Films gain major convert

[William Cloud Hicklin]

How do you know?

We correspond. He was not impressed.

Salo: in addition to synthesizing 'neo-Sindarin', Salo also has a habit of 'correcting' attested JRRT forms when they don't fit his personal theories- and then not indicating that he's done so. It doesn't help that he continually badmouths other Tolkien linguists.

As for Martinez, well, "His knowledge is deep, but his pride has grown with it." MM does know his stuff (when he's not using it to prop up one of his crank-ish theories)- but he's possessed of a singularly abrasive personality, which manifests itself in flames, accusations and personal insults. Not many people in the community can tolerate him any more.

[zxcvbn]

Originally Posted by William Cloud Hickli

We correspond. He was not impressed.

I thought Christopher doesn't communicate with anybody except through his lawyers? Well, if that's true, could you tell me what he thought of the films?

[William Cloud Hicklin]

I thought Christopher doesn't communicate with anybody except through his lawyers?

You make him sound like some sort of misanthropic old hermit, keeping the rev'nooers off his still with a shotgun!

CT is a very pleasant, sociable and witty fellow. He doesn't give out his home address to just anybody because, come on, do you remember what happened to his father before he fled into hiding in Bournemouth? JK Rowling doesn't give out where she lives, either.

You can write to him, if you like, c/o his publishers (like any author); and if your letter is polite and intelligent in due course you can expect a reply.

Well, if that's true, could you tell me what he thought of the films?

I'm afraid I can't. This is an especially sensitive area, for reasons discussed on this board; and CT wouldn't want his private critique circulated publicly. Suffice it to say he thought a better job could have been done.

[davem]

Interestingly, if you use the Ixquick search engine phone directory you can get addresses for both Priscilla (Oxford) & Adam Tolkien (in France)

though it don't say if they're current...

[William Cloud Hicklin]

Priscilla has always been in the Oxford phone book. Apparently she doesn't attract the number of deranged fans that besiege her better-known brother. Adam's address I didn't know about, but I know you can reach him by e-mail through the 'Contact' page at www.tolkienestate.com (he's the webmaster).

[MatthewM]

Interesting. William, could you tell me CT's publisher's address? I would love to write him. Thanks.

[zxcvbn]

I respect Christopher's privacy, but I wish he made his views on the movies public. It would be very entertaining to read a nice, long commentary on the films similar to what Tolkien wrote for the Robin Zimmerman script.

By the way, WCH, does he read e-mails or will I have to go to the trouble of writing and posting a real letter?