Do most fantasy novel nowadays have traceable elements of Tolkienism in them?

[Nerwen]

Reading this thread, though, I fear we are perhaps in danger of trying to talk a problem out of existence. Because, honestly, there really are thousands of books out there that do consist largely of just the kind of unimaginative cut-and-paste exercise described by the OP- which is not the same thing as "being influenced by" or "having elements in common".

[blantyr]

Originally Posted by Nerwen

Reading this thread, though, I fear we are perhaps in danger of trying to talk a problem out of existence. Because, honestly, there really are thousands of books out there that do consist largely of just the kind of unimaginative cut-and-paste exercise described by the OP- which is not the same thing as "being influenced by" or "having elements in common".

I believe Theodore Sturgeon was once told that ninety percent of science fiction is crap. He responded with the claim that ninety percent of anything is crap. We could argue on the ninety percent number, but, sure, an awful lot of fiction might fit the unimaginative cut-and-paste description. I don't know that either the Tolkienesque or modern urban fantasy camp has that much of an edge over the other in this regard.

One might write in either tradition without adding to it, but if the characters feel real and the interactions between the characters feels fresh, it might still be art.

[Morthoron]

In a different artistic context, bassist Billy Cox made this reference about modern guitarists:

"There are those who admit being influenced by Jimi Hendrix, and those who try to pretend they aren't."

It is difficult to argue Mr. Cox's reasoning, particularly when a preponderance of great guitarists admit such a debt.

In regards to late 20th century/early 21st century fantasy authors, I would have to say the same rationale applies to Tolkien. This goes far beyond the stylistic approach to fantasy novels, the continuing popularity of the fantasy genre is due in greater part to Tolkien's Middle-earth. There is no other logical manner to explain the ongoing phenomenon. Simply, the genre would not be the same without Tolkien's influence. Michael Moorcock be damned.

A secondary influence, particularly in regards to Arthurian cycle fantasies, may be given to T.H. White's The Once and Future King, which humanized the unbelievably chivalric and stiff paragons of Thomas Malory, indelibly imbuing humor, sadness and incredible depth to characters too virtuous for their own good.