However, did you know that "ouch" is documented from 1837? Alas. I have to figure out something for my book set in 1817. "Ow" is used as an exclamation of surprise in the 14th century, but as an expression of sudden pain it doesn't show up until 1919. Hrmph doesn't show up at all, and harrumph doesn't show up until 1918.
Tolkien used things out of their proper timeline, but I'm not Tolkien. For example, he describes the dragon firework as sounding like a steam engine. It's a fantastic, clear image, but it only makes sense to me as a reader, not for the time frame, as Lord of the Rings is mythical, pre-history. He does have a gift for painting a picture with words.
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