Do not meddle in the affairs of Wizards, for they are subtle and quick to anger. J. R. R. Tolkien affairangermeddle 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
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
Hobbits are an unobtrusive but very ancient people, more numerous formerly than they are today; for they love peace and quiet and good tilled earth: a well-ordered and well-farmed countryside was their favourite haunt. J. R. R. Tolkien ancientcountrysideearth 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
The proper study of Man is anything but Man; and the most improper job of any man, even saints (who at any rate were at least unwilling to take it on), is bossing other men. Not one in a million is fit for it, and least of all those who seek the opportunity. J. R. R. Tolkien bossfitimproper share on social
