Kalimac: You're absolutely right! It was just the comments such as that, including the one about the horrid 1950s (odd), that made me more than a bit...wary.
I come to resurrect this thread, as I have recently found something Tolkien himself wrote in his own introduction to
The Fellowship of the Ring.
Quote:
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As for any inner meaning or 'message', it has in the intention of the author none. It is neither allegorical nor topical.
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Before, I accepted that Tolkien was 'anti-imperialistic', as he seems to have been labeled. Then I came to understand more of the meaning of the compound word 'anti-imperialism', and so I became wary of it. I find it to be a tricky word, and an even trickier label.
Now, after finding the quote above, doubt grew almost to a certainty that Tolkien has been unfairly labeled, as are so many people, alive or deceased.
Unless, of course, 'anti-imperialistic' views can be found in other writings, of which I am certainly not all that aware of. Still, I will have trouble believing this until a clear definition of 'anti-imperialism' is given.
But, I have had many certainties shattered easily before. So, I ask if anyone else believes that 'anti-imperialist' is the correct label for Tolkien, that they should inform me of the basis of this, and give me a definition for 'anti-imperialism'.
(Sorry about all the quotations...couldn't help myself!)
-Durelin
Oh, and let's forget the conquistadors and Sarcens, shall we? Thanks a bunch... I started it, I know...truly sorry. Though I must say, some excellent points on Columbus and such, Kalimac. Please, forgive me for my mistake.