Exploring Unpopular Opinions on Tolkien's Influence and Writing Style

Tolkien's works, especially The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, have captured the hearts and minds of millions, spawning a vast fandom that has flourished over decades. Yet, even within this passionate community, some opinions stand as unpopular, including ideas about how Tolkien himself was influenced by other writers and criticisms of his storytelling techniques.

The Influence of Earlier Authors on Tolkien

One such unpopular opinion revolves around J.R.R. Tolkien's influences. While many fans and scholars celebrate Tolkien as the pioneer of modern fantasy, some argue that he was more heavily influenced by earlier fantasy authors. A notable example is George MacDonald, who many believe had a significant impact on Tolkien's works.

One outspoken individual, in a lively discussion with Tolkien fans, pointed out that the final battle in The Battle of the Five Armies mirrors almost exactly the climax of George MacDonald's The Princess and Curdie. When this was mentioned to the fans, they became very defensive, insisting that this similarity was impossible. The idea that Tolkien was not the original voice in fantasy seemed to contradict their beloved author's legacy.

The Critique of Tolkien's Writing Style

Another unpopular opinion stems from the sharp critiques of Tolkien's writing style. While his linguistic expertise and world-building are widely praised, some argue that his storytelling can be overly verbose and slow-paced. Fan feedback often centers on his narrative approach, pinpointing moments of overly complex exposition that detract from the overall flow of the story.

"Much of his writing was basically purple prose," one fan noted. While this criticism is not as common as the praise, it is an acknowledgment that Tolkien's approach to storytelling is not universally beloved. Fans may prefer a more straightforward narrative, which they note Amazon has tried to address with their own adaptations.

The Legacy of Tolkien After His Passing

Tolkien's passing in 1973 marked the end of an era, yet his works continue to evolve. Amazon's recent updates to The Lord of the Rings series have sparked heated debates within the fandom. Some fans are concerned that these updates diminish the professor's original vision. However, others argue that while the adaptations may not be perfect, they offer a fresh perspective that can provide a new generation with a renewed interest in Tolkien's works.

"This September will be the 50th anniversary of the professor's passing. Thank God he's not here to see how his descendants and 'others' are deconstructing his wondrous creation," one fan expressed. While such opinions may upset the more traditionalists among Tolkien's fans, they reflect the ongoing discourse within the community about the preservation and interpretation of a beloved legacy.

Conclusion

Tolkien's influence on modern fantasy cannot be overstated, yet the detailed exploration of his inspirations, writing style, and the impact of his legacy after his passing reveals a more nuanced picture. While his status as a pioneer in fantasy fiction is undisputed, the unpopular opinions about his influences and writing style highlight the complexity and richness of the Tolkien fandom. These opinions, though not as widely embraced, contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the author's multifaceted contributions to literature.