Leaf by Niggle - Allegory??

[Kalessin]

Squatter, a very succinct and persuasive reflection [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

I also think leaves bu niggle deserves special mention for spectacular philology [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img].

I think there is a fine (and perhaps subjective) line between the sterile reductive analysis and the 'organic' experience of art. Indeed, sometimes the latter can be a self-indulgence, a cosy and contrived isolation, while the former can be part of a valuable and incisive process of discovery.

This (personal) tension is something I am always aware of when discussing Tolkien, given that his major works lend themselves so readily to both spiritual and technical interpretation. And in this case, the apparent contrast between the explicit non-allegory of his major work and the many autobiographical resonances of Leaf by Niggle and Smith of Wootton Major.

This subtlety, or contradiction, is part of both the humanity of Tolkien and his depth as an author, which in many debates here I have cited as mitigating against the obsession with an exact and integral 'system' behind his work, whether religious or literary.

The precision and tenderness of Tolkien's observations of Niggle clearly carry the authority of personal experience. Yet I think there is a tenuous, intuitive link between the gentleness and humility of the central character and something of the nature of hobbits. Perhaps this is a quality that resonated with Tolkien, and does so with all of us, as an essential component of goodness. And in his many contextual comments the author himself is appealingly self-deprecating.

And thus, my attempt to tread this fine line to which I alluded.

Peace [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

Kalessin