A concise overview of Pip Williams’ novel, The Dictionary of Lost Words, typically focuses on the story of Esme Nicoll. Esme grows up beneath the sorting table in the Scriptorium where her lexicographer father and other men compile the first Oxford English Dictionary. She rescues discarded words deemed unsuitable for inclusion, compiling her own dictionary of forgotten language. This often reflects the experiences and perspectives of women and marginalized groups overlooked by the official lexicographers.
Such an overview offers valuable insight into the novel’s exploration of language, power, and social history. It highlights the inherent biases in how language is recorded and preserved, offering a feminist perspective on historical linguistic practices. By focusing on words deemed unimportant by the dominant culture, the narrative explores the significance of seemingly insignificant details and amplifies the voices of those often silenced. This exploration resonates with ongoing discussions about inclusive language and the representation of diverse experiences.
