Letters 
Letter Tags
Stats
A reader for GA&U writes a generally negative report on 'Beren and Lúthien' which is sent to GA&U with the manuscript. Charles Furth wrote at...
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin suggests 17 November for their next meeting. Tolkien had written earlier that day suggesting other dates but writes an...
Stanley writes to Tolkien with news that the first edition of The Hobbit has sold and a new printing will be issued almost immediately. He notes that To...
Tolkien has received a letter from Arthur Ransome, who wonders about the use of the word "man" in The Hobbit, as well as a few other letters f...
Tolkien notes his pleasure at receiving letters from readers. He mentions his mythology and remarks that he has nearly finished a second book on hobbits...
Tolkien opens this letter by mentioning that he is writing this letter using his new "midget type" typewriter cartridges. These could be inter...
Tolkien replies to #TCGLetter2487 He expresses deep concern about Rayner, who is off to war, and mentions that his son Christopher has become great frie...
Tolkien expresses pleasure that Hugh enjoyed "The Hobbit" and mentions his ongoing work on a longer piece set in the same world, The Lord of t...
Tolkien opens this letter with apologies for his delayed reply. He says that he must have appeared ungrateful, but not only was he grateful, he was exci...
In this draft to #Letter115, Tolkien gives various details about his work on his secondary world.
Tolkien gives various details about his work on his secondary world.
In reply to #Letter115, Katharine Farrer writes to Tolkien. She expresses her enthusiasm for the new work and remarks that she especially likes the &quo...
Katharine Farrer writes to Tolkien. She and her husband are both delighted, and excited, to hear that Tolkien will publish The Silmarillion. She asks ab...
Tolkien notes the progress with having two large books, one being The Lord of the Rings, published. It has been accepted and is almost finished. Hammond...
Tolkien had "dumped" the manuscript of The Lord of the Rings on Milton Waldman just as he was going on holiday, and Tolkien felt bad burdening...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, mentioning various topics but chief among them is The Lord of the Rings. Stranded without a publisher, and the work now...
Stanley Unwin replies to #Letter124. He says that publishing The Silmarillion and The Lord of the Rings together would be very difficult. He asks if the...
Tolkien compares his two great stories the War of the Ring and the War of the Jewels and remarks on the Farmer Giles sales figures.
Unwin wants to break up Tolkien's "monstrous Saga", and Tolkien hopes Unwin will let the project go, so Tolkien can publish The Lord of t...
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin asking for a decision about The Silmarillion and The Lord of the Rings. He remarks that he will be busy with examination...
Sir Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of how to publish the Lord of the Rings. He does not see a possibility for one volume and gives some f...
Relations between Tolkien and Allen & Unwin had begun to become strained as Tolkien felt that A&U were not open to publishing his work as he would have ...
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien opens with apologies for not replying to two previous letters, both kind according to Tolkien. He remarks that the Cha...
Tolkien wrote this letter to Milton Waldman. Tolkien wanted his publisher, George Allen & Unwin, to publish both The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarill...
Tolkien responds to Mrs. Mitchison's kind letter and her generous and perceptive review of The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the complexity of th...
Tolkien responds to a reader's extensive analysis and questions about The Lord of the Rings. Amongst many topics, Tolkien discusses the unique fate...
Tolkien describes a challenging and overwhelming period with an excessive workload, emphasizing the strain it has taken. He mentions booksellers, includ...
Tolkien writes to John Roberts, apologising for the delay in publishing the third volume of The Lord of the Rings. He describes the third volume, regret...
Tolkien writes to Mr. Mitchell, about reading The Lord of the Rings and extends offer to sign his 3 volumes. He hopes that his success with the The Lord...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for Lord Halsbury's approval and interest in his work. He discusses the surprising success of The Lord of the Rings and...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a reader's encouraging letter. He writes that his work began during World War I and evolved into the invention of l...
These are Tolkien's notes based on a review by W.H. Auden. He argues that his story is not an allegory of his personal experiences but a depiction ...
Among many subjects Tolkien discusses the unfinished index for The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion. Numenor, echoes of past tales. 'Tunes&ap...
Tolkien describes himself as a philologist, and sometime calligrapher. An index of Elvish names was intended to be produced, noting that his 'speci...
The letter opens with Tolkien's acknowledgment of Minchin's suggestions and his note that he is now more than ever under enormous pressure to ...
Tolkien hoped that he would be able to publish parts of The Silmarillion After the success of The Lord of the Rings he hoped it may be reconsidered.
Writing to a Miss J. Burn, Tolkien remarks that he could not explain how The Lord of the Rings "grew" unless he did so as an "autobiograp...
Tolkien answers some questions, on The Silmarillion and on Elvish sleep among more general queries. It is plainly suggested that Elves do 'sleep&ap...
Tolkien replies to a fan letter with pleasure that Mr. Roberts is enjoying The Lord of the Rings. He makes a brief mention of his First and Second Age s...
Tolkien says that work is still getting in the way of him spending any time on The Silmarillion. He is having trouble with Professor Wrenn in America, a...
Tolkien apologizes to Rayner for being exhausted at their previous meeting and says he is recovering from a very stressful school term. He says that he ...
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a letter from GA&U and contemplates the idea of retiring in July and reflects on the financial and health implications. ...
Tolkien replies to Mary Newall, (d.1998), and discusses his health, thanks her for her kind words and his plans for The Silmarillion. He writes "To...
Tolkien describes his meeting with Sir Stanley Unwin and Mr Ackerman, they decided upon a policy to deal with film rights.
Rayner agrees with Tolkien that future translations should adopt the names as Tolkien prefers. Rayner says that Allen & Unwin can have an index of names...
Tolkien discusses his hectic schedule, translations of the recently published (in 3 volumes) Lord of the Rings. Tolkien states that he is "on leave...
Writing to Tolkien, Rayner says that he will seriously consider adding the index into the Lord of the Rings. Possibly to coincide with the proposed publ...
Tolkien describes the creation of the World and then of the Dwarves by Aulë in draft that was never sent to Beare.
Tolkien sends his apologies not replying earlier, he describes himself as "a much harassed man".
Tolkien writes to Rayner about his translations of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and Pearl.
Tolkien wrote a series of twelve letters to his cousin Dorothy Wood.
The letter contains a printed statement about The Lord of the Rings and a typed paragraph stating that he is "working on a new book which I hope wi...
Tolkien informs Rayner that by way of looking at the "Scunthorpe lists". He has also continued work on The Silmarillion, and can say that it i...
Tolkien tells Rayner that he is getting to his work on the translations of Sir Gawain and Pearl, in addition to The Silmarillion, however the arrival of...
Tolkien asks Rayner's thoughts on publishing small or minor bits having to do with the Ring Cycle. He says that he is being asked for these, and th...
Tolkien tells Jane Neave that he will send her "a long instalment", from The Silmarillion, for reference.
Tolkien's publishing commitments are catching up with him. Chronology reproduced a slightly longer selection of the letter than what appears in Let...
Letter concerns various points in The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.
In the unpublished part of the letter Tolkien discusses the translation of The Lord of the Rings into Dutch, and in the published part Númenor, C.S. Le...
Tolkien explains that there will not be a sequel to The Lord of the Rings, with observations on the end of stories and that the fourth age is not "...
Tolkien replies to Perry, explaining his delay as be is not able to remember addresses and that his papers are not in order. Tolkien goes on to discuss ...
Tolkien writes in reply to a letter asking for details of what Tolkien is writing. He apologises for the short delay as he is busy writing what Mr. Sutt...
Tolkien writes expressing his sorrow at his delay in replying. He pleads be excused as he is still "very busy and have little time to spare if I am...
Writing to his aunt, Jane Neave, Tolkien says that fan mail keeps arriving, some of it is interesting, and he enjoys the thanks and warm wishes from fan...
Tolkien informs Rayner Unwin that he is now "in residence" until 2 October and will return on 10 October as he is once again involved in term....
Tolkien sends a short letter with his pleasure that Mr. Sheppard enjoys his writing.
Tolkien is 'deep in snow'
Tolkien writes to Julie Cape thanking her for her letter of appreciation. She has enjoyed The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien hopes that sh...
A standard reply to Justin, thanking him for his support and mentioning The Silmarillion.
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings, comparisons to The Hobbit, some discussion of the material being worked on for The Silmarillion, and a lengt...
Tolkien replies to a Mrs. L.F. who had written to remark on her enjoyment of the Lord of the Rings. He is pleased to receive her letter and remarks that...
Justin Arundale, a young fan of The Lord of the Rings, writes to Tolkien asking if he has any information of when The Silmarillion will be published. To...
A brief letter stating that The Silmarillion is not yet complete, but that The Adventures of Tom Bombadil should be coming out soon in America. He compl...
It had been agreed that the new paperback (see no. 248) should be given the title Tree and Leaf. Rayner Unwin asked if Tolkien could suggest a suitable ...
Tolkien replies to Justin Arundale aged ten explaining that the Silmarillion will not be published for some time yet. He closes by asking him to tell hi...
Tolkien answers a question about what Hal saw on the North Moors, remarking that "Perhaps it was a troll...". He also recommends Heaf to read ...
Eileen Elgar wrote to Tolkien asking for information about The Silmarillion. Included in his reply was a nine page manuscript, with genealogical tree il...
Tolkien apologizes for having trouble reading Mr Peel's signature and was pleased that he liked his work. He states that The Silmarillion will not ...
Tolkien now regrets that The Silmarillion might not be in print for some time to come: "I still have a professional task to clear away before I can...
Tolkien discusses the publication of Tree and Leaf and discusses his progress on The Silmarillion.
Tolkien wrote that he usually typed letters because of his handwriting (which can be very difficult to read at times). He talks about the invention of h...
Tolkien replies, thanking Mr. E. Rasdall for his interest in his writing and returns the copy of The Adventures of Tom Bombadil to be signed. Tolkien ex...
Joy Hill replies to a letter in which she is described as "his chief scribe". The Silmarillion is not yet ready for publication and no date is...
Rayner Unwin replies to a letter from Ed Meskys saying the Silmarillion will not be published for many years but that Sir Gawain and Pearl could be publ...
Tolkien had sent Unwin the typescript of his new story Smith of Wootton Major, but could not find any other suitable stories to make a sufficiently larg...
Tolkien writes about The Silmarillion, the Númenórean legends, and his friendship with C.S. Lewis. He discusses the formation of the Tolkien Society o...
In August 1965 Ballantine Books produced the first 'authorized' American paperback of The Hobbit, without incorporating Tolkien's revisio...
Professor Kilby, of Wheaton College, Illinois, had met Tolkien while visiting Oxford in 1964. He now offered to return to England and help Tolkien in an...
Auden told Tolkien that he had agreed to write a short book about him, in collaboration with Peter H. Salus, for a series entitled Christian Perspective...
Tolkien sends a letter to his friend George Sayer firstly expressing his sorrow about Sayers wife Moira. She has been very ill of late. He had hoped tha...
Tolkien replies to Roger Verhulst's 2nd March letter about the US paperback rights to Essays Presented to Charles Williams, and he reiterates his o...
Tolkien discusses 'Gods'.
Secretarial letter to Mr Porthouse wirth mention that Tolkien's next book will be The Silmarillion.
Tolkien writes to Mrs Elgar about his and her health, a cruise that he is taking with Edith and his lack of progress on The Silmarillion.
Mr McCarthy is thanked for his letter, an apology is given for Tolkien not replying which is blamed on pressures of finishing The Silmarillion.
Tolkien discusses his and Edith's Mediterranean cruise and the bust of him at the English Faculty in Oxford.
Tolkien writes to Kilby making mention that he is pleased that Kilby has finally received the correct medication and says that he is yet to continue wit...
Tolkien writes to James S. Marsh and sends him three copies of his autograph to stick in his books.
Rayner writes to Mr Hooton about The Silmarillion. He describes Tolkien as "a perfectionist" and does not expect publication for a few years. ...
Tolkien writes to Mr Hooton about progress on The Silmarillion, which has been delayed due to the complications presented in the United States from the ...
At the top, Tolkien has written: 'Some reflections in preparing an answer to a letter from one Mr Rang about investigations into my nomenclature. I...
Colin Smythe wrote back to Tolkien, saying he will look for Winter's Tales For Children but hopes Tolkien could provide a new poem, and also expres...
Tolkien thinks perhaps he might find a poem about "Westernesse" that would suit. He is leaving Oxford, so Smythe should write to Allen & Unwin...
J.R. Kennard writes to GA&U asking for information on the publication of Tolkien's The Silmarillion.
Joy Hill stated that GA&U do not know when The Silmarillion will be published.
Tolkien adds his own response to the Letter sent by Joy Hill on the same day. It appears that Joy was staying with Tolkien when both of these letters we...
Tolkien writes about his languages and talks about Westron or the Common Speech.
A secretarial letter with a PS from Tolkien who explains that he is too busy writing The Silmarillion to answer questions.
Colin writes that he understands and would much prefer to see The Silmarillion in print. Suggests that A & U might do a limited signed edition.
Joy Hill (misunderstanding) Smythe's comments states that she doubts that A&U would allow Smythe to produce a signed limited edition.
Colin corrects the misunderstanding from her last letter. A&U, not Smythe should do a limited signed edition.
Tolkien wishes he had an 'elven' grammar and vocabulary.
This letter was published in the letter column of the January 1970 issue (Volume Two, Number One) of Carandaith, the journal of the Australian Tolkien S...
Tolkien discusses his problems with progressing the Silmarillion.
Tolkien is very busy working on the Silmarillion but is very glad that his books have brought Davison enjoyment.
Tolkien writes about progress on the Silmarillion.
Tolkien sends a standard form reply to Mr. Trimmer, apologising for not being able to write anything personal as he is working on The Silmarillion.
Tolkien apologises for not sending a personal reply and explains that he is to busy with the Silmarillion to answer personal questions.
Joy Hill tries to dissuade a student from writing his thesis about The Lord of the Rings due to the immense amount of unpublished material he doesn&apos...
Tolkien writes about Aman and what happens to mortals, such as Frodo, when they go there. Tolkien talks about Lewis's use of "Numinor" an...
Tolkien thanks Mr Mackay for a chart and information that he sent him about Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
Tolkien writes to Michael about how little time he has to work on The Silmarillion and about any prospects of feature films, he believes that no films w...
Tolkien explains that he does not have time to comment on his works.
Tolkien writes to Christopher about Edith, her headstone, his thoughts of her as Lúthien and a visit to GA&U's headquarters.
A photocopy/form letter on Ballantine Books letterhead sent in response to a fan letter. The letter thanks David for writing and for his enthusiasm, and...
Tolkien declines to discuss C.S. Lewis and states that he is still trying to work on The Silmarillion.
Joy Hill responds to a fan query about The Silmarillion, saying that for death duty (tax) reasons, it cannot be published while he is alive.
Tolkien's secretary writing on behalf of Tolkien, states that he is very busy and cannot write letters currently.
Tolkien writes, thanking Lanier for the book The War for the Lot by Lanier himself. Tolkien says that he found it quite original, and frightening. Tolki...
Tolkien writes to a reader giving an update on his next book, The Silmarillion "which is already written but in need of revision".
Joy Hill writes to Mrs. L.F. about The Silmarillion remarking that it is a long way from publication. She says that Tolkien is now an old man and has no...
Reply of thanks. Mention of The Silmarillion being "far from complete".
Tolkien writes about his current views on Galadriel which changed frequently through out his life.
Colin Robb sends some booksellers a dummy Silmarillion to assist with pre-orders.
Christopher Tolkien replies to Francisco Perrúa, the Spanish translator of his fathers work, 6 months after he received a letter from him about his wor...
Rayner Unwin thanks Bernie Zuber and the membership of the World Science Fiction Convention for awarding J.R.R. Tolkien with the "Gandalf Award&quo...
Letter Tags
Stats
Guide to Tolkien's Letters
The Silmarillion
(138 letters match)1937
c. Late 1937 before 15 December
Reader's Report to Stanley Unwin
#2754
A reader for GA&U writes a generally negative report on 'Beren and Lúthien' which is sent to GA&U with the manuscript. Charles Furth wrote at...
28 October 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2097
Writing to Tolkien, Stanley Unwin suggests 17 November for their next meeting. Tolkien had written earlier that day suggesting other dates but writes an...
15 December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1109
Stanley writes to Tolkien with news that the first edition of The Hobbit has sold and a new printing will be issued almost immediately. He notes that To...
16 December 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#22
Carpenter #19
Tolkien has received a letter from Arthur Ransome, who wonders about the use of the word "man" in The Hobbit, as well as a few other letters f...
1942
15 March 1942
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Kettle
#116
Tolkien notes his pleasure at receiving letters from readers. He mentions his mythology and remarks that he has nearly finished a second book on hobbits...
1944
7 July 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#146
Carpenter #75
Tolkien opens this letter by mentioning that he is writing this letter using his new "midget type" typewriter cartridges. These could be inter...
1945
Undated (circa 18 March 1945)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#223
Carpenter #98
Tolkien replies to #TCGLetter2487 He expresses deep concern about Rayner, who is off to war, and mentions that his son Christopher has become great frie...
1948
7 April 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
#266
Carpenter #114
Tolkien expresses pleasure that Hugh enjoyed "The Hobbit" and mentions his ongoing work on a longer piece set in the same world, The Lord of t...
15 June [?1948]
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#267
Carpenter #115
Tolkien opens this letter with apologies for his delayed reply. He says that he must have appeared ungrateful, but not only was he grateful, he was exci...
15 June [?1948]
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#2639
In this draft to #Letter115, Tolkien gives various details about his work on his secondary world.
15 June [?1948]
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
#2640
Tolkien gives various details about his work on his secondary world.
October 1948
Katharine Farrer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2648
In reply to #Letter115, Katharine Farrer writes to Tolkien. She expresses her enthusiasm for the new work and remarks that she especially likes the &quo...
1949
c. Autumn 1949 - early 1950*
Katharine Farrer to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2738
Katharine Farrer writes to Tolkien. She and her husband are both delighted, and excited, to hear that Tolkien will publish The Silmarillion. She asks ab...
12 November 1949
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss R.W. How
#135
Tolkien notes the progress with having two large books, one being The Lord of the Rings, published. It has been accepted and is almost finished. Hammond...
1950
5 February 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#275
Carpenter #123
Tolkien had "dumped" the manuscript of The Lord of the Rings on Milton Waldman just as he was going on holiday, and Tolkien felt bad burdening...
24 February 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#276
Carpenter #124
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin, mentioning various topics but chief among them is The Lord of the Rings. Stranded without a publisher, and the work now...
6 March 1950
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2748
Stanley Unwin replies to #Letter124. He says that publishing The Silmarillion and The Lord of the Rings together would be very difficult. He asks if the...
10 March 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#277
Carpenter #125
Tolkien compares his two great stories the War of the Ring and the War of the Jewels and remarks on the Farmer Giles sales figures.
10 March 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#293
Carpenter #126
Unwin wants to break up Tolkien's "monstrous Saga", and Tolkien hopes Unwin will let the project go, so Tolkien can publish The Lord of t...
2 April 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2750
Tolkien writes to Stanley Unwin asking for a decision about The Silmarillion and The Lord of the Rings. He remarks that he will be busy with examination...
3 April 1950
Sir Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1525
Sir Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien on the matter of how to publish the Lord of the Rings. He does not see a possibility for one volume and gives some f...
14 April 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#294
Carpenter #127
Relations between Tolkien and Allen & Unwin had begun to become strained as Tolkien felt that A&U were not open to publishing his work as he would have ...
13 November 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
#2821
Writing to Stanley Unwin, Tolkien opens with apologies for not replying to two previous letters, both kind according to Tolkien. He remarks that the Cha...
1951
1951 (late)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
#152
Carpenter #131
Tolkien wrote this letter to Milton Waldman. Tolkien wanted his publisher, George Allen & Unwin, to publish both The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarill...
1954
25 September 1954
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#402
Carpenter #154
Tolkien responds to Mrs. Mitchison's kind letter and her generous and perceptive review of The Lord of the Rings. He discusses the complexity of th...
late September 1954?
J.R.R. Tolkien to Peter Hastings
#401
Carpenter #153
Tolkien responds to a reader's extensive analysis and questions about The Lord of the Rings. Amongst many topics, Tolkien discusses the unique fate...
1955
29 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Naomi Mitchison
#477
Carpenter #164
Tolkien describes a challenging and overwhelming period with an excessive workload, emphasizing the strain it has taken. He mentions booksellers, includ...
22 August 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to John Roberts
#208
Tolkien writes to John Roberts, apologising for the delay in publishing the third volume of The Lord of the Rings. He describes the third volume, regret...
22 October 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Mitchell
#212
Tolkien writes to Mr. Mitchell, about reading The Lord of the Rings and extends offer to sign his 3 volumes. He hopes that his success with the The Lord...
10 November 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Lord Halsbury
#522
Carpenter #174
Tolkien expresses gratitude for Lord Halsbury's approval and interest in his work. He discusses the surprising success of The Lord of the Rings and...
1956
14 January 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Thompson
#529
Carpenter #180
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a reader's encouraging letter. He writes that his work began during World War I and evolved into the invention of l...
?Late January 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Notes on W. H. Auden’s review of The Return of the King
#532
Carpenter #183
These are Tolkien's notes based on a review by W.H. Auden. He argues that his story is not an allegory of his personal experiences but a depiction ...
8 March 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to William Galbraith
#235
Among many subjects Tolkien discusses the unfinished index for The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion. Numenor, echoes of past tales. 'Tunes&ap...
16 April 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to H [Humphrey]. Cotton Minchin
#243
Carpenter #187
Tolkien describes himself as a philologist, and sometime calligrapher. An index of Elvish names was intended to be produced, noting that his 'speci...
16 April 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to H [Humphrey]. Cotton Minchin
#1528
The letter opens with Tolkien's acknowledgment of Minchin's suggestions and his note that he is now more than ever under enormous pressure to ...
?Late June or July 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Houghton Mifflin Co.
#531
Carpenter #182
Tolkien hoped that he would be able to publish parts of The Silmarillion After the success of The Lord of the Rings he hoped it may be reconsidered.
22 September 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss J. Burn
#2898
Writing to a Miss J. Burn, Tolkien remarks that he could not explain how The Lord of the Rings "grew" unless he did so as an "autobiograp...
5 November 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Britten
#259
Tolkien answers some questions, on The Silmarillion and on Elvish sleep among more general queries. It is plainly suggested that Elves do 'sleep&ap...
8 December 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. [Anthony] Roberts
#281
Tolkien replies to a fan letter with pleasure that Mr. Roberts is enjoying The Lord of the Rings. He makes a brief mention of his First and Second Age s...
1957
3 February 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1457
Carpenter #195a
Tolkien says that work is still getting in the way of him spending any time on The Silmarillion. He is having trouble with Professor Wrenn in America, a...
1 March 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1458
Carpenter #195b
Tolkien apologizes to Rayner for being exhausted at their previous meeting and says he is recovering from a very stressful school term. He says that he ...
9 May 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#559
Carpenter #197
Tolkien expresses gratitude for a letter from GA&U and contemplates the idea of retiring in July and reflects on the financial and health implications. ...
10 August 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mary Newall
#2776
Tolkien replies to Mary Newall, (d.1998), and discusses his health, thanks her for her kind words and his plans for The Silmarillion. He writes "To...
11 September 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher and Faith Tolkien
#577
Carpenter #202
Tolkien describes his meeting with Sir Stanley Unwin and Mr Ackerman, they decided upon a policy to deal with film rights.
12 December 1957
Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1673
Rayner agrees with Tolkien that future translations should adopt the names as Tolkien prefers. Rayner says that Allen & Unwin can have an index of names...
19 December 1957
J.R.R. Tolkien to Patricia
#329
Tolkien discusses his hectic schedule, translations of the recently published (in 3 volumes) Lord of the Rings. Tolkien states that he is "on leave...
1958
29 May 1958
Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
#1680
Writing to Tolkien, Rayner says that he will seriously consider adding the index into the Lord of the Rings. Possibly to coincide with the proposed publ...
14 October 1958
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rhona Beare
#585
Carpenter #212
Tolkien describes the creation of the World and then of the Dwarves by Aulë in draft that was never sent to Beare.
20 October 1958
J.R.R. Tolkien to Elizabeth Jones and J. Taylor
#339
Tolkien sends his apologies not replying earlier, he describes himself as "a much harassed man".
1959
9 December 1959
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#598
Carpenter #222
Tolkien writes to Rayner about his translations of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and Pearl.
1960
Between 1960 and 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dorothy Wood
#451
Tolkien wrote a series of twelve letters to his cousin Dorothy Wood.
13 January 1960
Tolkien's Secretary to Elizabeth Jones
#453
The letter contains a printed statement about The Lord of the Rings and a typed paragraph stating that he is "working on a new book which I hope wi...
9 February 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1470
Carpenter #222a
Tolkien informs Rayner that by way of looking at the "Scunthorpe lists". He has also continued work on The Silmarillion, and can say that it i...
12 February 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1471
Carpenter #222b
Tolkien tells Rayner that he is getting to his work on the translations of Sir Gawain and Pearl, in addition to The Silmarillion, however the arrival of...
29 February 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1472
Carpenter #222c
Tolkien asks Rayner's thoughts on publishing small or minor bits having to do with the Ring Cycle. He says that he is being asked for these, and th...
4 April 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
#1474
Carpenter #222e
Tolkien tells Jane Neave that he will send her "a long instalment", from The Silmarillion, for reference.
31 July 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#599
Carpenter #223
Tolkien's publishing commitments are catching up with him. Chronology reproduced a slightly longer selection of the letter than what appears in Let...
30 August 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Lewis Hersh
#1067
Letter concerns various points in The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.
1961
5 January 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs E. C. Ossendrijver
#465
Carpenter #227
In the unpublished part of the letter Tolkien discusses the translation of The Lord of the Rings into Dutch, and in the published part Númenor, C.S. Le...
3 July 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Gilmore
#471
Tolkien explains that there will not be a sequel to The Lord of the Rings, with observations on the end of stories and that the fourth age is not "...
29 December 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
#494
Tolkien replies to Perry, explaining his delay as be is not able to remember addresses and that his papers are not in order. Tolkien goes on to discuss ...
1962
12 March 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Sutton
#1843
Tolkien writes in reply to a letter asking for details of what Tolkien is writing. He apologises for the short delay as he is busy writing what Mr. Sutt...
16 April 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miriam Hirsch
#495
Tolkien writes expressing his sorrow at his delay in replying. He pleads be excused as he is still "very busy and have little time to spare if I am...
18 July 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
#613
Carpenter #238
Writing to his aunt, Jane Neave, Tolkien says that fan mail keeps arriving, some of it is interesting, and he enjoys the thanks and warm wishes from fan...
21 July 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#1477
Carpenter #239a
Tolkien informs Rayner Unwin that he is now "in residence" until 2 October and will return on 10 October as he is once again involved in term....
7 November 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Sheppard
#499
Tolkien sends a short letter with his pleasure that Mr. Sheppard enjoys his writing.
1963
13 February 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Hooton
#698
Tolkien is 'deep in snow'
17 February 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Julie Cape
#502
Tolkien writes to Julie Cape thanking her for her letter of appreciation. She has enjoyed The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien hopes that sh...
30 May 1963
Tolkien's Secretary to Justin Arundale
#2366
A standard reply to Justin, thanking him for his support and mentioning The Silmarillion.
20 September 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Colonel Worskett
#622
Carpenter #247
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings, comparisons to The Hobbit, some discussion of the material being worked on for The Silmarillion, and a lengt...
29 November 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. L.F.
#2793
Tolkien replies to a Mrs. L.F. who had written to remark on her enjoyment of the Lord of the Rings. He is pleased to receive her letter and remarks that...
c. late 1963 - January 1964
Justin Arundale to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2287
Justin Arundale, a young fan of The Lord of the Rings, writes to Tolkien asking if he has any information of when The Silmarillion will be published. To...
6 December 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs E. C. Ossendrijver
#513
A brief letter stating that The Silmarillion is not yet complete, but that The Adventures of Tom Bombadil should be coming out soon in America. He compl...
23 December 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#628
Carpenter #253
It had been agreed that the new paperback (see no. 248) should be given the title Tree and Leaf. Rayner Unwin asked if Tolkien could suggest a suitable ...
1964
18 January 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Justin Arundale
#542
Tolkien replies to Justin Arundale aged ten explaining that the Silmarillion will not be published for some time yet. He closes by asking him to tell hi...
28 February 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to James Heaf
#544
Tolkien answers a question about what Hal saw on the North Moors, remarking that "Perhaps it was a troll...". He also recommends Heaf to read ...
5 March 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Eileen Elgar
#164
Carpenter #255
Eileen Elgar wrote to Tolkien asking for information about The Silmarillion. Included in his reply was a nine page manuscript, with genealogical tree il...
30 May 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Peel
#2088
Tolkien apologizes for having trouble reading Mr Peel's signature and was pleased that he liked his work. He states that The Silmarillion will not ...
8 July 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to James Heaf
#545
Tolkien now regrets that The Silmarillion might not be in print for some time to come: "I still have a professional task to clear away before I can...
10 July 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to E. Rasdall
#2564
Tolkien discusses the publication of Tree and Leaf and discusses his progress on The Silmarillion.
16 July 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Bretherton
#631
Carpenter #257
Tolkien wrote that he usually typed letters because of his handwriting (which can be very difficult to read at times). He talks about the invention of h...
28 August 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to E. Rasdall
#567
Tolkien replies, thanking Mr. E. Rasdall for his interest in his writing and returns the copy of The Adventures of Tom Bombadil to be signed. Tolkien ex...
1965
Mid to late 1960s
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Blashka
#815
Joy Hill replies to a letter in which she is described as "his chief scribe". The Silmarillion is not yet ready for publication and no date is...
22 February 1965
Rayner Unwin to Ed Meskys
#782
Rayner Unwin replies to a letter from Ed Meskys saying the Silmarillion will not be published for many years but that Sir Gawain and Pearl could be publ...
20 May 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#644
Carpenter #270
Tolkien had sent Unwin the typescript of his new story Smith of Wootton Major, but could not find any other suitable stories to make a sufficiently larg...
12 September 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Dick Plotz
#650
Carpenter #276
Tolkien writes about The Silmarillion, the Númenórean legends, and his friendship with C.S. Lewis. He discusses the formation of the Tolkien Society o...
12 September 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
#651
Carpenter #277
In August 1965 Ballantine Books produced the first 'authorized' American paperback of The Hobbit, without incorporating Tolkien's revisio...
18 December 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Clyde S. Kilby
#655
Carpenter #282
Professor Kilby, of Wheaton College, Illinois, had met Tolkien while visiting Oxford in 1964. He now offered to return to England and help Tolkien in an...
1966
23 February 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to W.H. Auden
#657
Carpenter #284
Auden told Tolkien that he had agreed to write a short book about him, in collaboration with Peter H. Salus, for a series entitled Christian Perspective...
21 March 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to George Sayer
#185
Tolkien sends a letter to his friend George Sayer firstly expressing his sorrow about Sayers wife Moira. She has been very ill of late. He had hoped tha...
8 April 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Roger Verhulst
#744
Tolkien replies to Roger Verhulst's 2nd March letter about the US paperback rights to Essays Presented to Charles Williams, and he reiterates his o...
27 April 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to A. E. Couchman
#659
Carpenter #286
Tolkien discusses 'Gods'.
1 June 1966
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr [Royston F.] Porthouse
#766
Secretarial letter to Mr Porthouse wirth mention that Tolkien's next book will be The Silmarillion.
29 August 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Eileen Elgar
#2928
Tolkien writes to Mrs Elgar about his and her health, a cruise that he is taking with Edith and his lack of progress on The Silmarillion.
31 August 1966
Rayner Unwin to J. McCarthy
#2934
Mr McCarthy is thanked for his letter, an apology is given for Tolkien not replying which is blamed on pressures of finishing The Silmarillion.
11 October 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Clyde S. Kilby
#792
Carpenter #289b
Tolkien discusses his and Edith's Mediterranean cruise and the bust of him at the English Faculty in Oxford.
28 November 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Clyde S. Kilby
#900
Tolkien writes to Kilby making mention that he is pleased that Kilby has finally received the correct medication and says that he is yet to continue wit...
8 December 1966
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Marsh
#472
Tolkien writes to James S. Marsh and sends him three copies of his autograph to stick in his books.
1967
23 May 1967
Rayner Unwin to Mr Hooton
#754
Rayner writes to Mr Hooton about The Silmarillion. He describes Tolkien as "a perfectionist" and does not expect publication for a few years. ...
16 June 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Hooton
#755
Tolkien writes to Mr Hooton about progress on The Silmarillion, which has been delayed due to the complications presented in the United States from the ...
August 1967
J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Rang
#670
Carpenter #297
At the top, Tolkien has written: 'Some reflections in preparing an answer to a letter from one Mr Rang about investigations into my nomenclature. I...
1968
11 April 1968
Colin Smythe to J.R.R. Tolkien
#2418
Colin Smythe wrote back to Tolkien, saying he will look for Winter's Tales For Children but hopes Tolkien could provide a new poem, and also expres...
4 June 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to Colin Smythe
#361
Tolkien thinks perhaps he might find a poem about "Westernesse" that would suit. He is leaving Oxford, so Smythe should write to Allen & Unwin...
11 October 1968
J.R. Kennard to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
#2760
J.R. Kennard writes to GA&U asking for information on the publication of Tolkien's The Silmarillion.
15 October 1968
Joy Hill to J.R. Kennard
#2758
Joy Hill stated that GA&U do not know when The Silmarillion will be published.
15 October 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to J.R. Kennard
#2759
Tolkien adds his own response to the Letter sent by Joy Hill on the same day. It appears that Joy was staying with Tolkien when both of these letters we...
16 October 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to Niall Hoskin
#738
Tolkien writes about his languages and talks about Westron or the Common Speech.
8 November 1968
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr. Brown
#808
A secretarial letter with a PS from Tolkien who explains that he is too busy writing The Silmarillion to answer questions.
1969
7 March 1969
Colin Smythe to Joy Hill
#2838
Colin writes that he understands and would much prefer to see The Silmarillion in print. Suggests that A & U might do a limited signed edition.
10 March 1969
Joy Hill to Colin Smythe
#367
Joy Hill (misunderstanding) Smythe's comments states that she doubts that A&U would allow Smythe to produce a signed limited edition.
12 March 1969
Colin Smythe to Joy Hill
#2839
Colin corrects the misunderstanding from her last letter. A&U, not Smythe should do a limited signed edition.
25 November 1969
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#686
Carpenter #313
Tolkien wishes he had an 'elven' grammar and vocabulary.
Late 1969 or January 1970
Joy Hill to Mike O'Brien
#2027
This letter was published in the letter column of the January 1970 issue (Volume Two, Number One) of Carandaith, the journal of the Australian Tolkien S...
1970
1 January 1970
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael George Tolkien
#387
Carpenter #315
Tolkien discusses his problems with progressing the Silmarillion.
1971
16 March 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Tony Davison
#1664
Tolkien is very busy working on the Silmarillion but is very glad that his books have brought Davison enjoyment.
18 March 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to William Cater
#417
Carpenter #322
Tolkien writes about progress on the Silmarillion.
7 April 1971
Tolkien's Secretary to Randy Trimmer
#822
Tolkien sends a standard form reply to Mr. Trimmer, apologising for not being able to write anything personal as he is working on The Silmarillion.
14 June 1971
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr. Ballard
#291
Tolkien apologises for not sending a personal reply and explains that he is to busy with the Silmarillion to answer personal questions.
1st July 1971
Joy Hill to Jan Bosmans
#1051
Joy Hill tries to dissuade a student from writing his thesis about The Lord of the Rings due to the immense amount of unpublished material he doesn&apos...
17 July 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Roger Lancelyn Green
#420
Carpenter #325
Tolkien writes about Aman and what happens to mortals, such as Frodo, when they go there. Tolkien talks about Lewis's use of "Numinor" an...
17 July 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to A.I. Mackay
#1081
Tolkien thanks Mr Mackay for a chart and information that he sent him about Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.
8 November 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
#1508
Carpenter #330a
Tolkien writes to Michael about how little time he has to work on The Silmarillion and about any prospects of feature films, he believes that no films w...
1972
18 May 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Salmon
#429
Carpenter #335
Tolkien explains that he does not have time to comment on his works.
11 July 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
#433
Carpenter #340
Tolkien writes to Christopher about Edith, her headstone, his thoughts of her as Lúthien and a visit to GA&U's headquarters.
October 3, 1972
Ballantine Books to John David Cofield
#2028
A photocopy/form letter on Ballantine Books letterhead sent in response to a fan letter. The letter thanks David for writing and for his enthusiasm, and...
23 November 1972
J.R.R. Tolkien to Donald Glover
#1514
Carpenter #343a
Tolkien declines to discuss C.S. Lewis and states that he is still trying to work on The Silmarillion.
1973
Jan 4, 1973
Joy Hill to Phil Rose
#1042
Joy Hill responds to a fan query about The Silmarillion, saying that for death duty (tax) reasons, it cannot be published while he is alive.
17 January 1973
Tolkien's secretary to Mr. N.J. Kyle
#313
Tolkien's secretary writing on behalf of Tolkien, states that he is very busy and cannot write letters currently.
24 January 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Sterling Lanier
#835
Carpenter #347b
Tolkien writes, thanking Lanier for the book The War for the Lot by Lanier himself. Tolkien says that he found it quite original, and frightening. Tolki...
29 March 1973
Tolkien's Secretary to Mr. Giusti
#1800
Tolkien writes to a reader giving an update on his next book, The Silmarillion "which is already written but in need of revision".
16 April 1973
Joy Hill to Mrs. L.F.
#2794
Joy Hill writes to Mrs. L.F. about The Silmarillion remarking that it is a long way from publication. She says that Tolkien is now an old man and has no...
7 May 1973
Tolkien's Secretary to J. Bryce Milligan
#841
Reply of thanks. Mention of The Silmarillion being "far from complete".
4 August 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Lord Halsbury
#380
Carpenter #353
Tolkien writes about his current views on Galadriel which changed frequently through out his life.
1977
22 August 1977
Colin Robb (GA&U) to Bookseller
#2470
Colin Robb sends some booksellers a dummy Silmarillion to assist with pre-orders.
1978
11 January 1978
Christopher Tolkien to Francisco Perrúa
#76
Christopher Tolkien replies to Francisco Perrúa, the Spanish translator of his fathers work, 6 months after he received a letter from him about his wor...
20th October, 1978
Rayner Unwin to Bernie Zuber
#781
Rayner Unwin thanks Bernie Zuber and the membership of the World Science Fiction Convention for awarding J.R.R. Tolkien with the "Gandalf Award&quo...
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