“If it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic.”
These famous words uttered by Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum perfectly capture the nonsensical and whimsical nature of Lewis Carroll’s masterpiece, Alice in Wonderland. From the moment Alice tumbles down the rabbit hole, she finds herself in a world where logic and reason are turned on their heads, and the bizarre becomes the norm.
As Alice encounters the eccentric and enigmatic Tweedles, it becomes clear that the pair are masters of intellectual obfuscation.
They engage in a hilarious and utterly perplexing conversation with Alice, leaving her bewildered and utterly confused. Their nonsensical banter is a reflection of Carroll’s underlying themes of absurdity and the often bewildering nature of the adult world.
“The snortful elliptical way!” cried Tweedledum, in a sudden burst of energy. “That’s what you’ll know it by!”
Alice and the reader are left trying to make sense of the twins’ nonsensical mumblings, highlighting the futility of searching for meaning in a world that often defies comprehension. Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum serve as a reminder that sometimes it is better to let go of reason and embrace the wonder and magic of the unknown.
Carroll’s use of language and wordplay in the dialogue of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum adds another layer of absurdity and charm to the story. Their words may be nonsensical, but they are delivered with such conviction and enthusiasm that it becomes impossible not to be swept up in their madcap world.
Quotes by Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in Alice in Wonderland
1. “If it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic!”
2. “Contrariwise, if it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic!”
3. “This watch is exactly two days slow.” “I beg your pardon?” said Alice. “It was exactly two days ago this morning that I found it here on the table, and I was just going to look for it, and, oh dear! Oh dear! I shall be too late!”
4. “The sun’s not so hot as it was a minute ago.”
5. “I like the Walrus best,” said Alice: “because you see he was a little sorry for the poor oysters.”
6. “But how did it call him when he didn’t know his name?”
7. “My name is Twiddle, but -” “It’s a stupid thing to ask, you know!” said Alice, very angrily. “I should care.”
8. “The fact is, you see, Miss, this here ought to have been a red rose-tree and we put a white one in by mistake; and if the Queen was to find out, we should all have our heads cut off, you know.” So you see, Miss, we’re doing our best afore she comes, to-d “
9. “Well, I’d hardly finished the first verse,” said the Hatter, “when the Queen jumped up and bawled out, ‘He’s murdering the time! Off with his head!'”
- “Will you walk a little faster?” said a whiting to a snail, “There’s a porpoise close behind us, and he’s treading on my tail.”
- “See how eagerly the lobsters and the turtles all advance! They are waiting on the shingle – will you come and join the dance? Will you, won’t you, will you, won’t you, will you join the dance?”
10. “I like the Walrus best,” said Alice, “because you see he was a little sorry for the poor oysters.”
11. “If I’d been the whiting,” said Alice, whose thoughts were still running on the song, “I’d have said to the porpoise, ‘Keep back, please, we don’t want you with us!'”
12. “No, no! The adventures first,” said the Gryphon, in an impatient tone: “explanations take such a dreadful time.”
13. “Very true,” said the Dormouse: “indeed, that’s the reason they’re called lessons, because they lessen from day to day.”
14. “I like the White Knight best.” “Anyhow it’s a great advantage,” said Alice, “to know one’s friends, even if one can’t remember their names.”
15. “Like a candle flame in a breeze. Just a little flicker. Keep the flame alive, Tarrant. Hello? Tarrant? Stay with me. Stay with me! Stay with me!”
16. “There’s the King’s Messenger. He’s in prison now, being punished; and the trial doesn’t even begin till next Wednesday: and of course the crime comes last of all.”
- “I sent a message to the fish: I told them ‘This is what I wish.’ The little fishes of the sea, They sent an answer back to me. The little fishes’ answer was ‘We cannot do it, sir, because…'”
- “If you didn’t sign it,” said the King, “that only makes the matter worse. You must have meant some mischief, or else you’d have signed your name like an honest man.”
17. “Hush! Hush! Speak softly, speak softly! All ’round the mulberry bush!”
18. “What’s the matter? You’ve been crying ‘wake up,’ you’ve disturbed me in my nice sleep.” “I wasn’t asleep,” Alice said in a frightened tone, trying to hide herself as well as she could from the angry-looking little creature, “but my eyes shut themselves up and wouldn’t let me see anything.” “Then you shouldn’t talk,” said the Hatter.
19. “But if I’m not the same, the next question is, ‘Who in the world am I?’ Ah, that’s the great puzzle!”
20. “Contrariwise continued Tweedledee, if it was so it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic.”
Talking About Their Names
Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the iconic characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, are known for their silly antics and nonsensical conversations. One thing that often comes up in their discussions is their unusual names.
Although it is never explicitly stated in the book, many readers have speculated about the origin of their names. Some believe that their names are derived from the sound of a drum, emphasizing the playful and whimsical nature of the characters. Others think that their names are meant to be a parody of the twin characters in the classic poem Tweedledum and Tweedledee by John Byrom.
Regardless of the exact origin, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum’s names have become synonymous with foolishness and silliness. They are often used to describe people who are engaging in pointless arguments or engaging in mindless tasks.
| Tweedle Dee: | “I’m Tweedle Dee, and you must be Tweedle Dum!” |
| Tweedle Dum: | “That’s right! We’re a pair of namesakes!” |
While their names may be a subject of jest and speculation, there is no denying the charm and humor that Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum bring to Alice in Wonderland. They are a testament to Lewis Carroll’s unparalleled ability to create memorable and quirky characters.
On Being Twins
Being twins is an extraordinary experience. It’s like having a built-in best friend for life. We share a special bond that few others can understand.
Tweedle Dee: We may look alike, but our personalities are as distinct as can be. I’m known for my high energy and impulsive nature.
Tweedle Dum: And I’m the more laid-back and contemplative one. I like to think before I act. Together, we balance each other out perfectly.
Tweedle Dee: It’s true! We complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses. We always have each other’s backs, no matter what.
Tweedle Dum: We finish each other’s sentences and know what the other is thinking without saying a word. It’s a connection that goes beyond words.
Being twins is not always easy, though. People often compare us and expect us to be the same. But we’re individuals with our own dreams and aspirations.
Tweedle Dee: We might be twins, but we’re not identical in every way. And that’s okay. Our uniqueness is what makes us special.
Tweedle Dum: We embrace our differences and celebrate our individuality. Being twins is an adventure, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Describing Their Physical Appearance
Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the famous characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, have a distinctive physical appearance. They are identical twins, which means they look exactly the same.
| Characteristic | Description |
| Height | Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum stand at approximately the same height. They are rather short, with a height of about three feet. |
| Build | Both characters have a similar build, which is round and slightly chubby. Their bodies are plump, and their cheeks have a rosy hue. |
| Facial features | Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum have round faces with wide, innocent-looking eyes. Their eyes are sparkling and have a mischievous glimmer. |
| Hair | They have short, curly hair that forms a neat and tidy frame around their faces. Their hair color is a shade of light brown. |
| Clothing | Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum wear matching outfits, which consist of a blue jacket, yellow trousers, and a red bowtie. They also wear large, round hats on their heads. |
Overall, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum can easily be recognized by their short stature, plump bodies, rosy cheeks, wide eyes, curly hair, and their unmistakable matching outfits. They are a striking pair that adds a touch of whimsy to the enchanting world of Alice in Wonderland.
On Their Manner of Speaking
Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the lovable twins from Alice in Wonderland, have a distinct manner of speaking that is both playful and poetic. Their dialogue is filled with rhymes, puns, and alliteration, creating a whimsical and entertaining reading experience.
The twins often speak in sync, completing each other’s sentences and echoing each other’s words. This synchronized speech creates a sense of harmony and unity between the two characters. They finish each other’s sentences with phrases like, “what I say is,” or “as I was mentioning”, emphasizing their shared thoughts and ideas.
In addition to their synchronized speech, the twins also enjoy engaging in word play and clever word games. They use puns to playfully twist words and meanings, making their conversations both humorous and thought-provoking. For example, in one scene, they discuss a battle between “tweedle beetles” and “bottle beetles”, using the similar sounds of the words to create a funny and playful dialogue.
Furthermore, the twins frequently employ alliteration, a technique that involves repeating the same sound or letter at the beginning of words in quick succession. This use of alliteration adds a musical quality to their speech, making it even more enjoyable and memorable for readers. For instance, they exclaim, “It’s funny to think that you might have cried a river!”, effectively using the repetition of the “r” sound to create a pleasing and rhythmic effect.
In conclusion, the manner of speaking of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in Alice in Wonderland is characterized by synchronized speech, word play, puns, and alliteration. Their playful and poetic dialogue adds depth and charm to the story, captivating readers of all ages.
Discussing the Walrus and the Carpenter
Tweedle Dee: “Oh, the Walrus and the Carpenter, they’re such fascinating characters, aren’t they?”
Tweedle Dum: “Indeed they are! The Walrus, with his charming words and persuasive ways, and the Carpenter, with his skillful hands and hardworking nature.”
Tweedle Dee: “But oh, how they deceived those poor little oysters! It’s such a tragic tale.”
Tweedle Dum: “Yes, it’s a cautionary story about deceit and manipulation. The Walrus and the Carpenter, with their insincere smiles, lured the innocent oysters away from their home.”
Tweedle Dee: “And they were so greedy! They ate all the oysters, leaving none for the poor little ones who were misled by their false promises.”
Tweedle Dum: “It teaches us to be wary of those who sweet-talk us and make false promises. We must always question their intentions.”
Tweedle Dee: “Indeed! The Walrus and the Carpenter may be fictional characters, but their story holds a valuable lesson for us all.”
Tweedle Dum: “Absolutely! It reminds us to be cautious and not to be easily swayed by smooth talkers.”
Talking About the White Knight
During one of their many whimsical conversations in Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum share their thoughts on the White Knight.
“Oh, the White Knight is a magnificent fellow,” exclaimed Tweedle Dee, his eyes sparkling with admiration.
“Indeed he is,” nodded Tweedle Dum, a smile playing on his lips. “He is a symbol of chivalry and honor.”
“Absolutely,” agreed Tweedle Dee, his voice filled with enthusiasm. “The White Knight embodies all the qualities of a true hero. He is brave, noble, and always ready to lend a helping hand.”
“And let’s not forget about his skills as a storyteller,” chimed in Tweedle Dum. “His tales are captivating, filled with old legends and adventures.”
“Yes, his stories transport us to faraway lands and ignite our imaginations,” said Tweedle Dee, his eyes gleaming. “The White Knight’s words have a magical quality to them.”
“Indeed, they do,” agreed Tweedle Dum, nodding in agreement. “He has a way of bringing characters to life and making us feel like we are part of their daring quests.”
“It’s a shame that he is often misunderstood,” sighed Tweedle Dee, a note of sadness in his voice. “People sometimes see him as clumsy or eccentric, but they fail to see the beauty and depth within him.”
“That’s true,” nodded Tweedle Dum. “But we are lucky to appreciate the White Knight for who he truly is – a gentle soul with a heart full of kindness and a mind full of wonders.”
“Absolutely,” said Tweedle Dee, his voice filled with conviction. “The White Knight is a true friend and an inspiration to all who know him.”
“We are fortunate to have crossed paths with him,” agreed Tweedle Dum, his eyes filled with gratitude.
As they continued their conversation, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum couldn’t help but marvel at the extraordinary nature of the White Knight. In their hearts, they knew that his presence brought a touch of magic to their lives.
On the Topic of Fighting and Arguments
Although Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum may seem like whimsical characters, their interactions often touch upon deeper themes, such as fighting and arguments. Through their humorous and nonsensical dialogues, they provide insightful commentary on these topics.
One quote that highlights their perspective on fighting is when Tweedle Dee says, “Contrariwise, if it was so, it might be; and if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic.” This quote implies that fighting and conflict arise from discrepancies between what is perceived as true and what actually is. Tweedle Dum’s agreement further emphasizes their shared perspective.
Furthermore, their dialogues often revolve around absurd arguments, such as the one about the shape of an egg. When Tweedle Dee says, “I know what you’re thinking about,” and Tweedle Dum responds, “What?” this showcases the futility and triviality of many arguments. Their banter reminds us that sometimes arguments are simply a result of misunderstanding or miscommunication.
The characters of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum also serve as a reminder that fighting and arguing can be detrimental. In their famous quote, “If it was so, it might be; if it were so, it would be; but as it isn’t, it ain’t. That’s logic,” the repetition of “it isn’t” and “it ain’t” implies that fighting over insignificant matters can lead to a dead-end where no resolution is possible.
Overall, the quotations from Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum shed light on the nature of fighting and arguments. They offer a lighthearted perspective while also camouflaging deeper messages about the futility and potential hazards of engaging in unnecessary conflicts. Through their witty dialogues, Lewis Carroll encourages readers to reconsider the importance of choosing our battles wisely and finding common ground instead of letting trivial disagreements escalate into full-blown fights.
Final Thoughts and Departure
The encounters with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” leave readers with a sense of wonder and confusion. These well-known characters showcase the absurdity and eccentricity that reside in Wonderland.
As Alice tries to make sense of her surroundings, the conversations with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum seem to only deepen her confusion. Their nonsensical quotes and logical fallacies challenge Alice’s understanding of reality.
Though frustrating, the encounters with the twins serve a purpose in the story. They highlight the unpredictable and illogical nature of Wonderland, forcing Alice to question her own assumptions. Their departure from the story signifies Alice’s growth and her ability to navigate the challenges of Wonderland.
In the end, the presence of Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum provides a valuable lesson for readers. It reminds us that sometimes, we need to embrace the absurd and let go of our need for logic and rationality. Wonderland is a place where anything can happen, and the twins embody this whimsical spirit.
So, as Alice bids farewell to Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, she carries with her the memories of their peculiar conversations. Their nonsensical quotes and playful banter serve as a reminder that life is not always straightforward, and sometimes, it’s okay to embrace the whimsy and wonder that exists in our own reality.