The Language of Existence

by Vanya Dae'ia

At the beginning of time - as time is relevant to mortals - Lord Ao, the Overgod, shaped the realm in which we exist, known to scholars and historians as The Multiverse. What lies beyond this realm is a matter of speculation, pondered by philosophers, scholars, and curious souls, but perhaps not meant to be known by us. Within this realm, however, legends and tales tell that a language exists which empowers those who speak it to change the realm as they see fit. Surely, to learn the entirety of this language would transform an individual into a being of godly power, yet the question remains as to whether any mortal is capable of knowing, much less comprehending, such a vast and potent vocabulary.

The Words of Creation

Elements of lesser known lore, which lend credence to this theory of an omnipotent language, cite fragments known as "Words of Creation". It is said that these 'words' - broken bits of a greater knowledge - maintain their power despite being used in the absence of context which others would naturally provide. The influence of these words is limited only by their true meaning. In theory, one who comprehended the entirety of the word which describes our planet of Toril would have absolute and unlimited power over the world itself. Mountains would move at a whim, and oceans could be made to ebb with as little effort as taking a breath.

The identities of vast entities, forces, and concepts are, perhaps, beyond even the most exceptional of mortals, but the dictionary of this language includes a word for absolutely everything which exists in our realm, from the stars in the sky to the smallest speck of dust and beyond, and its potency is such that a fragment of a single word still retains great power. Such lesser words and fragments are the domain of True Namers.

True Naming

A mage who works with True Names seeks to learn and understand, through a variety of methods, the full and complete name of a person or object, in this language of creation. On this miniscule scale - relative to the size and scope of the known universe, and the words which define it - names become simple enough for an apt mind to know, given sufficient time and investigative prowess. Once a name is learned, the Knower can use this knowledge to summon, banish, charm, weaken, disable, or even kill the one who is named.

Less intimidating or direct than the names of mortal souls, but equally useful, are the words which describe creative forces. The concepts of industry, creativity, and inspiration can be called upon to empower both the body and mind of a craftsman. As well, the effects of a Magical Spell can be empowered with greater strength, influence, or longevity.

The Language of Magic

On a level comprehensible by common mortals lies the language of magic. To some, this involves the increasingly complex incantations, gestures, material components, and foci which manipulate The Weave. To others, this is a far more personal language, discovered and utilized through a direct connection with The Weave, allowing control through sheer force of will.

This language of mages is steeped in a great deal of mysticism and tradition. Finding any two mages who describe their art in the same way is a rarity, if they are not Master and Apprentice, or students of the same academy. Even then, a personal 'flavor' touches each and every mages individual understanding of magic.

A number of interpretations exist among scholarly mages. Some believe that power is derived directly from the words spoken and gestures made, meaning that anyone capable of precise mimicry can use magic. Others believe that the words and gestures represent a mental exercise used to forge a temporary connection with The Weave in order to command it. Others, still, believe that a deeper understanding of an incantation must be found, before it can be properly used, and that it is the understanding which allows control.

A similar division can be found between those mages gifted with a connection to The Weave. For some, control is difficult; emotion commands their abilities. There are also those who have disciplined their minds, allowing a greater command through force of will. In a similar vein to scholars, a magically gifted mage may choose the path of study and understanding, using experimentation and exercise to advance, rather than imitating, or relying on inspiration.

None of these methods or beliefs can truly be argued as better than others, because all share a common purpose. All Arcanists, by some means, communicate with The Weave, which is said not only to be the body of a goddess, but also a layer of the multiverse in which we live. It is the conduit through which all mages tap the energies of raw magic and, in however limited a fashion, bend reality to their will.

Evolution of Magic

The power of communication is clearly evident to all who use magic. While the mythical Words of Creation, True Names, and control of The Weave may not necessarily involve speech, they can all be called languages in that they represent a means of conveying commands to the subtle underlying forces of the multiverse. How, then, can this similarity be interpreted? Is The Weave a separate entity; a gift from the gods to allow mortals a taste of power? Or, is it possible that The Words of Creation represent a progenitor to the language of magic, and a link to the ancient language which might allow mortals to achieve god-hood? The work of True Namers suggests that such a connection may exist, and that some may be capable of following it to a greater knowledge.

The deeds of Lord Karsus of Netheril have demonstrated to all arcanists - and burned into many cultural memories - the terrible folly of attempting to steal the power of a deity. Despite this, perhaps it is possible that through patience, study, and the work of one lifetime or many, an exceptional mortal will unlock the ancient secrets of creation and ascend to divinity.