how would Tolkien feel about fanfic or RPGs? - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Morthoron · 06-27-2007, 08:53 AM

As I stated in that locked-thread-that-shall-not-be-named, it seems based on Tolkien's letters that perhaps early in his career the thought of enhancing Middle-earth through others' works may have been acceptable or even welcomed. Tolkien did indeed indulge in joint projects with his schoolmates and later with the Inklings (Lewis in particular); however, as he grew older and more curmudgeonly it is apparent that the whole idea became anathema to him (his distaste for Zimmerman's film being obvious), to the point where, near the end of his life, he only trusted his son, Christopher, to maintain the lore.

Therefore, it seems reasonable that he would cordially despise Middle-earth fan-fiction or RPG's (considering it perhaps flippant), just as he would more than likely be appalled by P.J. Jackson's rendering of LotR.

View Poll Results: How would the Professor feel about fanfic?
He'd like the idea that his work was being carried on by those who loved it.	19	43.18%
He would want only his son or another authorised editor to oversee all Middle-earth stories.	10	22.73%
He'd tear his hair out with rage and disgust.	10	22.73%
He wouldnt' have cared.	5	11.36%
Voters: 44. You may not vote on this poll

06-27-2007, 08:53 AM	#2
Morthoron Curmudgeonly Wordwraith Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Ensconced in curmudgeonly pursuits Posts: 2,515	As I stated in that locked-thread-that-shall-not-be-named, it seems based on Tolkien's letters that perhaps early in his career the thought of enhancing Middle-earth through others' works may have been acceptable or even welcomed. Tolkien did indeed indulge in joint projects with his schoolmates and later with the Inklings (Lewis in particular); however, as he grew older and more curmudgeonly it is apparent that the whole idea became anathema to him (his distaste for Zimmerman's film being obvious), to the point where, near the end of his life, he only trusted his son, Christopher, to maintain the lore. Therefore, it seems reasonable that he would cordially despise Middle-earth fan-fiction or RPG's (considering it perhaps flippant), just as he would more than likely be appalled by P.J. Jackson's rendering of LotR. __________________ And your little sister's immaculate virginity wings away on the bony shoulders of a young horse named George who stole surreptitiously into her geography revision.