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TCG Letter #130

From

J.R.R. Tolkien

A.W. Riddle

Date

2 October 1947

Type

Autograph Letter Signed

Transcript

Complete

Tolkien writes to Mr Riddle about languages word changes over time (including the S.I. or Split Infinitive), his father (Arthur Tolkien), Varsity, football and concludes "my own skill leaves me panting after time and crowds out other matters I have a leaning to (history, philosophy; and botany among them). Not to mention that I also try to be a writer of verse and prose."

Tags

Arthur Tolkien

Chaucer

Football

Languages

Oxford

Related Letters

Letter from J.R.R. Tolkien to A.W. Riddle • 10 January 1947 (#127)

References

The J.R.R. Tolkien Companion and Guide - Chronology (2017), pp. 342-3

Letter on languages, prejudices that can arise from names and more and a brilliant reference to Tolkien’s son and his father | 2nd October 1947, 6 pages, original handwritten & signed Tolkien letter. Baylis Rare Books asking price GBP 19,500 29th July 2024

Lomax Arms, thanks to Carl Hostetter

Thanks to Carl Hostetter for help transcribing this letter

Christie's 20th-Century Books and Manuscripts, 6 December 2002, Lot 26 Sold for GBP 3,290, p. 20 in catalogue: The lot description includes extracts from both letters, discussing various aspects of English language and correct use. Two pages from the letters are reproduced in a photograph and Tolkien's inscription in a copy of The Fellowship of the Ring is reproduced on the lower cover. Estimate GBP 1,500-2,000

The Vicar of Bray Song, thanks to Carl Hostetter

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TCG Letter #130

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