It is plain indeed that in spite of later estrangement Hobbits are relatives of ours: far nearer to us than Elves, or even than Dwarves. Of old they spoke the languages of Men, after their own fashion, and liked and disliked much the same things as Men did. But what exactly our relationship is can no longer be discovered. J. R. R. Tolkien discoverdislikedwarve share on social
'I wish life was not so short,' he thought. 'Languages take such a time, and so do all the things one wants to know about.' J. R. R. Tolkien languagelifeshort Change image and share on social
The original 'Hobbit' was never intended to have a sequel - Bilbo 'remained very happy to the end of his days and those were extraordinarily long': a sentence I find an almost insuperable obstacle to a satisfactory link. J. R. R. Tolkien bilbodayend share on social
A friend of mine tells that I talk in shorthand and then smudge it. J. R. R. Tolkien friendmineshorthand Change image and share on social
Many children make up, or begin to make up, imaginary languages. I have been at it since I could write. J. R. R. Tolkien beginchildimaginary Change image and share on social
It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near him. J. R. R. Tolkien calculationdragonleave Change image and share on social
If you really want to know what Middle-earth is based on, it's my wonder and delight in the earth as it is, particularly the natural earth. J. R. R. Tolkien basedelightearth Change image and share on social
You have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have. J. R. R. Tolkien chooseheartstrength Change image and share on social