[Shadowfax Clawson]

I of course respect your views, littlemanpoet; you've done nothing aside from express your very valid opinion in a passive, objective manner. I wish I could say so much of others on this very site! I agree fervently that we musn't read too much between the lines even on fine works of literature such as Tolkien's, as the opinion of the author counts more than any other. After all, who can deem an opinion of a fictional world valid or invalid better so than the author? This talk of alter-egos makes for fascinating discussion material, yes, but shouldn't be sacrificed for the words of the author. Thanks for your valuable input!