Christopher Paolini
When I was writing the first draft of Eragon, I needed to invent a word that meant fire; it was supposed to come from an ancient language that is always used with magic. To begin my research, I flipped through a dictionary of word origins and eventually found an Old Norse word, brisingr, which meant fire. I loved it so much that I decided to base the rest of my language on Old Norse, so I went online and dug up dictionaries and guides to learn more. I invented words based on what I found, and then formed a system of grammar and a pronunciation guide to fit my world. Developing this was probably the most difficult part of writing the books. The dwarf and Urgal languages I created for Eragon were worked up completely from scratch.
More Answered Questions
Lindsey Mayoras
asked
Christopher Paolini:
Hi Christopher, huge fan of the Inheritance Cycle series! I know you are working on your sci-fi project/book but wanted to see if you have a time line for it. When can we expect it to hit the shelves? Really looking forward to reading it and was curious. Thanks!!
✨ A ✨
asked
Christopher Paolini:
Hi Christopher! I love your series so much...Though I still haven't gotten around to reading the fourth book [inheritance] I will soon. I have one question. How did you come up with the ancient language? Even the language the dwarfs and the urgles speak. Like what was your inspiration? It always amazed me when I read your books that you created such an amazing and detailed world. Not many authors go to such lengths.
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