An Interlude - Klingon Books

I'm spending the day today sitting and reading the three main tlhIngan Hol texts which changed my life so completely.

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These three books are, respectively, The Klingon Dictionary (TKD), The Klingon Way (TKW) and Klingon for the Galactic Traveler (KGT), all by Marc Okrand and all still currently available from Simon & Schuster and Amazon, among other online sources.

The Klingon Dictionary

The book which started it all, published in 1985, this is the most famous Klingon language resource and it is still in use and in print today.

All of the grammatical basics of tlhIngan Hol outlined in this blog originate from TKD. Ultimately, you will need TKD if you are to fully understand Klingon.

"The Klingon Dictionary is the first comprehensive sourcebook for Klingon language and syntax, including fundamental rules of grammar as well as words and expressions that illustrate the complex nature of Klingon culture. It features a precise pronunciation guide, rules for proper use of affixes and suffixes, and a small phrasebook with Klingon translations for essential expressions such as "Activate the transport beam," "Always trust your instincts," and the ever-popular "Surrender or die!""

The Klingon Way

More than a hundred Klingon phrases and sayings which, altogether, paint a picture of the passions, virtues and world view of the Klingons.

"Marc Okrand, the foremost authority on Klingon language and customs, offers the first distilled collection of proverbs and aphorisms from the most famous warriors in the galaxy. From fierce expressions of character ("A warrior's blood boils before the fire is hot") to enduring nuggets of practical advice ("To find ale, go into a bar"), these 200+ gems of wisdom, each offered in English and Klingon with explanatory notes, bring the rich tradition of Klingon philosophy to all the lesser races who have hitherto struggled in vain to comprehend the greatness of Klingon civilization."

Klingon for The Galactic Traveler

"Heghlu'meH QaQ jajvam It is a good day to die

"What is the proper response to this? What should I do?

"Now, with Klingon for the Galactic Traveler you will know.

"Organized into four easy-to-use sections, this book will guide your steps through the Klingon language and customs:

• The regional dialects of the Empire
• Common, everyday usage of the language
• The slang phrases and curses that color the Klingon vocabulary
• Most importantly, the proper verbal, physical, and cultural responses.

"A misspoken word to a Klingon, who is quick to take offense and even quicker to take action, could have dire consequences. This book is the indispensable guide for the galactic traveler."

I also just recently stumbled upon the following academic paper, which will shortly be very useful in this blog - Question Formation In Klingon [PDF].

Right. Break time's over. Time to get back to the grind.

Next: Pronouns.

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