Ringers “Lord of the fans” - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Morthoron · 10-21-2008, 04:06 PM

I think Tolkien was totally unprepared for the type of celebrity worship that is a hallmark of the American Experience (an aspect of Americana that has always been a bit embarrassing for me). In addition, writers prior to Tolkien most likely never experienced such status as a cultural phenomena (perhaps Dickens, but he's about the only one who comes to mind), so there was absolutely no precedent for the deluge that hit the conservative and introspective professor.

Had Tolkien lived and became popular in a later generation, his cult status most likely would not have been an issue.

10-21-2008, 04:06 PM	#9
Morthoron Curmudgeonly Wordwraith Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Ensconced in curmudgeonly pursuits Posts: 2,515	I think Tolkien was totally unprepared for the type of celebrity worship that is a hallmark of the American Experience (an aspect of Americana that has always been a bit embarrassing for me). In addition, writers prior to Tolkien most likely never experienced such status as a cultural phenomena (perhaps Dickens, but he's about the only one who comes to mind), so there was absolutely no precedent for the deluge that hit the conservative and introspective professor. Had Tolkien lived and became popular in a later generation, his cult status most likely would not have been an issue. __________________ And your little sister's immaculate virginity wings away on the bony shoulders of a young horse named George who stole surreptitiously into her geography revision.