Great topic, Eomer, especially since I have this argument with my friend Bryan all the time. He claims it's not a real language because it's not used in "the real world". Let us, however, cite the great Dictionary.com:
Quote:
lan·guage n.
1.
a. Communication of thoughts and feelings through a system of arbitrary signals, such as voice sounds, gestures, or written symbols.
b. Such a system including its rules for combining its components, such as words.
c. Such a system as used by a nation, people, or other distinct community; often contrasted with dialect.
2.
a. A system of signs, symbols, gestures, or rules used in communicating: the language of algebra.
b. Computer Science. A system of symbols and rules used for communication with or between computers.
3. Body language; kinesics.
4. The special vocabulary and usages of a scientific, professional, or other group: “his total mastery of screen languagecamera placement, editingand his handling of actors” (Jack Kroll).
5. A characteristic style of speech or writing: Shakespearean language.
6. A particular manner of expression: profane language; persuasive language.
7. The manner or means of communication between living creatures other than humans: the language of dolphins.
8. Verbal communication as a subject of study.
9. The wording of a legal document or statute as distinct from the spirit.
|
Okay, so maybe elves and dolphins are a little different...
But if language is really just a means of communication, then Quenya is a language. It can be used for communication -- perhaps not complete communication to express every idea, but lots of "real world" languages have to steal words from other languages in order to make up for a lack of a word to define a particular thing or idea. I say again: if language is really just a means of communication, then Quenya is a language. End of story.
Take that, Bryan.
