In this snippet from Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking Glass, Humpty Dumpty emphasizes his belief in his own authority over language. He claims that words mean what he chooses them to mean, highlighting his view that language is flexible and subject to individual interpretation. Alice questions whether words can truly be so adaptable, suggesting concern over the potential for confusion.

Humpty Dumpty asserts that the real issue is about who controls language—the speaker or the listener. His statement, "which is to be master," implies that he believes the power to define words lies with the person who uses them. The dialogue explores themes of authority, language, and interpretation, raising questions about meaning and control in communication.