This is one in a series of posts where the content is provided by a guest who has graciously answered five questions about their experience as a Tolkien reader. I am very humbled that anyone volunteers to spend time in this busy world to answer questions for my blog, and so I give my sincerest thanks to Patrick and the other participants for this.

To see the idea behind this project, check out this page

I want to thank Donato Giancola for allowing me to use his stunning portrait of J.R.R Tolkien as the featured image for this project. If you would like to purchase a print of this painting, they are available on his website!

If you would like to contribute your own experience, you can do so by using the form on the contact page, or by emailing me directly.

Now, on to Patrick Fulton’s responses:

1. How were you introduced to Tolkien’s work?

Films by uncle and aunt at 7. Read more at 10 yrs old as a result, then Silmarillion at 11 yrs old.

2. What is your favorite part of Tolkien’s work?

His unique imagination and ability to pull together resources, philology, tales and myth together in a ridiculously brilliant way.

3. What is your fondest experience of Tolkien’s work?

Going to an exhibition in Oxford , and meeting the illustrator Alan Lee.

4. Has the way you approach Tolkien’s work changed over time?

Yes. Began with films, developed with reading books of his, and a few years ago I used my fascination with Tolkien to write (as part of my UK education) an EPQ on him.

5. Would you ever recommend Tolkien’s work? Why/Why not?

Yes. His detail and history in his Legendarium is (beyond being the lead influence in modern epic story) supreme to that of other franchises. Of course, others are also brilliant, but I believe his is the best universe in many ways.