Jabberwocky

Lewis Carroll

FAQs

What is "Jabberwocky" about?

Jabberwocky is a poem found in Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll. Though filled with nonsense words, the poem playfully tells a familiar hero's journey filled with danger, courage, and triumph. In the poem, a father warns his son of a dangerous beast called the Jabberwock. However, the son ventures out and emerges victorious after slaying the beast, much to his father’s joy and amazement.

How many words in "Jabberwocky" are made up or aren't real?

At a minimum, around 30 words in the poem are clearly invented. Examples include "Bandersnatch," "Jubjub bird," and "Jabberwock" itself. If we count these nonsensical words and evident portmanteaus of familiar words, there are around 40 or 50 made-up words in Jabberwocky. Lewis Carroll himself intended some ambiguity in the poem, enjoying the reader's playful interpretation of the words.

What is the meaning or significance of "Jabberwocky?"

It is known as a world-famous nonsense poem by Lewis Carroll, featured in "Through the Looking-Glass." Its significance lies in its whimsical language and imaginative portrayal of a fantastical creature, the Jabberwock. The poem showcases Carroll's mastery of wordplay, creating a surreal atmosphere that challenges conventional understanding while inviting readers to embrace creativity and interpretation. The term "jabber" implies nonsensical or meaningless speech, fitting for a creature that embodies the absurdity and mystery of Wonderland.

Who wrote the poem "Jabberwocky?"

It was written by Lewis Carroll, the pen name of Charles Lutwidge Dodgson. He is renowned for being the author of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." The poem, which features in the aforementioned book's sequel, "Through the Looking-Glass," is a prominent example of his mastery of wordplay and nonsense literature.

What type of poem is "Jabberwocky?"

It is a nonsense poem that is characterized by its whimsical language and fantastical imagery. It follows a ballad-like structure with four-line stanzas, but its rhyme scheme is irregular, adding to its nonsensical charm.