[Diamond18]

Ironically, I have learned a lot of useful non-Tolkien related things here at the Barrow Downs. Or, I should say, I was at least pointed in those directions by references people made. I like the feeling of discovering something new that way, broadening my horizons and such.

To compare the Downs to school is pretty pointless for me. This is not because I'm not actually "in school" anymore due to mine advanced age of 18 (haha) and lack of money and courage for college. It's more because I was homeschooled from 1st grade on, and so almost my whole school experience was that freestyle, persue-what-interests-you type of learning. Well, my mother did force me to do mathematics though I despised it greatly, but I digress.

So I'd say the things I learn through the Barrow Downs experience is just like a continuation of how I've been learning all along. Just keeping my eyes, ears, and mind open to all that goes on around me.

A few comments on feeling pressured to get a degree in Tolkienolgy:

I am still unable to post very much in Books because my knowledge of Tolkien comes nowhere near a degree of any kind. I do still read many threads, though I have nothing to contribute to them. It's still interesting to read quietly, but under no circumstances do I feel pressured to make some thunderingly brilliant post on the subject.

In the end, it doesn't really matter how erudite you are about Tolkien when it comes to being a "good" or even "popular" member of this site. It's more important to know your limitations, and whether or not you are content with them. I have no desire to read HoME just so I can get into a stimulating discussion about Elvish reproduction, but neither am I going to post in that thread saying, "Gee...I dunno anything but hey, I'm a Wight now!"

Anyway, my point was that no one should feel pressured to build up on arcane Tolkien knowledge just to fit in. Just post well wherever you do happen to post.