The Dictionary of Lost Words

Introduction

The Dictionary of Lost Words, penned by Pip Williams, stands as a literary gem that shines a light on the significance of words, language, and the stories they carry. Published in 2020, this historical fiction novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of a young woman, highlighting the power of language and its impact on society, particularly for women, during a time of great social change. In this article, we delve into the profound themes, captivating narrative, and the historical context of The Dictionary of Lost Words while exploring its relevance in contemporary times.

Synopsis of The Dictionary of Lost Words

Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Oxford, England, The Dictionary of Lost Words follows the life of Esme Nicoll, the daughter of one of the lexicographers working on the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). Esme's father, inspired by the scholarly pursuit of cataloging the English language, meticulously compiles words deemed fit for the dictionary. However, the young Esme finds herself captivated by the words discarded, overlooked, and marginalized - the words spoken by women and the lower classes.

In the world of the OED, the male perspective dominates language, overlooking the rich linguistic contributions of women and their everyday experiences. Esme embarks on a journey to collect these "lost words," weaving together the voices of women who have been silenced by history, class, and gender. Through her experiences and interactions with various characters, including the suffragettes, Esme discovers the transformative power of language in shaping social norms and individual identities.

Themes Explored

1. Language as a Reflection of Society: The novel examines how the language we use reflects societal norms, biases, and power structures. Esme's quest to compile a dictionary of "lost words" demonstrates the existence of a gendered and class-based hierarchy in language during that era.

2. Female Agency and Empowerment: Esme's journey mirrors the struggle for female agency and empowerment during the suffragette movement. The novel highlights the importance of reclaiming and amplifying women's voices to challenge traditional gender roles.

3. Identity and Belonging: Esme's dual identity as a daughter of a lexicographer and as a woman passionate about overlooked words raises questions of identity and belonging. Her search for a sense of self showcases the power of language in shaping individuality.

4. Historical Context and Social Change: The novel is steeped in the historical context of the women's suffrage movement, providing readers with insights into the challenges faced by women striving for social change during a time of resistance and prejudice.

Relevance in Contemporary Times

The Dictionary of Lost Words resonates with readers in the modern era due to its exploration of timeless themes that continue to impact society today. In the 21st century, language remains a potent force in shaping public opinion, cultural norms, and perceptions of different genders, races, and social classes. The novel's exploration of lost and forgotten words serves as a metaphor for the ongoing struggle to give voice to marginalized communities.

Moreover, the book serves as a poignant reminder that the fight for gender equality is an ongoing journey. While significant progress has been made, there are still language-related challenges, such as the use of gender-neutral terms, combating sexist language, and promoting inclusive language that respects the identities of all individuals.

Conclusion

The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams serves as a literary masterpiece that beautifully intertwines history, language, and the indomitable spirit of women striving for recognition and equality. Through the eyes of Esme Nicoll, the novel skillfully captures the power of language to shape society and individual lives. With its thought-provoking themes and historical context, the novel continues to resonate with readers, inspiring them to value and celebrate the diverse voices that make up the rich tapestry of the English language. As we continue to evolve, The Dictionary of Lost Words reminds us of the importance of preserving and cherishing language as a reflection of our shared humanity.