Meaning: The quote "It took three years to put Shakespeare's words together, there were a lot of words to be studied and a lot of words to be sorted out, and it proved to be a major project" by David Crystal, an acclaimed linguist and educator, sheds light on the monumental task involved in organizing and understanding the vast body of work created by William Shakespeare. This quote underscores the complexity and depth of Shakespeare's writings, as well as the dedicated effort required to unravel and comprehend his literary legacy.

David Crystal's statement alludes to the meticulous process of compiling and analyzing Shakespeare's words. The playwright's oeuvre encompasses a rich tapestry of language, spanning a wide array of plays, sonnets, and poetry. With an estimated 884,647 words in total, Shakespeare's works present a formidable challenge for scholars and researchers seeking to delve into the nuances of his language and themes. Crystal's reference to "a lot of words to be studied and a lot of words to be sorted out" highlights the sheer volume of material that needed to be carefully examined and contextualized, reflecting the magnitude of the undertaking.

The phrase "put Shakespeare's words together" conveys the arduous task of arranging and organizing the extensive corpus of Shakespearean texts. This process involves not only linguistic analysis but also an exploration of historical and cultural contexts, as well as an understanding of the evolving English language during Shakespeare's time. Crystal's mention of the three-year timeframe underscores the sustained commitment and rigorous effort required to navigate through Shakespeare's writings comprehensively.

Furthermore, the quote emphasizes the significance of Shakespeare's words as a major project. This underscores the enduring relevance and enduring impact of Shakespeare's literary contributions. His works continue to be studied, interpreted, and performed across the globe, attesting to their enduring resonance and cultural significance. Crystal's characterization of the endeavor as a "major project" underscores the profound influence and enduring legacy of Shakespeare's words, which continue to captivate and inspire audiences and scholars alike.

David Crystal, known for his expertise in language and linguistics, brings a unique perspective to the exploration of Shakespeare's words. His background as a scholar and educator positions him as a credible authority on the challenges inherent in studying and interpreting Shakespeare's language. By highlighting the extensive effort required to grapple with Shakespeare's words, Crystal's quote provides insight into the intricate process of engaging with the Bard's literary opus.

In conclusion, David Crystal's quote encapsulates the formidable undertaking of comprehending and organizing Shakespeare's words, underscoring the depth, complexity, and enduring significance of the playwright's writings. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring power and resonance of Shakespeare's language and themes, while also acknowledging the dedicated scholarly efforts required to unravel the intricacies of his works. Through his succinct yet evocative statement, Crystal offers a glimpse into the profound and ongoing exploration of Shakespeare's words, shedding light on the enduring allure of the Bard's literary legacy.