Article Overview
Batman Beyond sets itself apart from other franchises by using its own invented language, adding depth and realism to the story.
The utilization of futuristic terminology in Batman Beyond establishes a connection to the previous narratives while simultaneously distinguishing itself. The inclusion of slang and diverse language styles for Terry McGinnis' Batman highlights cultural disparities and the futuristic backdrop, effectively setting it apart from Bruce Wayne's version.
With its sleek futuristic style, fresh take on classic Batman characters, and authentic continuation of the Dark Knight's narrative, Batman Beyond has established itself as a standout. However, it has an additional weapon in its arsenal that sets it apart: a cutting-edge language that rivals even the sharpest of the Caped Crusader's gadgets.
Originally conceived as an animated TV series within the DCAU, the Batman Beyond story has now merged with the comic book world, finding its place in Earth-12. Set roughly 50 years ahead of the current Batman timeline, this story sees Bruce Wayne retired due to old age, leaving Terry McGinnis to take up the mantle of Batman and fight crime in his stead. Old Gotham City has been replaced by the cyberpunk metropolis of Neo-Gotham, where genetic manipulation, advanced technology, and a new breed of villains are prevalent. While Batman Beyond differs in many ways from its contemporary counterpart, it is the use of language that truly transforms the setting, immersing readers in a convincingly distinct world.
Great Stories Often Use Invented Languages
Batman Beyond takes storytelling to a new level by creating a distinct language of its own. Many great stories have shown that introducing a unique linguistic world enhances the overall narrative. The Lord of the Rings is a prime example of this. J.R.R. Tolkien, a professor of language and literature, utilized his expertise to construct several invented languages for his stories. These languages added depth and realism to epic tales like The Lord of the Rings. In a similar fashion, Batman Beyond utilizes its own invented language to achieve a similar effect.
The presence of an invented language in Batman Beyond also establishes a connection with the Batman stories that preceded it. In Batman Beyond: Neo-Gothic #1, written by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, Max Dunbar, and illustrated by Sebastian Cheng and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, Terry McGinnis, as Batman, embarks on a mission to locate missing children who have vanished into the depths of Gotham City. To aid him in his endeavor, Batman enlists the assistance of a local individual known as an "undergoth," who possesses feline attributes due to genetic modification. This particular individual, referred to as Kyle Selinas_450, introduces various linguistic elements throughout the issue. Terms such as "undergoth" and "catboi" contribute to the expansion of Batman Beyond's unique lexicon. Additionally, the usage of the names Kyle and Selinas, as well as the catboi's choice of the phrase "Selina's Spit" as an expletive, establishes a remarkable connection to the previous Batman universe and its infamous villains. These subtle additions offer insight into the world's history and seamlessly integrate into the narrative.
Batman Beyond Stands Up On Its Own
Batman Beyond excels in crafting an enthralling universe, but it must surpass expectations and honor its inherited legacy. Its language establishes a profound connection to the past while simultaneously enabling it to stand out. In the DCU, Bruce Wayne's Batman has undergone readaptation for various generations, yet he has always possessed a distinct charm. However, Terry McGinnis, the new Batman, sets himself apart as a completely different kind of hero. Terry's character exudes warmth and is prone to delivering sarcastic remarks and clever quips, traits that starkly contrast with his predecessor and accentuate his uniqueness.
Terry effectively conveys these differences through his use of slang. While Bruce Wayne is typically articulate, his successor is heavily influenced by the popular culture of Neo-Gotham. Terry frequently employs terms such as "dreg" and "schway," effectively distinguishing his world from the one inhabited by Wayne during his prime.
Terry McGinnis’ Batman Is Beyond Timeless
Batman Beyond effectively employs language to create distinctions among different groups in its setting. One way it accomplishes this is through the use of technologically-oriented language by various characters, reflecting the cyberpunk themes of the story. Another example can be found in the language employed by the Jokerz gang. A notable villain, in Batman Beyond #1 from 2016, tells Batman: "Gonna make tooth-picks outta yer spine." This skillful use of language not only imparts a distinct accent to the character but also conveys their social class and status within the broader society.
A skilled storyteller has the ability to situate their narrative in any chosen era using imaginative language. In the case of Tolkien, he adeptly positioned The Lord of the Rings in a mythical past, thanks to the authentic-sounding invented languages. Similarly, stories can establish themselves in the present or even the future by creating appropriate vocabularies. A Clockwork Orange, a dystopian novel by Anthony Burgess, shares similarities with Batman Beyond, both set in a non-specific but not-so-distant future. However, what sets it apart is its youth-invented language. Both franchises utilize their distinctive dialects to firmly establish themselves in their respective hypothetical futures.
The invented languages in Batman Beyond and A Clockwork Orange contribute to the timeless atmosphere of both franchises. While Batman Beyond originally premiered in 1999 and is set in a future beyond current times, its language is not tied to any specific era, allowing it to maintain a futuristic essence.
Batman Beyond exemplifies the skillful utilization of language to enhance a franchise. It successfully builds upon the legacy of iconic storytelling. This series is not merely a fresh interpretation of a familiar tale, but rather a completely new and immersive realm.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I appreciate the innovative language in Batman Beyond. The use of futuristic terminology adds depth and realism to the story, making it stand out from other superhero franchises. The unique language also helps to establish the distinct identity of Terry McGinnis' Batman, setting him apart from Bruce Wayne's version.
I also appreciate the way Batman Beyond incorporates elements from the previous Batman stories. The use of names like Kyle and Selinas, and the reference to "Selina's Spit" as an expletive, establishes a connection to the earlier Batman universe and its infamous villains. These subtle additions add depth to the world-building and show that Batman Beyond is part of a larger, interconnected universe.
Overall, I think the language in Batman Beyond is one of the things that makes it so special. It helps to create a unique and immersive world that is both familiar and new. I am excited to see how the language of Batman Beyond continues to evolve in future stories.
