by InspiredWritingResearch

Created on: May 25, 2007   Last Updated: May 31, 2010

One of my favorite everyday expressions coined by Shakespeare is "mortal engines" which has come to mean any tricky ways or inventions to get round a problem at home or at work. In Shakespeare's time the word "engines" meant plans or plots as well as machines. The latest famous example I can think of where this expression has been used is the novel "Mortal Engines." This is the title of a prize-winning children's literature novel written by Phillip Reeve and which has been gripping children everywhere, particularly boys. The book is full of scheming devices, complicated plots and fairly sophisticated tricks and turns to keep children guessing. The author has taken William Shakespeare's words fairly literally it would seem.

The quote "mortal engines"  is originally spoken by Othello, in Shakespeare's play of the same name and refers to plots/devices that may be used in revenge, or in taking life or administering punishment. In that scenario it is Iago who is dreaming up plans and scheming.he is motivated by revenge and his plots involve getting his own back.

Many young people are initially attracted to Phillip Reeve's novel by the commanding title - it has a certain ring to it. Children and young people are often patronized and have too little expected of them when it comes to language, yet they are attracted by complex sounding phrases and vocabulary - this can be built upon and encouraged in order to raise aspirations. For example, how many 4 year olds would have known what a "basilisk" was, before Harry Potter?

The "mortal engines" expression gives an ideal opportunity to introduce Shakespeare to young people, to explain the original context of the quote and to promote curiosity in the sad tale of a brave, loving and loyal but flawed warrior and how he was brought down by a devious and hypocritical false friend who "stabs him in the back" metaphorically if not literally. Maybe they would be keen enough to read or watch the play, either now or later on.

I wonder how many children who have read the book know what the title refers to ? It is set to become an everyday expression as reader numbers grow, and certainly if it becomes a movie. It is available in most bookstores and if not, it is certainly available on Amazon. A thoroughly recommended read for a child who likes a complicated plot and a gripping story. As is Othello !

Learn more about this author, InspiredWritingResearch.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.