“Middle English is an exciting field – almost uncharted, I begin to think, because as soon as one turns detailed personal attention on to any little corner of it, the received notions and ideas seem to crumple up and fall to pieces – as far as language goes, at any rate.”
- January 3, 1892 – September 2, 1973
- Born in the Orange Free State (British)
- Author, linguist
- Wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and built the foundations of modern fantasy literature
Quote
“Middle English is an exciting field – almost uncharted, I begin to think, because as soon as one turns detailed personal attention on to any little corner of it, the received notions and ideas seem to crumple up and fall to pieces – as far as language goes, at any rate.”
Explanation
In this quote, Tolkien expresses his enthusiasm for Middle English, recognizing it as a field rich with complexities and unanswered questions. His observation that “received notions and ideas seem to crumple up and fall to pieces” points to the unpredictability of the language and its evolution, suggesting that the more one delves into Middle English, the more it challenges our assumptions about its structure, vocabulary, and use. Unlike languages that have more easily traceable and fixed rules, Middle English remains somewhat elusive, with its grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary still subject to debate and interpretation. This makes the study of Middle English both exciting and frustrating, as established ideas often break down in the face of new evidence or insights.
Tolkien, being a philologist, had a deep appreciation for the fluidity of language and its constant evolution. His academic work was heavily influenced by his studies in Old English, Middle English, and other ancient languages, which he saw as not only keys to understanding history but also as vehicles for creative expression. In this context, Middle English represented an exciting puzzle—an area where linguists could still discover new things and challenge old assumptions. His interest was not just academic, but also artistic—his works, especially The Lord of the Rings, were steeped in the tradition of ancient languages and myth, and his expertise in historical language structures enriched his fiction.
In modern times, this quote can apply to any field of study that feels underexplored or dynamic, where new discoveries continue to reshape our understanding. Much like in the study of languages, other disciplines—such as history, science, or philosophy—often reveal that our preconceptions and traditional models need to be revised as new information comes to light. The quote encourages an approach to learning that values curiosity and openness to change, acknowledging that what we think we know is always subject to challenge and evolution.
