The Klingon Language Institute
In operation since 1992, the Klingon Language Institute continues its
mission of bringing together individuals interested in the study of Klingon
linguistics and culture, and providing a forum for discussion and the
exchange of ideas. Our diverse membership includes Star Trek
fans with curiosity and questions about Klingon language, RP gamers wishing
to lend some authenticity to a Klingon character, as well as students and
professionals in the fields of linguistics, philology, computer science,
and psychology who see the Klingon language as a useful metaphor in the
classroom or simply wish to mix vocation with avocation. Though based in
the USA, the Institute's efforts actually have international extent,
currently reaching thirty countries, and all seven continents.
The phenomenon of Klingon language has no parallel. While others have
invented artificial languages, even other languages crafted for fictional
creatures, Klingon represents one of the rare times when a trained linguist
has taken up the task of creating a language for aliens. Add to this
thirty years of the Star Trek phenomenon, a mythos that has
permeated popular culture and spread around the globe. These factors begin
to explain the popularity of the warriors' tongue.
If you want to get started with the Klingon language, you need Marc
Okrand's The Klingon Dictionary published by Pocket Books
(ISBN 0-671-74559-X). Dr. Okrand invented the language for Paramount
Studios and has served as a consultant on several Star Trek films and for
episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation. We also encourage
you to purchase copies of Conversational Klingon (ISBN
0-671-79739-5) and Power Klingon (ISBN 0-671-87975-8), two
audio cassettes (also by Marc Okrand, with narration by Michael Dorn) which
can help you learn the sounds of Klingon and instruct you in some useful
phrases. If you live in the USA your local bookstore should have no
trouble ordering both of these, or you may order them
from this website.
HolQeD, our
quarterly journal, serves as the main vehicle of the Klingon Language
Institute. Each issue includes artwork, feature articles, and regular
columns discussing Klingon linguistics, language, and culture. In
addition, members' letters examining, commenting, and debating ideas and
arguments raised in previous issues also appear, supporting an atmosphere
of mutual respect and open discussion. An academic journal, not just
simply a newsletter, HolQeD utilizes blind peer
review, and so the Library of Congress and the Modern Language Association
catalogue it.
Whether you know only a few words or speak fluently, whether you've never
studied another language or can read and write more than a dozen, if you
have an interest in the Klingon language, I invite you to join us in our
exploration of the galaxy's fastest growing language.
Qapla'
Lawrence M. Schoen, Ph.D.KLI Director
Translated (kind of) by Mark Shoulson
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