Tolkien: A Writer for Our Times

 W H Auden, who was a student of J R R Tolkien at Oxford, has said that there are two kinds of people, "Those that have read the Lord of the Rings and those that will eventually read the Lord of the Rings."  I am pleased to say that a few years ago after watching the Peter Jackson movies, I reread both the Hobbit and the trilogy that became The Lord of the Rings.  The first time I read them I was in Junior high or a freshman or sophomore in High school during the late 1970's or early 1980's.  

I understood much more of what Tolkien was doing the second time around.  When I read them again in the upcoming year, I will see even more of what Tolkien is accomplishing in this remarkable and enduring work of fantasy. 

A delightful way to enter into a deeper appreciation of Tolkien's work is to watch or listen to Ralph Wood's lecture.  I have experienced Prof. Wood in person as he delivers a lecture.  The man is a live wire and is a delight to listen to.  

You will not be disappointed. Tolkien: A Writer for Our Times



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