Busting Myths about J.R.R. Tolkien and His Works
John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, more commonly known as J.R.R. Tolkien, is one of the most celebrated authors of the 20th century, renowned for his creation of the world of Middle-earth and the epic works that brought it to life. Despite his immense success, many myths and misconceptions persist around his life and works. In this article, we will explore the biggest myths surrounding J.R.R. Tolkien and set the record straight.
The Silmarillion: More than Just a Myth
One of the most common myths about J.R.R. Tolkien is that he himself wrote The Silmarillion. However, a deeper dive into the history and circumstances of its publication reveals a more nuanced and interesting tale. The Silmarillion is often considered a collection of mythologies surrounding the founding of Middle-earth, rather than a standalone work. It is a culmination of Tolkien's extensive writings on his fictional universe, a project that he worked on over the course of many years.
Unfinished Masterpiece
Tolkien did indeed write The Silmarillion, but it was by no means a complete or polished final version. His intention was to create a comprehensive and coherent narrative that would span the entirety of the history and mythology of Middle-earth. Unfortunately, Tolkien never managed to complete this task in his lifetime. The project, filled with vast quantities of disparate notes, drafts, and narrative strands, was left partially finished.
The Role of Christopher Tolkien
Following his father's death, Christopher Tolkien took on the monumental task of editing, organizing, and presenting the unfinished manuscripts. Christopher worked methodically, supplementing gaps in the text with notes gathered from his father's work. Through this process, The Silmarillion was finally published in 1977.
It's important to understand that the published version of The Silmarillion is not simply a direct transcription of J.R.R. Tolkien's original manuscripts. Instead, it is a reworking of these materials that attempts to bridge the fragmented narrative of his father's work. The result is a cohesive, albeit speculative, depiction of the mythology and history of Middle-earth as Tolkien envisioned it.
Other Common Myths about Tolkien
Tolkien's Reluctance to Write
Another popular myth is that J.R.R. Tolkien was reluctant to put pen to paper. Many early critics and readers mistakenly believe that Tolkien only felt compelled to write due to the intervention of his publisher. This couldn't be further from the truth. Tolkien was an ardent writer for much of his life, and much of his fiction and non-fiction can be traced back to his youthful enthusiasm for storytelling and literature.
Far from being a reluctant writer, Tolkien poured countless hours into developing his fictional world. The meticulous attention to detail in his writings reflects his love for the craft and the imagination that it demands. Even beyond the published works, Tolkien left behind extensive notes, letters, and essays that provide insights into the complex and imaginative mind that created Middle-earth.
The Black Speech: A Real Language
Some people believe that the Black Speech, as depicted in The Lord of the Rings, was based on a real language. However, the Black Speech is a constructed language used by Saruman in his bid to dominate Middle-earth. It is entirely fabricated and does not have any roots in any known language.
Tolkien created languages as a fundamentally creative and enjoyable endeavor. His most widely known languages, such as Quenya and Sindarin, are fictional tongues that he developed with an intricate grammar and vocabulary. The Black Speech, in contrast, was a more frivolous and sinister creation, reflecting Saruman's deranged ambition within the story.
Life and Legacy
J.R.R. Tolkien's life and experiences certainly influenced his works, but his fantastical creations were more a product of his vivid imagination and passion for languages and storytelling, rather than direct biographical narratives. He drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including myths, legends, and his own observations of the world around him. However, his works should be appreciated for their independent merit and not based on any direct correspondences with his life.
Conclusion
From the enigmatic and extensive The Silmarillion to the rumored reluctance of Tolkien as a writer, there are numerous misconceptions surrounding the life and works of J.R.R. Tolkien. By delving deeper into his life and the development of his works, we can gain a better understanding of the creator and his creations. Tolkien's legacy endures not only in the vast and intricate landscapes of Middle-earth but also in the enduring fascination that his works have captured, both within and beyond the literary world.