Tolkien On Fairy-Stories

In this expanded edition of Tolkien On Fairy-Stories, editors Flieger and Anderson present J.R.R. Tolkien's profound exploration of fairy-stories and their vital role in the realm of literature. This seminal essay not only articulates Tolkien's views on the nature of imagination and storytelling but also highlights the significance of fantasy as a legitimate literary form.

The Plot

The essay is Tolkien’s personal statement on the role of imagination in literature – the piece that defined his conception of fantasy and led to the writing of The Lord of the Rings. This edition presents it in the corrected form published in Tree and Leaf (1964), alongside an introduction placing his 1939 lecture in its historical context, a history of the essay’s writing through to first publication in 1947, commentary on its allusions and revisions, and previously unpublished passages that contain his views on other writers.

Themes

• Imagination: Tolkien posits that imagination is not merely escapism but a necessary tool for understanding reality.
• Storytelling: The act of storytelling is depicted as a fundamental aspect of humanity, bridging the gap between the mundane and the extraordinary.
• Fantasy: The book defends fantasy as a legitimate literary genre, capable of conveying truth and moral lessons.

Literary Merit

Flieger and Anderson’s commentary provides a rich context for Tolkien's work, particularly for those familiar with The Lord of the Rings. This essay is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersections of literature, myth, and the human experience, offering a deeper understanding of Tolkien’s literary contributions and his legacy in the genre of fantasy.

“…it goes far to explain the nature of Tolkien’s art and justify his success” – The Cambridge Review