Phrase Books
Dialogue is one of the most important tools a writer can have to build a character. Many authors try to use Elvish to give the dialogue a more authentic feel, and it should work. After all, Tolkien used this trick very successfully. However, there's a very big difference between Tolkien and the Elvish sprinkling writer. Tolkien actually knew Elvish; and most of the time, the author does not. Because of this handy cap, many writers fall victim to Grelvish. Fear no longer! Here is a trustworthy source for Elvish dialogue.
- Sindarin Phrase Book - Communicate with all Elves and Gondorians in the Second and Third Ages.
- Quenya Phrase Book - Communicate with the Noldor before the First Age and the Elves in Valinor.
- Adûnaic Phrase Book - Communicate with the Men of Númenor in the Second Age.
- Black Speech Curses - Swear like an Orc!
- Elven Wedding Vows - For Elven marriages in Valinor and in Middle-earth during the Second through Fourth Ages.
If you want an Elvish section on your website, I put this little phrasebook together just for you: 101 Sindarin Phrases (opens in new window).
See Also
- How to write dialogue for Middle-earth characters.
- Why Random Elvish should be avoided in Lord of the Rings fan fiction By Nurvingiel
If you need to request dialogue, visit Need Help? or the forum, Peth Pêd Peth!