The letters of J.R.R. Tolkien: a selection

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The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien: A Selection

"The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien: A Selection" provides an intimate look into the mind of one of the most beloved authors of the 20th century, J.R.R. Tolkien. Edited by Humphrey Carpenter and with the assistance of Christopher Tolkien, this compilation offers readers an unparalleled glimpse into Tolkien’s thoughts, creative process, and personal life through his personal correspondence. This selection of letters showcases his reflective insights, painstaking attention to detail, and profound impact on the literary world.

Detailed Summary of the Book

"The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien: A Selection" is a collection of letters written by Tolkien spanning from 1914 to 1973. These letters provide a comprehensive glimpse into Tolkien's life, chronicling major life events, his detailed expositions about the mythology of Middle-earth, and his candid reflections on personal and professional matters. They include correspondence with his family, dialogues with publishers, exchanges with readers, and illuminating discussions with contemporary authors and academics.

This collection is divided into chronological order, showcasing the evolution of Tolkien's thoughts over six decades. The letters detail the meticulous world-building that went into "The Hobbit," "The Lord of the Rings," and "The Silmarillion." Readers gain access to his philosophical musings, religious beliefs, language creations, and his struggle to juggle his academic career alongside his writing pursuits.

Key Takeaways

• Tolkien’s dedication and the extensive labor involved in crafting Middle-earth were a lifelong pursuit rather than a single-event passion project.
• The complexity and depth of his storytelling stem from his linguistic expertise, personal experiences, and wide-ranging academic interests.
• He faced significant challenges and doubts, balancing his identity as a writer with his roles as a father, husband, and Oxford professor.
• Tolkien's interactions with his publishers and fans reveal his thoughts on the reception of his works and his meticulous attention to the published forms of his stories.
• His correspondence uncovers his vision for his books and his simultaneous joy and exasperation with the expanding fanbase eager for more details about his fictional world.

Famous Quotes from the Book

Throughout the letters, several quotes stand out for their insight and eloquence:

"I am in fact a Hobbit (in all but size)."

"The