Drafts by JRRT.
 

What percentage of drafts (about Middle-earth) by JRRT was published in HoME and UT? And what percentage of drafts by JRRT left in manuscript before now (approximately)?

Thank you.

Welcome to the BarrowDowns!

I think that only one person, Christopher Tolkien, could answer your questions. There are unpublished drafts in existence. Every once in a while, one is published and analysed in Vinya Tengwar, a linguistic periodical devoted to Tolkien's languages. Most of what has been published in VT has been linguistic/philosophical in nature (some are very interesting even to those not interested in the languages). It is my understanding that only VT and its editor are authorized to publish such materials.

JRRT's papers are maintained in two locations (other than those in C. Tolkien's possession). LoTR drafts and related materials are in the private collection of Marquette University. Other materials (Hobbit, Sil. and other materials) are in the Bodleian Library in Oxford. Marquette allows pre-scheduled access to microfiches of these materials under certain circumstances. I do not know what manner of access is allowed at the Bodleian.

[ December 24, 2001: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

Thank you for your answer!

And one more question. How do you think, if there is no comprehensive information about all drafts by JRRT, is it possible to compile the new canon in principle?

Sincerely yours.