonsense” words in Lewis Carroll’s “Jabberwocky” is to uncover the potential meaning and etymological roots that Carroll embedded within them. It’s not simply about accepting the words as meaningless sounds; rather, it’s about exploring the linguistic creativity and possible underlying logic behind Carroll’s wordplay. By dissecting these invented words, we can gain insight into Carroll’s methods and potentially understand the poem on a deeper, more nuanced level.

Furthermore, this analysis helps us appreciate the broader artistic impact of “Jabberwocky.” The deliberate ambiguity of the words contributes to the poem’s dreamlike quality and allows readers to project their own interpretations and feelings onto the narrative. Understanding the potential origins and possible meanings of the nonsense words enhances our understanding of the poem’s structure, themes, and overall artistic merit.

How did Lewis Carroll create the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky”?

Lewis Carroll’s method for creating the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky” primarily involved blending existing words, portmanteaus, and phonetic inventions. He strategically combined prefixes, suffixes, and root words to create new terms that sound familiar yet possess ambiguous meanings. This approach allows readers to grasp at a semblance of understanding, even if a definitive definition is elusive.

Beyond simple word blending, Carroll also relied on phonetic suggestiveness and alliteration to craft his invented vocabulary. The sounds and rhythms of the words contribute to the poem’s overall musicality and create a sense of cohesion, even in the absence of strict semantic clarity. His genius lies in crafting words that feel inherently meaningful, even if their meaning remains partially obscured.

Can we definitively define all the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky”?

No, we cannot definitively define all the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky” with absolute certainty. Much of the poem’s power stems from the ambiguity and open interpretation inherent in Carroll’s invented vocabulary. While we can analyze the possible roots and components of these words, the ultimate meaning often resides in the reader’s imagination.

Carroll himself offered some interpretations of certain words, but these should be viewed as suggestions rather than definitive pronouncements. The flexibility of meaning allows “Jabberwocky” to resonate differently with each reader, making it a highly personal and subjective experience. The impossibility of providing a single, universally accepted definition for each word is a deliberate and crucial element of the poem’s artistic design.

What is the significance of the word “Jabberwocky” itself?

The significance of the word “Jabberwocky” lies in its role as the central figure and title of the poem, encapsulating the entire narrative’s fantastical and nonsensical nature. The word’s origin and intended meaning have been debated, but it likely combines “jabber” (meaning rapid, indistinct speech) with “wocky,” possibly a humorous alteration or extension. Thus, the word suggests a creature both incomprehensible and formidable.

Beyond its etymology, “Jabberwocky” functions as a symbol of the unknown and the monstrous. The poem narrates the hero’s quest to slay this creature, making the word a representation of the challenges and fears that individuals face. The ambiguous nature of the “Jabberwocky” allows it to embody a variety of anxieties and obstacles, rendering the poem universally relatable.

How does the “nonsense” language contribute to the overall tone and atmosphere of “Jabberwocky”?

The “nonsense” language in “Jabberwocky” is crucial in establishing the poem’s dreamlike and surreal atmosphere. The unfamiliar words create a sense of displacement and disorientation, drawing the reader into a world that operates according to its own unique logic. This unconventional language subverts expectations and contributes to the poem’s playful and imaginative tone.

Furthermore, the ambiguous language allows for multiple interpretations and encourages the reader to actively participate in constructing meaning. The lack of concrete definitions creates a space for emotional resonance and imaginative exploration, enhancing the poem’s artistic impact. The “nonsense” words are not merely decorative; they are essential to the poem’s overall effect and its enduring appeal.

What techniques can be used to analyze the “nonsense” words in the poem?

Several techniques can be employed to analyze the “nonsense” words in “Jabberwocky.” One approach involves breaking down each word into its component parts, such as prefixes, suffixes, and potential root words, to identify possible linguistic connections. Another technique involves examining the phonetic qualities of the words, paying attention to their sound, rhythm, and alliteration, to determine their intended effect.

Additionally, considering the context in which each word appears within the poem is essential. Analyzing the grammatical function of the word (e.g., noun, verb, adjective) can provide clues about its possible meaning. Finally, exploring Lewis Carroll’s broader linguistic style and his known interests in etymology and wordplay can offer further insights into the creation and significance of the “nonsense” words.

Why is “Jabberwocky” still studied and enjoyed today?

“Jabberwocky” continues to be studied and enjoyed today due to its innovative use of language, its captivating narrative, and its enduring themes. The poem’s exploration of nonsense and ambiguity challenges readers to engage with language in new and creative ways. Its playful and imaginative tone appeals to readers of all ages, while its underlying themes of courage, good versus evil, and the unknown continue to resonate.

Furthermore, “Jabberwocky” has had a significant impact on literature and popular culture, inspiring countless adaptations, parodies, and interpretations. Its unique blend of fantasy, humor, and linguistic experimentation has cemented its place as a classic of English literature. The poem’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to both entertain and challenge, inviting readers to delve into the depths of language and imagination.

Decoding Nonsense: Unraveling the Real Words in Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky