Fantasy is escapist, and that is its glory

The Hobbits are just rustic English people, made small in size because it reflects the generally small reach of their imagination - not the small reach of their courage or latent power.

The world changes, and all that once was strong now proves unsure.

Not all that have fallen are vanquished.

Criticism - however valid or intellectually engaging - tends to get in the way of a writer who has anything personal to say. A tightrope walker may require practice, but if he starts a theory of equilibrium he will lose grace (and probably fall off).

Don't go where I can't follow!

Voiceless it cries, Wingless flutters, Toothless bites, Mouthless mutters.