The books have influenced me very much. I started reading them in the 10th grade and I haven't put them down since. Tolkien's attention to details keeps you so enthralled that every time you read, you learn something new. That is a sign that it is a great book if it keeps drawing it's audience like that. I have read many a fantasy book(some that I felt were a waste of time) and they don't leave you with that some feeling. It's like choosing between a salad and a steak. One is more satisfying than the other.
Tolkien's work helped somewhat get my juice flowing for writing. I have written a couple of short stories (fantasy and otherwise)and am working on a longer one that maybe someday with a miracle it can be published. I also write fanfiction as stress reliever. (College classes, bleh...)
But yes, Tolkien's books will always be an influence to me since he is the standard for fantasy writing. No one else can be as detailed as he was with his works and still be able to weave a tale. That is the sign of a true author.
[ October 24, 2002: Message edited by: Sleeping Beauty ]
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"If I knew all of the answers, I'd run for God."
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