I'm trying to think what mountain Tolkien described in "mind-boggling" detail....
To repeat, in my opinion I don't need to know exactly what all the characters in a novel are thinking. As mentioned before by others, just the main characters thoughts will do. If I want great characterisation I will read other authors (Stephen King springs to mind) but if I want a story with a superb plot AND great characters (not what you think Eurytus) I will read LOTR.
Because the book is so MOVING I return again and again, as do other people. You only get this feeling from a book where you FEEL for the characters, and therefore how can they be paper thin? I feel mainly for the characters of the hobbits, probably because the story is based around them and that they are believable and strong characters.
PS We are going round in circles and repeating our opinions which is a waste of time. I've been here before (on a different forum) and it can turn into an unpleasent experience. We should agree to disagree and leave it at that.
(Of course Eurytus I'll let you have the last word if you like.........)
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