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Many here read much into JRRT's letters that is certainly seriously meant, but I think the majority is overlooking a foundation of his work. Tolkien did not write the Legendarium as a man eager to create a singular, perfect opus meant to remain untouched by unclean hands. He was, practically from birth, a man in love with language and The Epic Story. He based his works upon older (and he would probably say much richer) traditions. Did he shirk from borrowing characters or plot elements from other authors? Whatever he thought about the quality of writing that is done in his Me world, I find it unimaginable that he would deny authors their creative impulse, even if that impulse led to continuing his legacy. It is an author with a cold heart (and not one I would admire) who could not be moved to acceptance of a talent equal to or greater than himself. Remember, JRRT was first a reader of myths; second, a speaker of tongues; and only third, a writer.
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